The Last of Us: Part 2 Remastered: PS5 Review

Developed by Naughty Dog
Published by Sony
Platform: PS5

The need for remasters continues to be one of the biggest issues dogging the gaming industry. 

While some see it as a way to bring their games into the next generation, there's also a counter argument that it's a lazy way for studios to mine their own back catalogue and capitalise on an already successful IP.

For Naughty Dog, who have previously remastered most of their games and reissued them, it's clearly an issue that was front of mind with The Last of Us: Part II, a game that can't be changed because of its narrative trajectory, nor can it really have DLC added in given its impressive backstory.

While the main game still brings the pain and anguish even with a spit and polish reinforcing how atmospheric and evocative it is throughout, Naughty Dog's added in extras that will appeal to those who've already invested more than enough financially and emotionally in Ellie and Joel's journey.

Chief among these is No Return, a roguelike spinoff which sees you taking control of various characters across a series of perma-death encounters. From basic level fights to stealth battles and an ultimate boss showdown, No Return makes a compelling case for taking the action out of the main game and transferring it into a standalone series. It sort of makes up for the studio's decision to can its planned multiplayer, but it also will make you possibly think about how you play the main game, given there are limited resources, time constraints and people to kill.

From a section that sees you teamed up for survival to a game that requires you to capture a safe, and over varying levels of difficulty, No Return offers enough of a reason to pay down an extra $20 for the upgrade. 

Throw in the fact there are cosmetic skins, a Guitar free play mode (which unlocks further instruments the farther in the main game you are) as well as deleted levels which have developer commentary, The Last of Us Part II's remaster has enough to bring back those who've already played. For all others, its complete package feels like a good strong jumping on point for the next generation.

Ultimately, The Last of Us: Part 2 Remastered remains one of the current generation's finest attempts at storytelling and mechanics. It still won't appeal to everyone, but for those willing to invest time and emotions into the journey, it's as strong a ride as ever it has been.