The announcement of The Last of Us Part 1 remake was met with mixed reactions. Many questioned the necessity of revisiting a game already remastered for PS4. Having now experienced Part 1 firsthand, I understand the skepticism, yet I’m also impressed with Naughty Dog’s dedication to revitalizing this iconic PlayStation title. While a remake might not have been strictly necessary, The Last of Us Part 1 delivers a truly definitive edition of the game.
The most immediate and striking improvement in The Last of Us Part 1 is the graphical overhaul. While the PS4 remaster looked good, Part 1 showcases the true potential of the PS5. Resolution, textures, and lighting have all been significantly enhanced, breathing new life into the familiar environments. Each location retains its original design but boasts a level of detail and depth that elevates the overall experience.
The Last of Us Part 1 Environment
The PS5’s power also allows Part 1 to run smoothly at a dynamic 4K resolution and 60fps in Performance mode, offering an incredibly fluid experience. The Fidelity mode prioritizes native 4K resolution, providing a visual feast for the eyes. Both modes are impressive, but the smooth gameplay of Performance mode makes it the preferred choice for many.
Beyond the environments, the character models are the most impressive visual upgrade. Joel, Ellie, and the supporting cast have received stunning makeovers. Facial animations and expressions are remarkably lifelike, enhancing the already powerful performances. The subtle nuances in their expressions, particularly in quieter moments, add a new layer of emotional depth to the narrative.
Joel at a workbench in The Last of Us Part 1
One area where Part 1 falls short is gameplay innovation. The core mechanics of The Last of Us remain largely unchanged. While they haven’t aged poorly, the absence of improvements found in Part 2, like the prone mechanic and enhanced melee combat, feels like a missed opportunity. The most noticeable gameplay change is the improved enemy AI. Opponents are more strategic and frequently utilize flanking maneuvers, providing a more challenging and immersive combat experience. Companion AI also receives an upgrade, behaving more stealthily and realistically.
Naughty Dog has incorporated some quality-of-life improvements from Part 2 into Part 1. Weapon upgrades are now accompanied by animations, and collectible items are now physical objects that Joel and Ellie can examine. While not groundbreaking, these additions enhance the overall polish of the remake.
A frustrating aspect of Part 1 is the decision to lock features like Permadeath and Speedrun mode behind completing the game. This feels unnecessarily restrictive for returning players. While PlayStation offered early access to Speedrun mode for Digital Deluxe and Firefly Edition owners, it remains locked for standard edition owners until after their first playthrough.
The $70 price tag for The Last of Us Part 1 has been a point of contention. While the absence of the Factions multiplayer mode and limited new content might raise concerns, the visual enhancements are undeniably impressive. Naughty Dog’s meticulous attention to detail elevates the game to a level of quality that justifies the premium price for some, though this is ultimately a subjective assessment.
The Last of Us Part 1 Fall Scenery
The Last of Us remains a landmark achievement in storytelling and gameplay, setting a high bar for third-person action games. Part 1 ensures the game’s legacy by bringing it to a new generation with stunning visuals and enhanced performance. It is truly the definitive way to experience this enduring classic. The remake also serves as a perfect entry point for newcomers ahead of the HBO television adaptation, allowing them to experience the emotional power of Joel and Ellie’s journey in its most visually impressive form.
The Last of Us Part 1 is a testament to Naughty Dog’s commitment to quality. While the gameplay remains largely untouched, the visual enhancements breathe new life into this beloved game. The enhanced graphics, lighting, and animations create a more immersive and emotionally resonant experience. It leaves you anticipating what Naughty Dog has in store for their next PS5 project.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
The Last of Us Part 1 was released on September 2, 2022, for PlayStation 5. A review copy was provided by PlayStation.
