In Death Stranding 2, stealth plays a crucial role in navigating hostile territories. Two of the most effective tools for avoiding direct confrontations are the
Tranq Sniper Rifle and the
Smoke Grenade. Whether you're trying to bypass enemy encounters or incapacitate foes silently, mastering these items can significantly enhance your gameplay.
This guide will walk you through
how to unlock both weapons, their best uses, and
step-by-step instructions on how to wield them effectively.
How to Unlock the Tranq Sniper Rifle & Smoke Grenade
To obtain these stealth tools, you must complete the
"Recover the Mementoes from the BT Area" mission at the
Lone Commander’s bunker. Here’s what you need to do:
Accept the Sub-Order – First, take on the "Deliver the Dismantled Rifle to the Lone Commander" side quest from the Government’s Base.Complete the Delivery – Finish this task to unlock the main mission.Retrieve the Mementoes – Enter the marked BT zone, collect the required items, and return them safely to the Lone Commander.Link the Bunker to the Chiral Network – Once done, the Lone Commander will connect his bunker, granting you access to the Tranq Sniper Rifle and Smoke Grenade.With these tools now available, you can equip them from your inventory whenever needed.
How to Use the Tranq Sniper Rifle
The
Tranq Sniper Rifle is a
non-lethal, long-range weapon designed to silently neutralize enemies without killing them.
Key Features:
- Fires tranquilizer rounds to incapacitate human targets.
- Equipped with a variable zoom scope for precise aiming.
- Loud when fired, so use it wisely to avoid alerting nearby foes.
How to Shoot:
Aim (L2) – Hold to look through the scope.Stabilize Your Shot (R1) – Hold to steady your aim and control breathing.Zoom (R3) – Adjust the scope magnification for better accuracy.Fire (R2) – Take the shot when ready.
Pro Tip: Since the rifle makes noise, try to eliminate isolated enemies first to avoid detection.
How to Use the Smoke Grenade
The Smoke Grenade is perfect for creating diversions, escaping enemies, or sneaking past Watchers—BTs with enhanced vision.
Key Features:
- Releases a thick smoke cloud, obscuring enemy vision.
- Causes human enemies to cough, making them easier to bypass.
- Muffled detonation sound keeps you undetected.
- Can be stored in a grenade pouch for quick access.
How to Throw It:
Open the Gear Wheel (Hold D-Pad) – Navigate to the throwables section.Select the Smoke Grenade (X) – Equip it.Aim (L2) – Position your throw.Toss (R2) – Release to deploy the smoke.
Best Uses:
- Escape tough situations by breaking line of sight.
- Distract enemies before moving past them.
- Avoid Watchers—unlike regular BTs, they can’t see through smoke.
Final Tips for Stealth Gameplay
- Combine both tools—use the Smoke Grenade for cover, then snipe enemies from a distance.
- Stay hidden—even with non-lethal weapons, alerting too many foes can lead to trouble.
- Upgrade your gear—check fabricators for enhanced versions of these items.
Mastering the Tranq Sniper Rifle and Smoke Grenade will make Death Stranding 2’s stealth sections far more manageable. Use them wisely, and you’ll navigate even the most dangerous areas undetected!
Platform(s): PlayStation 5 PS5
Genre(s): Action-adventure
Developer(s): Kojima Productions
Publisher(s): Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release date: June 26, 2025
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