The Last of Us fans have been eagerly waiting for the sequel to the award-winning video game for seven years, and it is finally here. The Last of Us Part II, developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment for the PlayStation 4, was released on June 19, 2020, and has already become one of the most talked-about games of the year.
The original game, released in 2013, was praised for its emotional storytelling, engaging characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. It followed the journey of Joel, a smuggler, and Ellie, a young girl immune to a fungal infection that has turned most of humanity into mindless beasts, as they traveled across a post-apocalyptic United States in search of a cure.
The Last of Us Part II continues the story five years after the events of the first game, with Ellie as the main protagonist. The game is set in a world filled with infected and warring factions, where resources are scarce and survival is a daily struggle. Ellie and Joel have settled down in Jackson, Wyoming, along with a community of survivors, but their peaceful existence is shattered by a tragic event that sets Ellie on a quest for revenge.
The game’s narrative is complex and explores themes of love, loss, trauma, and morality. It is a story about the consequences of violence, both physical and emotional, and the toll it takes on the people who inflict and suffer it. The game is not afraid to ask difficult questions or to challenge players’ expectations and beliefs. It is a mature and thought-provoking story that stays with you long after you have finished playing.
The Last of Us Part II also introduces new and improved gameplay mechanics, such as stealth, movement, and combat. Ellie is a more agile and versatile character than Joel, and she can use a variety of weapons and tactics to overcome her enemies. The game’s AI is also more advanced, with enemies that can communicate with each other, flank and ambush the player, and adapt to their tactics.
The game’s graphics and sound design are also top-notch, with stunning environments, realistic character models, and a haunting soundtrack that adds to the game’s atmosphere. The game is a feast for the senses, and every detail, from the way the grass moves in the wind to the way the raindrops hit Ellie’s face, adds to the immersion and realism of the experience.
The game has received critical acclaim, with many reviewers praising its storytelling, gameplay, visuals, and acting. It currently has a Metacritic score of 95 out of 100, making it one of the highest-rated games of all time. The game has also broken records, with over 4 million copies sold within the first three days of release, making it the fastest-selling PlayStation 4 exclusive ever.
However, the game has also been the subject of controversy, with some fans criticizing the game’s story and themes, and others taking issue with the portrayal of certain characters and the inclusion of LGBTQ+ themes. The game’s director, Neil Druckmann, has addressed the criticism, stating that the game was always intended to be a challenging and divisive experience, and that it was important to tell the story he and his team wanted to tell.
In conclusion, The Last of Us Part II is a remarkable achievement in video game storytelling and gameplay. It is a game that pushes boundaries, challenges players, and stays true to its vision. It is a game that will be remembered for years to come, and that will inspire future generations of game developers. Whether you are a fan of the first game or a newcomer to the series, The Last of Us Part II is an experience not to be missed.
