The Last of Us Part I Review (Dukhat)
The Last of Us is a post-apocalyptic action-adventure game that will leave a lasting impression on players long after they've stopped playing. Set in a world ravaged by a fungal pandemic, the game follows the journey of Ellie, a teenage girl, and Joel, a hardened survivor, as they navigate through a dangerous and unforgiving world filled with both infected monsters and hostile human factions.
From the moment you start playing, you are drawn into the world of The Last of Us. The attention to detail is astonishing, with every aspect of the game serving to immerse the player into its post-apocalyptic setting. The graphics are simply breathtaking, with stunning landscapes, realistic weather effects, and dynamic lighting that all contribute to the overall atmosphere of the game. The sound design is equally impressive, with an atmospheric soundtrack that perfectly complements the on-screen action, and voice acting that will leave you feeling emotionally invested in the characters and their journey.
But what truly sets The Last of Us apart from other games is its storytelling. The game’s script is well-written and emotionally charged, with deep and complex characters that will leave you caring about their fates. The relationship between Ellie and Joel is the backbone of the story, and it’s a testament to the writing and voice acting that you will find yourself invested in their relationship, even in the most trying of times. The game’s cut scenes are masterfully executed and bring the story to life in a way that feels both natural and impactful.
The gameplay is just as impressive as the storytelling. The game blends together elements of stealth, survival horror, and action, and manages to do so in a way that feels seamless and intuitive. The AI system is top-notch, with enemies that feel like real threats and that will keep you on your toes as you try to survive. The crafting system allows you to scavenge for materials to upgrade your weapons and create health kits, adding a layer of strategy to the gameplay.
One of the standout features is its level design. The game’s environments are sprawling, open, and filled with opportunities for exploration. The level design allows you to approach situations in different ways, giving you the freedom to choose whether to engage in combat or try to sneak past enemies. The game also encourages you to explore its world, with hidden collectibles and secrets that will reward you for taking the time to delve deeper into its world.
Naughty Dog delivers again with its timeless masterclass narrative experience, this time rebuilt from the ground up following contemporary gaming standards. With modern graphics and updated mechanics, The Last of Us Part I is the definitive way to enjoy the multilayered and complex story of Joel and Ellie. It remains a genre-bending action survival game that challenges the status-quo by weaving together multiple elements. An expanded array of accessibility options, gameplay modifiers, and extra modes allows this remake to be experienced by anyone from any background and that’s not an easy feat.
With this remake, Naughty Dog has made one of the best games of all time even better. While you may look at screenshots or snippets of video footage and think that it looks and plays just like you remember it, go back to an older version and you'll realize just how much work has been done here. But for both newcomers and ardent fans The Last of Us Part I is a treat that's worth every penny. It would be one thing if this emotional roller coaster was just as captivating now as it was nine years ago. But in fact, it's even more so. And that's an impressive achievement.
If you can fling yourself over the price hurdle, this is absolutely the best version of the singleplayer game. The environments look superb, the characters are rendered perfectly, and the gameplay is super satisfying. What’s more, the game has been opened up to a wider audience with a comprehensive suite of accessibility settings, and veteran players can sweat it out in the Permadeath and Speedrun modes. The price tag is cheeky, undoubtedly, but if anyone can pull off this wallet heist, it’s Naughty Dog with The Last of Us.
In conclusion, The Last of Us Part I is a game that sets a benchmark for what a video game can be. It’s a game that tells a powerful and emotionally charged story, with graphics and sound design that are second to none. The gameplay is challenging, immersive, and offers a level of freedom and choice that is rare in the gaming world. It is a must-play and a game that you will not soon forget. It’s a masterpiece of a game.