With Naughty Dog’s generation-defining classic, The Last of Us, now released for the third time on Playstation 5, the pertinent question arises: how many times is it reasonable to replay – and repurchase – essentially the same game?
The Last of Us initially launched two console generations ago, on Playstation 3, in 2013. Ironically, this was the same year the Playstation 4 was introduced. The game achieved significant success, and deservedly so. Naughty Dog’s compelling storytelling, coupled with their technical prowess, cemented it as one of the best games on PS3 (and arguably any console). A Playstation 4 release was inevitable, arriving in 2014 as a “remastered” version, later enhanced in 2016 to leverage the increased capabilities of the PS4 Pro. Now, the Playstation 5 and its generational advancements are in the spotlight. While we anticipate a visually superior experience, what other compelling features justify another full-price purchase?
Technically, The Last of Us Part 1, as this remaster is titled, delivers as expected; it’s a visual and auditory showcase. The original game was groundbreaking a decade ago, and this iteration incorporates ray tracing, a true 4K mode, and a significantly enhanced 3D presence in environments, sound, and details. The lighting effects are truly impressive, potentially the best seen in a game of this generation thus far. Cutscenes and gameplay visuals are now virtually indistinguishable in quality, and character animations have been notably improved, resulting in more realistic facial expressions and body language. The game also supports the PS5’s DualSense controller, with haptic feedback enhancing immersion, particularly when drawing Ellie’s bow or utilizing different weapon triggers. Loading times are minimal, and players can enable Swedish text, a speedrun mode, and a “perma-death” option (limiting attempts before requiring a restart from the beginning, either per chapter, area, or the entire game). Accessibility features are also abundant, including color coding and screen reading capabilities (also in Swedish). The 4K mode operates at a smooth 40 fps. However, the 1440p mode, with its stable 60fps, may be preferable for its responsiveness. VRR support is present in the menus, but functionality was not confirmed during our testing – potentially due to using an early press copy. It is expected to smooth the experience for users with VRR-compatible gaming TVs upon the official September 2 release.
The audio has been enhanced with Playstation’s 3D Audio support, which, when combined with quality headphones, significantly elevates the gaming experience. Precise sound placement builds tension; several areas, now darker yet still navigable with the improved lighting, provide an increased sense of urgency as you can more accurately discern enemy locations.
Cosmetic changes have been implemented to character appearances, partly to enhance realism (particularly in the eyes), but likely also to align with the actors portraying the roles in the upcoming HBO series based on the game (similarly to the Peter Parker redesign in Spider-Man for PS5 coinciding with Tom Holland’s casting). The AI system has also been refined. Enemies exhibit more intelligent and coordinated behavior, while friendly NPCs provide improved support in critical situations. The Last of Us features a compelling narrative, inclusive of the Left Behind DLC, which explores Ellie’s backstory. Overall, the game has aged gracefully, and narratively, it surpasses the technically advanced but divisive and protracted Last of Us: Part 2 (which is also likely to receive a PS5 version, although the PS4 version performs admirably on next-gen hardware).
This edition undoubtedly represents the most complete, technically refined, and immersive Last of Us experience to date, improving upon nearly all aspects of previous versions, especially the visuals. While described as a “remake,” it more accurately aligns with a “remaster” for the current generation. It isn’t a fundamentally new or radically different gaming experience. We appreciate The Last of Us, and its themes have arguably become even more relevant in the context of contemporary pandemics. It remains worth revisiting, and existing fans will likely find renewed enjoyment. However, whether a 700-850 kronor investment is justified is a highly personal decision.
If you are among the fortunate few who own a PS5 and have never played the game, this is an easy recommendation – purchase it without hesitation. If you haven’t revisited it since its PS3 debut in 2013, it may be worthwhile to experience it again. However, if you played it on PS4 Pro in 2016, the key question is whether the enhancements are substantial enough to warrant a new purchase at full PS5 price. We are somewhat hesitant to definitively say yes. While the game has never looked or played better, it remains fundamentally the same decade-old title. Even though it’s an enduring classic that deserves to be experienced – particularly now – the 2022 version doesn’t quite reach the threshold of a “new game.”
In conclusion, The Last of Us Part 1 is not an absolute must-have for most PS5 owners who already possess or have played the game on PS4 (which is a significant possibility, considering its inclusion in the PS Plus collection). However, to offer anything less than a strong recommendation would be a disservice, as it remains one of the finest games released in the past decade.
Playstation provided review copies for this evaluation. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial independence; our reviews are always conducted objectively, with our readers and consumers as the primary focus.
