The Last of Us Part II
Developed by Naughty Dog
Published by Sony Interactive Entertainment
Initially Released June 19, 2020
Available for Playstation 4, Playstation 5
Genre: Action/Adventure
Personal Playtime: 27 hours 12 minutes
Environments / Graphics – 9.5
This is a truly gorgeous game, somewhat ironically for such grim and dark subject matter. However, I believe that only serves to highlight the beauty inherent in this world when you are afforded the opportunity to take it in. The character models and animation is an achievement that really pushed expectations for AAA games industry-wide. The ultra-realism helps to keep you grounded in the world and invested in the plight of the characters. There are so many small touches, like the way the models interact with doors or rope, that I really appreciate. Things like that may be easy to overlook as you play, but collectively, they add up to go the extra mile when making you feel as though you the people – and the places and situations they inhabit – are actually real and deserving of your care and respect.
Music / Sound – 9
At the heart of the Last of Us is the terror of a post-apocalyptic world, and that is exemplified by the sound design. The mixing of the ambience and sound creates a stark contrast between the loneliness of trudging through the exposed open spaces and the tight claustrophobia of the interior environments. Whether you are listening to the pitter patter of rain or straining your ears to hear the approach of potential enemies, it all serves to keep you locked in for the experience the developers are trying to deliver. Music is also an important touchstone for both the players and characters. And as such, the soundtrack created by Gustavo Santaolalla and Mac Quayle does not disappoint. The solitary strums of guitar accentuate the despondency of an abandoned city. At the same time, the broader full compositions give punch and gravitas to the frantic encounters with men and monsters alike.
Narrative / Performance – 10
The discourse on the narrative of this game was ferocious. I suppose it is something to be expected with a story that does set out to create intense emotion in its audience. It was certainly polarizing, but I found it incredibly impactful. This is the type of thing that I live for, so if your mileage may vary if you prefer games where the plot takes a backseat. However, if you are looking for a story that will make you examine how you view the world around you, you need look no further than the Last of Us Part 2. The emotions are raw, and the psychology of the characters is nuanced and harshly human. The performance of the entire cast is magnificent, a real testament to the care and dedication of everyone involved. Laura Bailey, Ashley Johnson, and Troy Baker let it all hang out in their voice and motion capture performances. Whether you love or hate what they did with the continuation of the story after its critically acclaimed predecessor, I would recommend you experience it for yourself. That being said, a good chunk of the impact rides on the narrative continuity from the first game. If you haven’t played it before, they provide context for the events that unfold. I would still recommend playing the first game before going to this one. I’m usually pretty okay with jumping into a game series, but as there is only a single game before this – and it comes in at a fairly reasonable play time of about 20 hours including the fantastic DLC – this is a situation where I think the extra commitment pays big dividends.
Gameplay / Mechanics – 9
Many games keep us invested with dream fulfillment or power fantasy, making us feel the strength and courage of its characters. This is not one of those games. In the Last of Us, you are vulnerable. This game gives you things to be afraid of. This is very much a game of stealth and cunning rather than run-and-gun or hack-and-slash. Some people lack the patience or inclination to sit in high grass and wait for a guard to walk past 3 times. Sometimes it can get tiresome or dull. However, if you enjoy the lay-and-wait stealth style or deliberate planning, then you will enjoy working your way through these environments. And once you’ve settled into the character’s shoes, it can be incredibly immersive. The guns feel good, and the melee combat feels visceral and dangerous. The crafting rewards you with impactful supplies and tools, but it’s light enough not to steal focus or overstay its welcome. The Last of US gameplay excels if you are looking for a game to test your foresight and attention to detail without resorting to simply being obtuse. The horror elements sometimes take a back seat, compared to its predecessor, but when it ramps up, it reliably hits the mark well. This game makes excellent use of subtlety, and that makes the crescendo it builds to ring all the more impactful. The gameplay of this game can sometimes be nearly as polarizing as its story. But if you give it a try, and get into the stride of the experience, you will probably enjoy what it is offering.
The Last of Us Part II
- Graphics – 9.5
- Sound – 9
- Narrative – 10
- Gameplay – 9
Overall: 9.5
Should you dive into this game? As I said, I advise you to try the first one before. This game asks you to be emotionally invested, and playing Part I helps with that significantly. If this description sounds appealing to you, then you should definitely try out Part I. The initial remaster can be easily found, and the newer Part I remake is even more so. If you have played the first, then the second is an easy recommendation. I hope this has helped you make your own decision. This game is a special one for me, personally. It’s a great example of why I love games.
Game Overview
Five years after their dangerous journey across the post-pandemic United States, Ellie and Joel have settled down in Jackson, Wyoming. Living amongst a thriving community of survivors has allowed them peace and stability, despite the constant threat of the infected and other, more desperate survivors. When a violent event disrupts that peace, Ellie embarks on a relentless journey to carry out justice and find closure. As she hunts those responsible one by one, she is confronted with the devastating physical and emotional repercussions of her actions.
A Complex and Emotional Story
Experience the escalating moral conflicts created by Ellie’s relentless pursuit of vengeance. The cycle of violence left in her wake will challenge your notions of right versus wrong, good versus evil, and hero versus villain.
A Beautiful Yet Dangerous World
Set out on Ellie’s journey, taking her from the peaceful mountains and forests of Jackson to the lush, overgrown ruins of greater Seattle. Encounter new survivor groups, unfamiliar and treacherous environments, and terrifying evolutions of the infected. Brought to life by the latest iteration of the Naughty Dog engine, the deadly characters and world are more realistic and meticulously detailed than ever before.
Tense and Desperate Action-Survival Gameplay
New and evolved gameplay systems deliver upon the life-or-death stakes of Ellie’s journey through the hostile world. Feel her desperate struggle for survival through improved features such as high-intensity melee combat, fluid movement, and dynamic stealth. A broad variety of weapons, crafting items, skills, and updates allows you to personalize Ellie’s capabilities to your play style.
