Death Stranding Standard Orders Still Worth It After Five Stars

In Death Stranding, the core gameplay loop revolves around delivering packages across a fractured United Cities of America. As Sam Porter Bridges, players navigate treacherous terrains, battle BTs (Beached Things), and outsmart MULEs (Marauding Unstable Lunatics) to reconnect isolated settlements to the Chiral Network. A crucial aspect of this gameplay loop is the completion of Standard Orders, which are delivery requests issued by various facilities and preppers. Initially, these orders are the primary means of establishing connections with these locations and increasing their connection level, represented by stars. However, once a facility reaches the maximum five-star connection level, the question arises: are Standard Orders still worth pursuing? This article delves into the benefits and drawbacks of undertaking Standard Orders after achieving five stars with a facility, helping players make informed decisions about their post-game delivery strategies.

The Allure of Standard Orders: A Recap

Before diving into the post-five-star analysis, it's essential to understand the significance of Standard Orders in the core gameplay experience. These orders serve multiple purposes:

• Establishing Connections: Standard Orders are the primary means of increasing connection levels with facilities and preppers. By successfully completing deliveries, players earn likes, which contribute to raising the connection level. Higher connection levels unlock various benefits, including access to new equipment, resources, and story content.
• Resource Acquisition: Standard Orders often reward players with essential resources such as metals, ceramics, chemicals, and chiral crystals. These resources are crucial for constructing structures, crafting equipment, and maintaining the player's infrastructure network.
• Skill Development: Navigating the challenging landscapes of Death Stranding requires players to master various skills, such as cargo management, balance, and combat. Standard Orders provide ample opportunities to hone these skills and experiment with different strategies.
• Exploration and Discovery: Many Standard Orders require players to venture into uncharted territories, encouraging exploration and discovery. This can lead to the uncovering of hidden locations, resources, and even new preppers.
• Unlocking Blueprints and Upgrades: Completing certain Standard Orders unlocks valuable blueprints for new equipment, vehicles, and structures. These blueprints can significantly enhance the player's capabilities and streamline their delivery operations.

The Question of Value: Post-Five-Star Deliveries

Once a facility reaches the coveted five-star connection level, the incentive to complete Standard Orders shifts. The primary reward of increasing connection level is no longer a factor, leading many players to question the continued value of these deliveries. However, there are still several compelling reasons to consider undertaking Standard Orders even after achieving maximum connection:

1. Resource Replenishment: A Lifeline for Infrastructure

Maintaining the intricate network of roads, bridges, and generators that players construct in Death Stranding requires a constant influx of resources. Standard Orders often provide substantial quantities of essential materials such as metals, ceramics, and chemicals. These resources can be directly utilized to repair damaged structures or contribute to the construction of new facilities. In the long run, strategically selecting Standard Orders that offer desired resources can be a more efficient way to replenish supplies compared to scavenging or relying solely on resource requests from facilities. Resource management is critical in Death Stranding, and Standard Orders offer a sustainable way to ensure your infrastructure remains in top condition. By focusing on orders that offer the specific materials you need, you can proactively maintain your network and avoid costly repairs down the line. This is particularly important in the late game when your network is extensive and requires significant upkeep. Remember, a well-maintained infrastructure not only benefits you but also other players who traverse the same world.

2. Refining Skills and Strategies: Mastering the Art of Delivery

Even after completing the main storyline and achieving five-star connections with all facilities, Death Stranding continues to present opportunities for players to refine their skills and experiment with new strategies. Standard Orders, particularly those with challenging conditions or long distances, can serve as excellent training grounds for mastering the art of delivery. Players can test different vehicle configurations, cargo arrangements, and traversal techniques to optimize their efficiency and minimize delivery times. Furthermore, undertaking Standard Orders in hazardous environments, such as BT-infested areas or mountainous terrains, can help players hone their combat skills and develop effective strategies for navigating treacherous landscapes. The more you practice, the better you become at anticipating challenges and adapting your approach. This mastery translates into a more rewarding and enjoyable gameplay experience, allowing you to tackle even the most daunting deliveries with confidence. Think of each Standard Order as a puzzle to be solved, a challenge to be overcome. By embracing the opportunity to learn and improve, you'll not only become a more skilled porter but also a more resourceful and adaptable player.

3. The Completionist's Drive: Achieving 100% Satisfaction

For players driven by completionism, the allure of achieving a 100% completion rate in Death Stranding can be a strong motivator to continue undertaking Standard Orders even after five-starring all facilities. The game tracks various statistics, including the number of Standard Orders completed, the number of Premium Deliveries achieved with an S rank, and the total number of likes received. Completing all available Standard Orders and striving for perfect scores in Premium Deliveries can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor for players seeking to fully master the game. This pursuit of perfection can also lead to the discovery of hidden content and unlockables, further enhancing the sense of accomplishment. The journey to 100% completion is a testament to dedication and skill, a demonstration of your commitment to mastering every aspect of Death Stranding. It's a chance to push your limits, explore every corner of the world, and leave your mark on the landscape. The satisfaction of achieving this goal is immense, knowing that you've truly conquered the challenges of Death Stranding.

