Death Stranding 2: On The Beach – How To Unlock Fast Travel

When Does Fast Travel Unlock?

First off, temper your expectations, Kojima-style. Fast travel isn’t available early on because, naturally, you’ve got some “earn-it” hoops to jump through. Specifically, you’ll gain this ability after completing Order 12 (also known as “Investigate the Unusual Tar Currents Near F1”) during Episode 3. If you’re wondering if that sounds important or if it involves a boss, the answer is both. Because of course in Kojima’s universe, fast travel isn’t something you just “attain” effortlessly; it’s something you fight a giant mechanical BT beast for.

Defeating this monstrosity is that pivotal narrative moment when things shift the tiniest bit in your favor. Once back in your Private Room, you’ll awaken to a notification that says fast travel is finally available. If you’re imagining a celebration or confetti, don’t. But hey, at least you can now warp across mapped areas like a semi-convenient courier.

How Does Fast Travel Work?

Once unlocked, fast travel involves an item called The Magellan (not thrillingly named, but it does the job). Keep in mind, though, the function comes with annoying-but-logical catches because this is still Death Stranding.

Here’s how it works:

1. Using Your Map

Open your map, and at the far right corner of the screen, you’ll find the fast travel menu. Select the “chart route” button and, voilà, enter your destination. Easy? Sure. But there’s a juicy twist…

1. Blue Icons Signal Safe Locations

You can ONLY fast travel to safe spots you’ve already been to. No going rogue or zooming into areas you’ve never explored. Basically, you still have to put in work schlepping to new territories manually. The game works hard ensuring you appreciate the environmental detail Kojima crafted.

1. Press “Embark” and Skip the Hike

Click the Embark button, accept the disclaimer about the “Magellan Evaluation,” and brace for traveling stats that may or may not stress you out.

Caveats of Fast Travel (Because of Course There Are Some)

Here’s where things get extra spicy (or mildly annoying, depending on your tolerance for quirks):

• Cargo May Penalize You

Any cargo tied to an active delivery order will trigger the frustrating “Magellan Evaluation.” This means you’re evaluated (and not kindly!) regardless of the pristine condition of your delivery or swiftness of delivery. If you’re a perfectionist who cares deeply about ratings, well… you’ll resent this.

• Cutscene Rest Hiccups

Occasionally, fast travel via the Magellan won’t unlock immediate access post-mission. Resting in your private room again after a cutscene or handling another smaller order first might solve it. Would it be Death Stranding without an unnecessary layer of convoluted programming? Of course not.

• New Areas Stay Off-Limits

We’ve mentioned this before, but it bears repeating. Fast travel isn’t a license for laziness. You must first hoof it to an area for it to show up as a fast-travel destination. Kojima definitely wouldn’t approve if you just “warped” your way past those cinematic vistas.

Making Fast Travel Work Better (Tips)

• Plan your routes early on to hit key locations before you unlock fast travel. This makes post-unlock teleporting much more practical.
• Stockpile supplies near safe zones. Getting to remote areas mid-game still means you’ll walk, but having essentials closer eases the pain of returning territory.
• Use Order 26 (later unlocked) cleverly with other tools like hot springs. Strategically linking these spaces benefits traversals massively.

Final Thoughts on Death Stranding 2’s Fast Travel System

Fast travel exists, but don’t expect it to hand you a free ride through Kojima’s operatic symphony of environmental adversity. Methodical storytelling and constant curveballs remain core components of Death Stranding 2. If anything, the occasional convenience of Magellan travel feels earned amid miles of rugged exploration. Think of fast travel as a “reward” doled out for trekking through rain-soaked ridges filled with hostile BTs and broken terrain.

Wouldn’t it have been kind of Hideo to give players a no-catch version of fast travel? Sure. But then again, would it really feel like Death Stranding? Probs not.

Now that you know how to use fast travel in Death Stranding 2… enjoy warping responsibly. Or don’t. But be ready to explain that botched Magellan Evaluation.

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