Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Developer: Naughty Dog
Genre: Action/Adventure and Survival Horror
Scriptwriters: Neil Druckmann and Halley Gross
Released: June 19 2020
Certificate: 18
Console: PlayStation 4
The Last Of Us II
The Last of Us II finally arrived to save the gaming world of 2020.
Back in 2013, one of the greatest years of gaming, Naughty Dog gave us one of the best games of the century; The Last of Us. If you wish to read a review on the first game, please click here. A game with a vivid and emotional storyline and out of this world graphics, this series really has got it all. After years of patiently waiting after the release of the first game and the DLC titled ‘Left Behind,’ Naughty Dog finally gave the fans what they wanted in 2020.
Part II is one of the fastest-selling PlayStation 4 games with over four million units sold within its first weekend of release. It’s clear to see why.
Description
First things first, I must warn you that spoilers of the gameplay are ahead!
Firstly, the Last of Us II is a game played from a third-person perspective which allows players to fight enemies and act out the storyline hands-on.
The game begins with Joel confessing to Tommy his involvement with the Fireflies. At the end of the first game, we see that Joel prevented the fireflies from using Ellie to create their cure for the deadly outbreak. Rightly so, as she would’ve died. Of course, Ellie does not know this.
Whilst on patrol, Tommy and Joel rescue Abby, a stranger who is in danger from an infected horde. They return to a safe point, run by Abby’s group. It’s important to note that these are previous members of the fireflies that have joined to form a new militia group. Tommy and Joel are in grave danger. Abby’s father was the surgeon that was supposed to operate on Ellie, and obviously, Joel murdered him. Abby is now set to avenge her father’s death.
In the meantime, Ellie and Dina are on their way to support the brothers. Unfortunately, Abby and the new militia group take revenge and brutally beat Joel to death. It is here we are robbed of any further Joel and Ellie content. After sneaking in, Ellie witnesses and swears she will get her revenge for Joel’s murder.
Ellie eventually learns the truth of the firefly’s situation; the question that haunts her is if she can ever forgive Joel. An emotional and conflicted Ellie now struggles to come to terms with the father-like figure’s death. Nevertheless, the gameplay switches to Tommy, Dina, and Ellie. The aim is to avenge Joel’s death and catch the militia group, but the sole target is Abby.
A narrative that’s full of surprises, this game is certainly one to add to your list to play, it’s well worth it.
Analysis
It’s no secret that Naughty Dog is the Masters of Graphics. The homeland of the Uncharted series which also features highly detailed extras, the Last of Us II goes further than ever before. The game’s design is visually perfect. A notable mention is the way they construct the snow. Visually it looks so inviting but the sound is incredibly accurate. Immersive gameplay makes a great one. Alongside this, Ellie and Joel’s characters have been developed with age, trauma, and experience. The game has done a great job to make this as accurate as possible.
Furthermore, it’s clear that Naughty Dog are doing what they do best, making us attached to the main characters. Becoming immersed with the storyline and of course creating a connection with the protagonists is what they are experts in. However, with this game, I was disappointed. After playing the first one, I had become attached to Joel and Ellie, I certainly did have my emotions played with. However, it was well worth it when they were eventually happy. This game, however, took the Joel experience from us. This was a real shame, I wanted to see the two’s relationship continue but I would’ve also liked to have been apart of it. Nevertheless, the game still makes multiple references to Joel, the guitar scenes hold a special place in my heart.
My second critique of the game that many others have had, is the Abby gameplay. I think Abby is an interesting character who adds great depth to the narrative. However, I did not enjoy switching between the two characters. After all, I am trying to kill her when I’m controlling Ellie. I personally would’ve preferred to play Tommy, to see his thoughts, considering he’d just lost his brother, it would’ve been interesting to see how this would play out with the narrative. I personally feel the story was disappointing for many players; however, this game is still brilliant.
Despite the critiques, I am of the opinion that The Last of Us II is a game with an unforgettable narrative that’s addictive and refreshing. Although this wasn’t what I was expecting, this game was certainly worth the wait.
Summary
The Last of Us is a game series that will never be outdone. To conclude, it is a very powerful and moving narrative told through several lenses. If you are to only play one game series this year, make it this one, because it’s truly worth it.
Notes
Target Audience: 18+
Content: Blood and gore, intense violence, nudity, sexual content, strong language and use of drugs.
Recommendation?: Yes
Overall Rating: 8/10 – Very Good
Further Reading
For more information on the Last Of Us II, click here.
