Death Stranding: How to Unlock the Speed Skeleton
Death Stranding’s vast, rugged landscapes demand efficient traversal, especially when timefall storms or BTs threaten your cargo. Enter the Speed Skeleton—an exoskeleton that transforms Sam from a weary courier into a sprinting powerhouse. This guide breaks down how to unlock it, maximize its benefits, and upgrade it for late-game dominance.
How to Unlock the Speed Skeleton
Step 1: Progress to Episode 3
After reaching the Central Region, focus on connecting the Junk Dealer (west of Lake Knot City). Complete his initial SAM Orders to build trust.
Step 2: Accept Order No. 33
- Objective: Deliver a fragile Chiral Hourglass to the Chiral Artist’s Studio (1,500m west).
- Challenges:
- The cargo is extremely fragile—avoid slopes, rivers, and BT zones.
- Use a floating carrier to stabilize the load or equip stabilizer legs for rocky terrain.
Step 3: Claim Your Reward
After successful delivery, the Junk Dealer rewards you with the Speed Skeleton (Level 1).
Pro Tip: Complete this order during fair weather to avoid timefall damage.
Speed Skeleton: Stats, Mechanics & Upgrades
Core Benefits
- Movement Speed: +30% (Level 1) to +50% (Level 3).
- Sprint Burst: Hold 🔼 (PS) / ❎ (Xbox) /
Shift(PC) to sprint faster, draining battery. - Cargo Capacity: Attach 4 Small/Light items to hip slots.
Battery Management
- Drains faster when sprinting or carrying heavy loads.
- Recharge at safe houses, waystations, or portable generators.
Upgrading to Level 2/3
- Level 2: Reach 4-star connection with the Junk Dealer.
- Level 3: Achieve 5-star connection via premium deliveries.
Fast-Track Reputation: Deliver Lost Cargo and complete “Urgent” orders.
Speed Skeleton vs. Other Exoskeletons
| Exoskeleton | Best For | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Speed, evasion | High battery drain |
| Power | Heavy cargo (300kg+) | Sluggish movement |
| All-Terrain | Snow/rock traversal | No speed boost |
Strategic Pairing: Combine the Speed Skeleton with Power Gloves for climbing or Stabilizer Legs for balance.
Why the Speed Skeleton is Essential
- Escape Threats: Outrun BTs and MULEs in open areas.
- Timed Deliveries: Hit “S-Rank” on premium orders with speed boosts.
- Exploration: Rapidly scout the map for Memory Chips or preppers.
Troubleshooting Order No. 33
- Cargo Broken?: Reload your save or craft a Container Repair Spray.
- BTs Blocking the Path?: Equip a Bola Gun to disable MULEs silently.
The Speed Skeleton isn’t just a tool—it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re evading ghosts in the mountains or racing against timefall, mastering its mechanics ensures you’ll keep on keeping on… faster.
Mastering the Speed Skeleton is just the start—dive deeper into Death Stranding with our guides: unlock the Power Skeleton for heavy cargo hauls, navigate the pivotal Bridget Beach interaction to avoid the bad ending, and create custom signs to guide fellow Porters. Whether you’re optimizing loadouts, story choices, or community tools, these resources ensure you’re prepared for every challenge in the chiral network.
Stuck on Order 33? Share your stories in the comments, and let fellow Porters lend a hand!
