Death Stranding 2: How to Reach The Inventor

In Death Stranding 2, the world is vast, dangerous, and full of hidden gems—one of the most rewarding being The Inventor. Tucked away on a lonely island surrounded by a deadly tar lake, this enigmatic figure offers unique gear and upgrades you won’t find anywhere else. But getting to him isn’t easy.

This guide breaks down the different ways to reach The Inventor, what you’ll need to prepare, and why the journey is well worth it.

Who is The Inventor?

The Inventor is a secluded prepper living on an island deep within a tar-covered region in the midwestern area of the map. He doesn’t show up on your radar at first, and you’ll need to get close enough for his shelter to register. Once connected to the Chiral Network, he provides some of the most useful tech for traversal and defense.

All the Ways to Reach Him

Getting to The Inventor isn’t straightforward. You’ll have to brave the terrain, use advanced equipment, or take advantage of risky shortcuts. Here are the three best options:

1. Walk Across the Tar

This is the most direct, but also the most dangerous route. The tar lake surrounding his island isn’t always fatal—but missteps can lead to sinking and losing your cargo. Use your scanner frequently to find solid ground within the tar. You’ll notice safe zones (usually where the scanner pulses don’t flicker red). Move slowly and keep your balance tight, especially if you’re carrying a heavy load.

This method requires no special gear, but it’s only recommended if you’re early in the game and want to access him as soon as possible.

2. Use the Monorail and Jump

If you’ve already reconnected major outposts in the region and built a monorail line, you can actually reach the Inventor by jumping off at just the right moment. As you pass over the tar lake, there’s a short window where the monorail runs directly above his island. If timed correctly, you can leap off and land close to or directly on the island.

This method is fast, but risky—falling too far off can damage cargo or put you in a difficult spot surrounded by tar. Still, it’s a thrilling shortcut for experienced players.

3. Launch Yourself with a Cargo Catapult

Once you unlock the Cargo Catapult (usually in the mid-game), reaching The Inventor becomes much safer and more fun. Set up a catapult at the edge of the tar lake, load yourself (and maybe some cargo) into the launcher, and blast across the lake. With a parachute equipped, you can glide onto the island with precision.

This route offers the safest and most controlled access to The Inventor, especially if you’ve already established a base nearby. You can even build fast travel or zipline return routes after landing.

What to Bring

Before heading to the island, make sure to pack:

• Climbing gear: Just in case you land off target and need to scale slopes.

• Extra PCCs: To build structures like ziplines, shelters, or transmitters for easier return trips.

• Light cargo: Heavy loads make you slower and riskier to maneuver—especially when walking on tar.

Why Visit The Inventor?

Connecting with The Inventor rewards you with powerful gear that can dramatically improve your gameplay experience. Most notably:

• A special hood that enhances swimming and tar resistance

• Stun-based defensive equipment

• Faster access to unique blueprints for building advanced tech

As you deepen your connection with him, more upgrades and tools become available. Even just delivering lost cargo to his shelter can start the relationship and unlock early rewards.

Best Method by Game Progress

Pro Tips

• If using the catapult, set up a zipline or transmitter on the island so you don’t need to repeat the whole trip again.

• The Inventor frequently has high-value lost cargo. Delivering it boosts your relationship quickly.

• Scan often when crossing the tar lake—it’s your best friend when footing is uncertain.

Final Thoughts

The Inventor is one of the most worthwhile NPCs to connect with in Death Stranding 2. His isolated location may seem intimidating at first, but once you reach him and unlock his gear, the rewards are more than worth the effort. Whether you’re trekking carefully across the tar or launching yourself in style, make sure you don’t miss this hidden gem on your journey through the shattered world.