4. The Joy of Connection: Helping Fellow Porters

Death Stranding emphasizes the importance of connection, not only within the game's narrative but also through its unique asynchronous multiplayer mechanics. Completing Standard Orders contributes to the shared world by increasing the visibility of structures, improving road conditions, and potentially leaving behind useful supplies for other players. Furthermore, delivering lost cargo or providing assistance to other porters encountered in the field can foster a sense of camaraderie and contribute to the overall positive community experience. Even after achieving five-star connections, the act of helping others remains a rewarding aspect of Death Stranding. The interconnected nature of the game means that your actions can have a ripple effect, benefiting players you may never even meet. This sense of shared purpose is a powerful motivator, a reminder that you're not just playing a game but also contributing to a living, breathing world. By embracing the spirit of collaboration and mutual support, you can enhance the experience for yourself and others, creating a more vibrant and connected community.

5. Premium Deliveries: The Ultimate Test of Skill

While regular Standard Orders may lose some appeal after five-starring a facility, Premium Deliveries offer a more challenging and rewarding alternative. These orders impose stricter time limits, cargo condition requirements, and overall delivery difficulty. Achieving an S rank on a Premium Delivery requires careful planning, efficient execution, and a mastery of the game's mechanics. Premium Deliveries provide a significant boost to likes earned, making them an efficient way to increase your Porter Grade and unlock cosmetic rewards. Furthermore, the challenge of completing these deliveries can be a compelling motivator for experienced players seeking to push their skills to the limit. Think of Premium Deliveries as the ultimate test of your abilities as a porter. They demand precision, efficiency, and a deep understanding of the game's mechanics. The satisfaction of achieving an S rank on a particularly challenging Premium Delivery is immense, a testament to your dedication and mastery. By embracing these challenges, you can continue to hone your skills, earn valuable rewards, and push yourself to become the ultimate porter.

The Drawbacks: Time Investment and Diminishing Returns

Despite the potential benefits, it's crucial to acknowledge the drawbacks of undertaking Standard Orders after five-starring a facility. The primary concern is the time investment required for each delivery. While some orders can be completed relatively quickly, others may involve long treks across challenging terrain, requiring significant time and effort. If the rewards for a Standard Order, such as resources or likes, do not justify the time investment, players may find it more efficient to focus on other activities, such as completing story missions, building structures, or exploring new areas. Furthermore, the rewards for Standard Orders can diminish over time, particularly if the player has already accumulated a large stockpile of resources. In such cases, the benefits of undertaking additional deliveries may not outweigh the costs. It's essential to carefully evaluate the rewards and requirements of each Standard Order before accepting it, ensuring that it aligns with your overall goals and priorities. Time is a valuable resource in Death Stranding, and it's important to use it wisely. Don't be afraid to prioritize activities that offer the greatest return on your investment, whether it's completing story missions, building infrastructure, or simply exploring the world. The key is to find a balance that allows you to progress towards your goals while still enjoying the journey.

Making the Decision: A Balanced Approach

The decision of whether or not to undertake Standard Orders after five-starring a facility ultimately depends on the individual player's goals and preferences. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, as the value of these deliveries can vary depending on the player's current needs, resources, and playstyle. Players seeking to replenish resources, refine their skills, or achieve 100% completion may find Standard Orders to be a worthwhile endeavor. On the other hand, players who prioritize efficiency and time management may choose to focus on other activities that offer a greater return on investment. A balanced approach is often the most effective strategy. This involves carefully evaluating the rewards and requirements of each Standard Order, prioritizing those that align with your goals, and avoiding those that offer minimal benefit. It also means being flexible and adaptable, adjusting your strategy as your needs and priorities evolve. The beauty of Death Stranding lies in its freedom and flexibility, allowing you to play the game in your own way and at your own pace. Experiment with different approaches, explore different options, and discover what works best for you. Ultimately, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey and find fulfillment in the unique and captivating world of Death Stranding.

Conclusion: The Enduring Value of Connection

In conclusion, while the primary incentive of increasing connection levels may diminish after five-starring a facility in Death Stranding, Standard Orders can still offer value in various ways. Resource replenishment, skill development, completionism, helping other players, and the challenge of Premium Deliveries are all compelling reasons to continue undertaking these deliveries. However, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against the time investment and diminishing returns. By adopting a balanced approach and carefully evaluating each Standard Order, players can make informed decisions about their post-game delivery strategies. Ultimately, the enduring value of Standard Orders lies in their contribution to the interconnected world of Death Stranding, fostering a sense of connection and shared purpose among players. The act of delivering packages, even after achieving maximum connection levels, remains a fundamental aspect of the game's core mechanics and continues to offer a rewarding experience for those who embrace the challenge. Death Stranding is a game about building connections, both literal and metaphorical. The bonds you forge with the world, its inhabitants, and other players are what truly make the experience special. By continuing to engage with Standard Orders, you not only strengthen these connections but also contribute to the ongoing evolution of the Death Stranding community.