The Last of Us Part II
- June 19, 2020
- Naughty Dog
The Last of Us Part II is a truly worthy sequel to one of the greatest games ever made.
"The Last of Us Part II" is a narrative-driven survival game where Ellie and Joel, five years after their perilous journey, find a semblance of peace in a thriving community in Jackson, Wyoming. The Special Edition includes the full game, a mini art book, PSN avatars, and a dynamic theme. Amidst the ongoing threat of the infected and desperate survivors, players navigate a tumultuous journey of love, loss, and revenge.
Reviews
- A milestone in action video game storytelling, with masterful level design, combat, and interactive narrative that elevate the overall experience.
- Stunning graphics and sound that showcase the capabilities of the PS4, along with new gameplay mechanics that enhance stealth and combat.
- A bold and emotionally impactful narrative that provokes thought and discussion, making it a significant achievement in the gaming industry.
- The game can be emotionally exhausting and traumatizing, making it a challenging experience rather than a relaxing one.
- Some gameplay elements, such as companion AI and pacing issues with flashback sequences, detract from the overall experience.
- The level of violence may feel excessive and unjustified within the context of the narrative, leading to frustration for some players.
- gameplay5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 40 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by fluid movement and intense action, complemented by new mechanics that enhance stealth and combat. While it retains much of the original's structure, it introduces meaningful weapon upgrades and a variety of accessibility options, contributing to a rich narrative experience. Overall, it balances gratifying gameplay with a compelling story, making it a standout title of its generation.
“New gameplay mechanics that expand the stealth and combat gameplay, meaningful weapon upgrades pack a punch; also fun to watch in action.”
“The gameplay is more or less the same as the original, but with a few new features.”
“It’s a monumental effort in storytelling and a model for tales of vengeance and repercussions pushed forward by gratifying gameplay, and while not everything you do will sit right with you, the game never leads players to believe the result would be anything different.”
- story4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The game's story is hailed as a significant achievement in action video game storytelling, offering a compelling narrative of vengeance and consequences, though it may not resonate with everyone due to its divisive nature. While the gameplay enhances the experience, some players find issues with pacing and AI behavior, which can detract from the overall impact of the story. Despite these criticisms, the game is recognized for its bold narrative choices and impressive visual presentation.
“A milestone in action video game storytelling, and while the gameplay is not nearly as inspired, the experience as a whole is one of the best of the generation.”
“It’s a monumental effort in storytelling and a model for tales of vengeance and repercussions pushed forward by gratifying gameplay. While not everything you do will sit right with you, the game never leads players to believe the result would be anything different.”
“Takes bold risks with story and narrative, providing a wealth of accessibility options.”
“Incredibly divisive story and narrative-wise. Flashback sequences break the pacing of the game.”
“While not everything you do will sit right with you, the game never leads players to believe the result would be anything different.”
“The gameplay is not nearly as inspired, and the experience as a whole is one of the best of the generation.”
- graphics2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are consistently praised as outstanding, showcasing the capabilities of the PS4 with flawless visuals and immersive sound design. Players highlight the stunning visuals as a key element that enhances the overall gaming experience, contributing to the tension and engagement in gameplay.
“The graphics and sound are flawless and the pinnacle of what you can do with a PS4.”
“Astounding graphics and sound, amazing sense of tension throughout.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is described as emotionally exhausting and potentially traumatizing, indicating a profound impact on players' feelings and mental state.
“It's an emotionally exhausting and even traumatizing game.”
Critic Reviews
The Last of Us Part II Review
The Last of Us Part II combines powerful story telling with frantic gameplay and beautiful graphics. Turns out Part II was a good idea after all.
90%The Last of Us Part II Review
The Last of Us Part II's purposely bleak, pessimistic narrative spares no one, and offers a deeply engrossing tale of vengeance that grabs and never lets go. The production values, and overall attention to detail are insane, making one wonder what the developer will do when it gets its hands on the PlayStation 5. The gameplay and overall structure and pacing, while still not the thing that matters here, is thrice as good, making this a far more enjoyable experience, with a higher replay value from the original. Has the sequel surpassed it where it counts, though? Not really. The story lacks the finesse and unique "magic" of Naughty Dog's first post-apocalyptic adventure. Moreover, the severe change in tone won't be appreciated by everyone... although everyone should probably play it.
80%The Last of Us Part II Review
The Last of Us Part II has the great combat and stealth that fans have come to love but also a one-note storyline more obsessed with being dark than telling a well-written tale.
80%