In Death Stranding 2, you traverse a hauntingly beautiful yet perilous post-apocalyptic world. However, it's not complete solitude. Despite the absence of multiplayer lobbies or visible co-op partners, the game fosters a sense of shared experience through its online elements.

One of the most human and effective tools of this connection is the ability to leave signs — messages for other players. They may be inconspicuous, but they are incredibly significant and, when placed correctly, can influence gameplay, mood, and even the pace of exploration.

What are Signs in Death Stranding 2 and Why Are They Important?

Signs in Death Stranding 2 are visual messages that a player can leave on almost any flat surface. They are part of the Social Strand System — Kojima's signature idea that blurs the lines between solo play and community. These signs act as silent advice, cautious warnings, or moments of encouragement scattered around the world by other players.

Sometimes, you may encounter signs right before a dangerous area or after a grueling journey through a BT-infested territory. Some warn of threats like MULE or cliffs, while others simply say "Keep going!" or "You’re almost there." In a game where loneliness is a constant presence, these brief messages can provide helpful hints or support — much like in the Dark Souls series.

How to Use Signs in Death Stranding 2

Placing signs in Death Stranding 2 is quite easy. To leave the sign, stop on a relatively flat surface, hold the down button on the D-Pad to open the signs menu. This will bring up a radial menu with several categories — including Communication, Guide Info, and Fun.

Use the right stick to select a category, and the L1/R1 buttons to scroll through available images. Once you find one that fits the situation or mood, press X. The sign will appear right where Sam is standing.

No resources are required to place signs. There are no strict limits on their number, although the game encourages you not to clutter the area. Each sign contains your player ID and a portrait headline, so others will see who left the message — a silent handshake between travelers.

Types of Signs in Death Stranding 2 and Their Purpose

Signs have both practical and emotional value in the game and serve as a form of indirect communication between players.

• Some signs point to useful places: a safe shelter, a hidden ladder, valuable equipment.
• Others warn of dangers — enemy patrols, rivers that seem shallow but are deep, or cliffs leading to death.
• There are also those that act as emotional support: “You got this,” “Not much farther,” or “Nice job.”

Humorous and expressive signs deserve special mention. A game that delves so deeply into themes of isolation and loss benefits from a touch of humor or absurdity. Sometimes, these small details are the most memorable during a journey through a particular region.

All Signs in Death Stranding 2

The game offers a wide variety of signs you can use — all of which are divided into specific categories. So if you need to express a particular emotion or leave a message on a specific topic, you'll definitely find a sign that conveys your thought.

Communication Signs in Death Stranding

Fun Signs in Death Stranding

Online Aid Request Signs in Death Stranding

Guide Info Signs in Death Stranding

Symbol Signs in Death Stranding