We finally got our hands on The Last Of Us Part 2 Remastered for PC, and boy, has it been a ride. You know the drill—the original game dropped on PlayStation and stirred up a hornet’s nest of emotions, to say the least. Now, it’s gracing our beloved platform, and the big question is: does it hold up? And more importantly, is it worth your hard-earned cash? Let’s dive deep and find out.
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Finally on PC: A Welcome Return to a Harsh World
The Last Of Us Part 2 was, and still is, a behemoth of a game. Its narrative, while divisive, was undeniably powerful, and the gameplay was a masterclass in tension and brutality. So, when the whispers of a PC port started circulating, the hype train left the station at full speed. Now that it’s here, the first thing that hits you is just how damn good this game looks on a proper PC setup.
Seeing the Apocalypse in Glorious Detail
Let’s be real, one of the biggest draws of any PC release is the promise of visual fidelity that consoles sometimes can’t quite match. The remastered version doesn’t disappoint. Crank those settings up, and you’re in for a treat. We’re talking sharper textures, enhanced lighting, and all the little details that make the already grim world of The Last Of Us Part 2 even more immersive.
Playing at higher resolutions and frame rates truly elevates the experience. The environments, from the overgrown ruins of Seattle to the claustrophobic interiors, are brought to life with a level of detail that’s simply breathtaking. You’ll find yourself stopping just to admire the bleak beauty of it all, even amidst the constant threat of Clickers and trigger-happy humans.
Performance That Doesn’t Hold Back
Beyond just looking pretty, the PC version also boasts the kind of performance that PC gamers expect. Gone are the days of being locked to 30 or even 60 frames per second (depending on your hardware, of course). With the right rig, you can push well into the triple digits, making the already fluid gameplay feel even smoother and more responsive.
This is especially noticeable during the intense combat sequences where every millisecond counts. Plus, the inclusion of features like AMD FSR and Nvidia DLSS means that even if you don’t have the absolute top-of-the-line hardware, you can still enjoy a visually impressive and smooth experience by leveraging these upscaling technologies. It’s all about giving players options, and this remaster delivers on that front.
Diving Back into the Familiar, with a Few New Twists
For those of us who braved the emotional rollercoaster of the original release, the core gameplay remains largely the same—and that’s a good thing. The blend of tense stealth sections, brutal melee combat, and resource management is as engaging as ever. Sneaking through tall grass, crafting makeshift weapons, and making split-second decisions about whether to engage or evade still feel incredibly satisfying and nerve-wracking in equal measure.
A Narrative That Still Packs a Punch (and Divides)
Let’s not tiptoe around it—the story of The Last Of Us Part 2 is… well, it’s a lot. It’s a narrative that tackles complex themes of revenge, grief, and the cyclical nature of violence. It’s designed to make you uncomfortable and to challenge your perspectives, and it certainly succeeded in doing so. Whether you loved it or hated it, the story left a lasting impact. Revisiting it on PC doesn’t fundamentally change the narrative itself, but the enhanced presentation can certainly amplify the emotional weight of certain scenes. Prepare to feel things, folks—maybe even more intensely this time around.
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The Fresh Meat: “No Return” Mode
Now, for the exciting new stuff! The “No Return” mode is where this remaster really shines for those who have already experienced the main story. This roguelike survival mode is an absolute blast. You get to play as a variety of characters from the game, each with their own unique skill sets and playstyles. Imagine taking control of Joel again, or even some of the more… let’s say antagonistic characters, and facing off against randomized waves of enemies in different scenarios.
Each run in “No Return” feels different. You’ll have to adapt to the challenges thrown your way, scavenge for resources, and upgrade your abilities as you progress through different encounters. The mode is broken down into different paths, each culminating in a boss fight. It’s incredibly addictive and offers a fantastic way to engage with the game’s combat mechanics in a more isolated and replayable context. Trust me, you’ll lose hours to this mode trying out different characters and strategies. It’s the perfect way to blow off some steam after the emotional intensity of the main campaign.
Peeking Behind the Curtain: “Lost Levels”
Another interesting addition is the inclusion of “Lost Levels.” These are essentially unfinished development sequences that didn’t make it into the final game. While they might not be fully polished gameplay experiences, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind The Last Of Us Part 2. You get to see early iterations of environments, mechanics that were ultimately cut, and developer commentary that provides context and insights into the decisions made during development. It’s like getting a behind-the-scenes tour of a game that was already meticulously crafted. For hardcore fans and aspiring game developers, this is a real treat.
Accessibility: Gaming for Everyone
One aspect of The Last Of Us Part 2 that was widely praised was its commitment to accessibility, and the Remastered version on PC thankfully carries this over. The sheer number of customizable options to tailor the game to individual needs is truly impressive. From visual and auditory aids to fine-tuned control adjustments, Naughty Dog has gone above and beyond to ensure that as many people as possible can experience this game. It’s a testament to their dedication to inclusivity and sets a benchmark that other developers should strive for.
The Big Question: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Now, let’s get down to brass tacks. If you’ve never played The Last Of Us Part 2 before and you’re a PC gamer, then this Remastered version is an absolute no-brainer. You’re getting one of the most critically acclaimed (and debated) games of the last generation, now with enhanced visuals, performance, and some cool new content. It’s a premium experience that’s well worth the investment.
For those who have already played the original on PlayStation, the decision is a bit more nuanced. The visual and performance upgrades on PC are definitely noticeable and contribute to a more immersive experience. The “No Return” mode offers significant replayability and a fresh way to engage with the game’s mechanics.
The “Lost Levels” are a nice bonus for fans interested in the development process. Whether these additions and enhancements justify a full-price purchase will ultimately depend on your love for the game and your desire to experience it in its best possible form. If you were on the fence about the story the first time around, the PC version might not fundamentally change your opinion, but the technical improvements are undeniable.
A Strong PC Port of a Masterpiece (and a Divisive One)
The Last Of Us Part 2 Remastered on PC is a fantastic port of an already exceptional, albeit controversial, game. The visual and performance enhancements are significant, making the bleak and brutal world even more captivating. The inclusion of the “No Return” mode adds a substantial layer of replayability, and the “Lost Levels” offer a fascinating peek behind the scenes. While the core narrative remains the same divisive beast it always was, the overall package on PC is undeniably compelling.
If you’re a PC gamer who missed out on the original, or if you’re a returning fan eager to experience the game with all the bells and whistles your rig can handle, then The Last Of Us Part 2 Remastered is absolutely worth checking out. Just be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster and maybe keep some tissues handy.
Final Word
So, what’s the bottom line? The Last Of Us Part 2 Remastered on PC is a fantastic way to experience a truly impactful (and yes, still debated) game. The visual and performance upgrades are significant, making an already stunning game even better on a capable rig. The “No Return” mode is a blast and adds serious replay value, while the “Lost Levels” offer a cool peek behind the development curtain. If you’re a PC gamer who’s been waiting to jump into this world, or a returning fan looking for the definitive experience, this is it. Just be prepared for a story that will stick with you long after the credits roll.
Our Rating:
This is a top-tier PC port of a landmark title. The technical enhancements are excellent, and the new content is genuinely engaging. While the core narrative might still be divisive for some, the overall package on PC is undeniably impressive and well worth your time and money. Go grab it!
