Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding: Director’s Cut has officially made waves on Xbox this week, becoming one of the most-played games in the US thanks to its addition on Xbox Game Pass on January 21, 2026. In just under two weeks, the title skyrocketed from being the 501st most-played game to ranking 16th, proving that even unconventional AAA titles can find a dedicated audience when accessibility barriers are removed. For Xbox players who were previously unsure about the game’s unusual premise, now is the perfect opportunity to jump in.
Part of the reason for Death Stranding’s initial hesitancy among Xbox fans lies in its unique gameplay loop. Unlike standard action-adventure titles, the game focuses on delivering cargo across a post-apocalyptic America while navigating natural hazards, hostile human enemies, and supernatural “Timefall” rain that accelerates aging. Adding to the challenge is the Bridge Baby, a small infant that senses nearby eldritch threats, requiring players to carefully manage both their load and their responsibility for the baby. The combination of these unusual mechanics initially made the game feel risky for purchase at full price.
Technical issues also played a role in keeping some players away. Early Xbox PC and Xbox Ally versions suffered from a bug that could corrupt save files, further discouraging new players. However, the bug has since been patched, and with Game Pass offering the game for instant access, players can now safely experience Kojima’s vision without concern for lost progress. This has clearly contributed to the massive surge in engagement across the Xbox platform.
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The newfound popularity of Death Stranding also raises anticipation for its sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, which is expected to launch on PC first and may eventually make its way to Xbox. With more players now familiar with the franchise, there’s a strong chance that Microsoft and Kojima Productions will prioritize Xbox platforms for the follow-up to capture this growing audience.
In summary, Death Stranding’s rise on Xbox demonstrates the impact of accessibility and timing. By removing financial and technical barriers through Game Pass, Xbox has helped a polarizing but critically acclaimed title reach a wider audience. Whether you’re a fan of unique narrative-driven games or just curious about Kojima’s unusual take on post-apocalyptic adventure, now is the perfect time to explore Death Stranding. Equip yourself with an Xbox Gift Card to unlock extra content or other favorite titles, and experience one of the most intriguing games on the platform today.