The world was not ready for a game like The Last of Us when it was first released on the PS3 back in 2013. A story-driven experience, TLOU set itself apart from the glut of games with intelligent and pensive gameplay coupled with a beating heart that pushed the narrative forward. The game told the story of Joel Miller, a hard-nosed survivor in a post-apocalyptic world. The world has been run over by fungal spores that infect humans, turning them into mindless zombies. It’s in this world that we follow Joel and his journey toward redemption in the form of Ellie Williams. A girl that is immune to the fungal spores.
The game has been praised by critics and fans alike, with a remaster for the PS4 and a divisive and bland sequel following its success. But, for a first-timer, is it worth the asking price on the PlayStation 5? The answer is simple, have you played the game before? Then no. Do not spend your money on just a visual upgrade. On the other hand, if you have not experienced The Last of Us Part 1, then we suggest you fork over the cash because as far as the game is concerned, this is the best way to experience it.
The Last of Us Part 1: Visuals
Look, the game looks amazing on the PS5. There is no doubting that. The visuals are stunning and the upgrade is worth it on just that alone. The original game pushed the PS3 to the limit and even back then, the game looked really good but this new upgrade really pushes it towards a more modern AAA experience on the PS5. The character models all look spectacular and the various fungus zombies look incredibly creepy and disgusting. The animations have also been redone with smoother and more realistic movement. There’s a real weight to the characters and it helps draw you into the story.
The environmental design has also seen an upgrade with levels looking much better than before. The brick and concrete textures really pop out and are an immersive feature. The cutscenes have also been upgraded and give the more emotional scenes a real sense of gravitas.
The Last of Us Part 1: Story
We won’t rehash the entire story here as the game is almost 10 years old now but rest assured that it’s an emotional rollercoaster that grabs you right from the very beginning and refuses to let go up until the final scene. It’s a testament that Naughty Dog has crafted such a poignant and human story and completely dropped the ball with the atrocious sequel.
All you need to know about the game is that Joel is tasked with helping Ellie reach a rebel group known as the fireflies and shenanigans take place. Just go into the game blind, you won’t be disappointed. There’s a real grounded and human tale here, with themes of fatherhood, loss and grief really taking centre stage in a world that has collapsed.
The Last of Us Part 1: Gameplay
The gameplay on The Last of Us Part 1 remains largely the same with a few tweaks here and there that add to the already immersive gunplay. Back in 2013, when the original game was released, fans and critics raved about the AI system and how enemies would react to your actions. Well, that feature seems to have been dialled up in Part 1 with better enemy AI and pathing. As modern games go, this is one of the better implementations of smart enemies we’ve seen in a while.
The controls have also been rehauled, giving the game a smoother feel. One of the few things that were good about the sequel was the controls and Naughty Dog has ported that system over to Part 1 and it works really well.
The Last of Us Part 1: Verdict
Look, if you own the PS4 version of the game then there really is no need to pay for this upgrade. There’s nothing here for older players to return to and the fact that there is no multiplayer is also a downgrade. But, if you’ve only watched videos and never played the original or the Ps4 remaster, then please do go out and buy this game. There is no way you will be disappointed. It’s a game that you have to add to your collection. Even if you’re not a fan of story-driven, walky-talky games, do make an exception for The Last of Us Part 1 on the PS5.
We played a review copy of The Last of Us Part 1 on the PS5.
SKOAR! – 8/10
MOAR!
Developer: Naughty Dog
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Played on the PlayStation 5
The game is priced at ₹4,999.
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Andrew Lu
A geek and nerd at heart, I love comic books, horror movies and professional fighting. Yes, I know how insane that sounds. View Full Profile
