Completing the Harmonica Puzzle in Death Stranding 2

Select Language:

In Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, much of the gameplay unfolds in silence. Sam often finds himself alone, accompanied only by his thoughts, the wind’s whispers, and occasional comments from Dollman. Outside the Chiral Network, the only music you’ll hear is during specific scripted moments.

However, it doesn’t have to stay that way. Sam can also create his own music using a familiar instrument—the harmonica. This item returns from the original game and lets Sam play his own tunes, albeit in a less polished manner. Here’s a guide on how to obtain the harmonica and what it can do.

When Can You Access the Harmonica?

Unlocking the harmonica is straightforward. You might even have it without realizing it. Most players stumble upon it while searching for the music player from the Musician prepper. Although he’s a key figure, he doesn’t actually hand over the harmonica.

In fact, you don’t receive it in a typical fashion; it simply appears in Sam’s inventory. The harmonica is automatically added to his headwear options after arriving in Australia post-Main Order No. 8. Dollman may mention this after some walking, especially during breaks, but since the early sections of Australia have numerous BTs, many players overlook it.

Don’t worry—you won’t have to forgo wearing a hat to use the harmonica.

How to Use the Harmonica

Using the harmonica is as easy as in the first game. Simply access Sam’s headwear during gameplay and equip it. You can do this without removing any other headwear items.

Important to Note: You can only equip the harmonica from the menu during gameplay and not from sinks in the Magellan or Private Rooms.

Once it’s equipped, the only way to play it is by resting. While resting, press the right side of the touchpad to hear Sam play. This action replaces his ability to shout out to signs or other characters while taking a break.

Each time you press the button, Sam plays a short tune—not a curated playlist, but genuine music that comes straight from the heart.

What Does the Harmonica Do?

So, what’s the harmonica’s purpose? In the original game, it provided music in moments when the soundtrack was otherwise sparse. With Death Stranding 2 offering a music player for custom playlists, the harmonica might seem less essential now.

In many ways, it is redundant—especially for long travels outside the Chiral Network. However, it still serves one important function that the music player lacks.

Lou loves the harmonica. Playing it while resting helps lift Lou’s spirits, earning you a few likes. Additionally, since Lou enjoys the harmonica’s sound, you’ll receive even more likes. So, if Lou needs cheering up during a tough journey, take out that harmonica and play a few tunes!