The Last of Us Part II Remastered Review

The Last of Us Part II Remastered

Release: January 19, 2024
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Developer: Naughty Dog
Genre: PlayStation 5 Reviews, PS5 ReviewsReviews
PEGI: 18
Comments:

 

Comment

It’s only been a few short years since I first had the opportunity to review The Last of Us Part II, a masterpiece in my mind with VERY little to complain about, so when they decided to remaster this I was thinking, do we really need this already? Some may argue no, but they would be wrong, Naughty Dog brought the absolute polish and buffed out any imperfections in this masterclass of Humanity, Morality, Brutality and Revenge.

The Last of Us Part II Remastered not only builds upon the excellence of the original release but introduces several new features and enhancements that further enrich the gaming experience. Naughty Dog’s commitment to perfection is evident in every aspect of this remastered edition.

Graphically, the improvements are immediately apparent. The game runs at a higher resolution and benefits from improved textures and lighting effects, taking full advantage of the capabilities of next-gen hardware. Character models are incredibly detailed, showcasing subtle facial expressions and emotions with astonishing realism. Environments are more immersive than ever, with added environmental details that contribute to the overall sense of a world ravaged by a post-apocalyptic pandemic.

One of the standout new features is the inclusion of ray tracing technology. This addition enhances reflections, shadows, and overall lighting in a way that adds a new layer of realism to the game. Whether you’re navigating through a darkened building with a flashlight or witnessing the sunlight filtering through dense foliage, the ray tracing technology elevates the visual fidelity to a level that was previously unattainable.

The game’s performance has also seen a significant boost. Running at a consistent and smooth frame rate, The Last of Us Part II Remastered ensures a seamless and responsive gaming experience. This is particularly notable during intense combat sequences, where precision and timing are crucial. The enhanced performance contributes to the overall fluidity of the gameplay, making it even more engaging and immersive.

In terms of gameplay mechanics, Naughty Dog has refined and expanded upon the original design. The combat system feels more dynamic, with improved animations and responsive controls. The enhanced AI of both enemies and allies adds an extra layer of challenge, requiring players to adapt to evolving situations strategically. New animations and transitions contribute to a more seamless and polished feel during combat, making every encounter a cinematic and immersive experience.

Accessibility options have also received attention in this remastered edition. Naughty Dog has introduced additional features to cater to a broader range of players. These include customizable controls, improved subtitle options, and settings to enhance visibility for players with different needs. The commitment to accessibility ensures that The Last of Us Part II Remastered can be enjoyed by a more diverse audience.

While the core narrative remains unchanged, Naughty Dog has introduced additional content that enhances the overall storytelling experience. Whether it’s new collectibles, hidden details, or expanded lore, the developers have added elements that provide more depth to the rich narrative tapestry of The Last of Us Part II. This encourages players who have already experienced the game to revisit it and discover new facets of the story.

The audio experience has also been refined, with 3D audio support providing a more immersive soundstage. From the subtle creaking of floorboards to the distant echoes of approaching enemies, the enhanced audio adds an extra layer of tension and realism. Gustavo Santaolalla’s evocative score is further complemented by the spatial audio technology, creating a truly enveloping auditory experience.

The game is also jammed packed with bonus features, commentary, behind the scenes, free play guitar mode. But there is also some lost levels that are in various states of completion but show you a little more of what they were planning originally for the game. But the biggest feature is the No Return Mode, a rogue-like horde mode with tons of customizations, playable characters and so much more. Easily the highlight for those of us who have already played the game before.

In summary, The Last of Us Part II Remastered goes beyond a mere graphical upgrade, introducing a host of new features and improvements that redefine the gaming experience. Naughty Dog’s attention to detail, commitment to performance, and dedication to accessibility make this remastered edition a standout achievement. Whether you’re a returning fan or a newcomer, the enhanced visuals, refined gameplay, and additional content make this version a definitive and must-play iteration of Ellie’s unforgettable journey.

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