The arrival of The Last of Us Part 2, just five months before the PlayStation 5 launch, left some yearning for it to be part of the PS5 launch lineup. However, despite missing that opportunity, the game demonstrated the enduring capabilities of the PlayStation 4. Now, nearly four years later, Naughty Dog has finally released the much-anticipated PS5 version of TLoU Part 2. The extended wait may seem perplexing, but in retrospect, it appears that Naughty Dog might have had a strategic plan in place.
Since the release of Part 2, The Last of Us series has gained momentum, with HBO’s TV adaptation attracting a new audience. This surge in popularity might have paved the way for Naughty Dog to capitalize on the momentum with remastered versions of both games.
While some might compare The Last of Us to the perpetual releases of Skyrim, The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered serves as an ideal entry point for newcomers and those eager to relive the emotionally charged story with some additional features.
Uncovering Untold Chapters
Set several years after the events of TLoU, Part 2 finds Ellie and Joel in Jackson, their relationship strained after an altercation with the militant faction W.L.F. It’s challenging to delve into the story without spoilers, but the remastered version introduces new elements for returning players.
One notable addition is the Lost Levels, consisting of three cut sequences restored as bonus content. While these levels are unfinished, they offer insight into the game’s development process, showcasing the “building blocks” of game design. Players can explore a cut Jackson party sequence, escape from a sewer, and engage in a boar hunt, providing a unique perspective on what might have been.
No Return
In addition to the Lost Levels, TLoU 2 Remastered introduces a new roguelike mode called No Return. This survival mode allows players to choose a character from the main cast, each with a distinct playstyle, inventory, and traits. The objective is to navigate through randomly generated missions and defeat the boss.
The encounters vary in type, with different locations, enemy factions, mods, victory conditions, and rewards. The mode adds a layer of challenge by limiting weapons and resources, with permanent death as a key element. While No Return provides a refreshing break from the campaign, its appeal may diminish over time, potentially benefitting from an online component.
Graphical Enhancements
The remastered version enhances visuals, with Fidelity mode allowing the game to run at 4K. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support and framerate improvements contribute to a smoother overall experience. The finer details in facial animations and gruesome Infected details stand out, especially in intense sequences.
DualSense support is introduced, with haptic feedback enhancing immersion during movements and adaptive triggers, adding responsiveness to actions like bow draws. The haptics plays a crucial role in the new speech-to-talk accessibility feature, providing both a touch prompt and heightened dialogue impact through controller vibrations.
The Definitive Edition
The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered, with its graphical improvements and additional content, emerges as the definitive edition of this emotional journey. The story retains its impact, and the enhanced visuals intensify the experience. While No Return provides a welcome diversion, its appeal may wane over time, and the Lost Levels offer brief behind-the-scenes insights, catering more to series enthusiasts.
For those yet to experience The Last of Us Part 2, Remastered on the PS5 provides the optimal opportunity to immerse oneself in the game’s best version. Prepare for the heartache, now presented in visually enhanced glory.
The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered
Pros
- Captivating story
- Visual improvements with added character detail
- Inclusion of speech-to-talk accessibility
- No Return offers a break from the campaign
- Lost Levels provides extra insight for fans
Cons
- No Return can become repetitive
- Lost Levels content is relatively brief
A review copy of the game was provided by PlayStation, and the review was conducted on the PS5.
