The Last of Us Part II is recognized for its bold storytelling, advanced gameplay, and graphical innovations, as well as its emotional impact and divisive narrative decisions. Here’s a thorough review, factual insights, major easter eggs, and PC system requirements[1][2][3][4][5].
Detailed Review
- Story and Themes: The sequel picks up four years after the original, handing the protagonist role to an older, hardened Ellie. The narrative is intense and complex, centering on cycles of revenge, violence, trauma, and empathy. It explores controversial themes through brutal plot twists—most iconically Joel’s death and the story’s shift to Abby’s perspective. These choices challenge player comfort, forcing empathy for both sides and redefining concepts of villainy and redemption[1][3][4].
- Gameplay Advances: Part II features overhauled AI, improved stealth and combat mechanics, expanded weaponry (firearms, melee, flamethrower), and creative scenarios like dog encounters, sky bridges, and underwater exploration. The antagonists’ behavior responds dynamically, enhancing realism and intensity throughout missions[4].
- Visuals & Presentation: The environments, from post-apocalyptic Seattle to Santa Barbara, are visually stunning, with intricate details, dynamic weather, and atmospheric lighting. Memorable set pieces include the Seraphite Island inferno and snow-bound opening sequence[5].
- Horror Elements: New infected types like Shamblers and the terrifying Rat King boss intensify the survival horror. Human enemies (Seraphites, Wolves) are unique and menacing, contributing to a tense and immersive world[4].
- Replay Value: The blend of story, exploration, collectibles, and alternate perspectives provides 25–30 hours of gameplay with significant replayability for those seeking to uncover every detail[3][5].
Key Facts
- Developer: Naughty Dog[1]
- Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 (Remastered), PC (Remastered)[2][6]
- Genre: Action-adventure, survival horror, single-player narrative[1][3]
- Multiple Playable Characters: Ellie and Abby[1][4]
Notable Easter Eggs
- PlayStation Tributes: Numerous nods to Sony franchises:
- PS3 consoles with Jak and Daxter and Uncharted 2 copies in several homes—set pre-2013, due to the series lore[7][8][9].
- PS Vita cameo: Two scenes show Whitney playing Hotline Miami on her handheld[9].
- Giraffe Stuffed Toy: Recalls a beloved moment from the first game and gives Ellie a journal entry[7][9].
- Historical Callbacks:
- Sam’s Toy Robot from Part I is discoverable in Ellie’s room[8].
- Joel’s iconic watch and broken gun are key items for Ellie.[7]
- Sarah’s photo: Prominently displayed at Joel’s house beside newer memories[7].
- Inside Jokes:
- Crash Bandicoot reference with Eugene’s tape “Smash Brandi’s Cootch”[7][8].
- Dawn of the Wolf movie nod returns from Part I[7].
System Requirements (PC Remastered)
Here's a summary for The Last of Us Part II Remastered targets[10][6]:
| Setting | CPU | GPU | RAM | Storage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum | i3-8100 / Ryzen 3 1300X | GTX 1650 / RX 5500 XT | 16 GB | 150 GB SSD | 720p@30fps, Low |
| Recommended | i5-8600 / Ryzen 5 3600 | RTX 3060 / RX 5700 | 16 GB | 150 GB SSD | 1080p@60fps, High |
- OS: Windows 10/11 64-bit (v1909 or higher)[10][6]
- Shader Model: 6.0[10]
- Additional: Fast SSD and 8GB+ video RAM strongly advised for smooth performance[10][6].
Summary
The Last of Us Part II sets new benchmarks for visual fidelity and emotional storytelling, challenging players with its bold narrative choices and immersive environments. Collectibles and playful Sony references enrich the experience for completionists, while PC players will need high specs for optimal results[1][3][5][8][10][6].
Sources
[1] The Last of Us Part 2 Review - IGN https://www.ign.com/articles/the-last-of-us-part-2-review
[2] Review : The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered : A Dark Return https://seasonedgaming.com/2024/01/24/review-the-last-of-us-part-2-remastered-a-dark-return/
[3] The Last of Us Part II review - GodisaGeek.com https://www.godisageek.com/reviews/the-last-of-us-part-ii-review/
[4] Let's Revisit The Last of Us vs. The Last of Us: Part II (Review/Rant) https://www.reddit.com/r/thelastofus/comments/1h2zmys/lets_revisit_the_last_of_us_vs_the_last_of_us/
[5] 'The Last Of Us Part 2' Review: A Beautiful, Terrible Sequel - Forbes https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2020/11/15/the-last-of-us-part-2-review-a-beautiful-terrible-sequel/
[6] The Last of Us Part II Remastered System Requirements https://gamesystemrequirements.com/game/the-last-of-us-part-ii
[7] 18 The Last of Us 2 Easter eggs and where to find them https://www.gamesradar.com/the-last-of-us-2-easter-eggs/
[8] The Last of Us 2 Easter Eggs - PowerPyx https://www.powerpyx.com/the-last-of-us-2-easter-eggs/
[9] The Last of Us 2: All Easter Eggs | Push Square https://www.pushsquare.com/guides/the-last-of-us-2-all-easter-eggs
[10] The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered system requirements https://www.systemrequirementslab.com/cyri/requirements/the-last-of-us-part-ii-remastered/26403
[11] The Last of Us Part II Plays a Dark, Cynical Trick - Vulture https://www.vulture.com/article/the-last-of-us-part-2-review.html
[12] The Last of Us Part 2 system requirements - Can You RUN It https://www.systemrequirementslab.com/cyri/requirements/the-last-of-us-part-2/17140
0 Comments