The latest free game from the Epic Games Store is Death Stranding, the debut game from the studio of "Metal Gear Solid" creator Hideo Kojima Players have until May 25 to claim their copy The game is yours forever If you've ever wanted to check out Kojima's trippy, supernatural package delivery sim, now is the perfect time

Important note: This giveaway applies to the original version of Death Stranding, released in 2019, and does not apply to the redesigned Director's Cut, released in 2021, which has additional features and story content However, the Director's Cut version is also available at a discount; it is discounted from $40 to $24 until June 15

The original "Death Stranding" usually sells for $30 at the Epic Games Store, so getting it for free is quite a bargain The game stars Norman Reedus as Sam Bridges, a package delivery man in a post-apocalyptic America ravaged by paranormal activity It's a beautiful open-world game, but it's also quirky in a way that is typical of Kojima's work, dividing critics and players alike

I haven't had a chance to check it out myself, but I've heard complaints that the plot is an esoteric mess of sci-fi and just another walking sim On the other hand, I also hear that the story is compelling, if you can suspend your disbelief a bit, and that the gameplay parallels these plot points in such a way that it can't help but leave a deep impression on the player In short, tastes may differ

To get the PC version of Death Stranding for free, visit the Epic Games Store Scroll down to the Free Games section of the app or website Select "Death Stranding," click "Get," sign in with your account, and you're done

After May 25, Death Stranding will be replaced by another free mystery title This is part of a promotion that Epic Games is running for the Epic Mega Sale, offering one free game every Thursday for a week until June 15

"Death Stranding" is definitely worth checking out, and this giveaway campaign couldn't come at a better time Kojima revealed at the December Game Awards that "Death Stranding 2" is in the works