[h1] The Last of Us™ Part II Remastered is a masterpiece. [/h1]
While the story may seem controversial for some people, I was not one of them. I have thought about this game every day since I played it. The way the story is told could be considered "abstract" but it only makes the impact harder at the end of the game. Playing as Ellie brings you back to the roots of the first game, and I understand why people will dislike Abby. [spoiler]The decision for them to kill Joel was one I did not see coming, however it really helped to convey this story about revenge, and it's eventual end with forgiveness. [/spoiler] In an apocalypse, everything is morally grey, people do right by themselves and what they think is right. Having two opposite people each with their own, yet connecting, overarching stories is why I hold this game so dear.
The graphics are beautiful, the cutscenes, the backgrounds, this game plucks your eyes more than your heartstrings. The smallest details really make this game feel alive, the views over Seattle are insane. The way your horse moves in snow, the grass flattens. And the water, the water is the best I've seen.
The gameplay is insane. The combat is easy to pick up but difficult to master. Throwing bottles at clickers and using your knife to swiftly deal with them (or using a hefty punch.) The guns are satisfying to use, and the finite resources really make you think about what to use in any given scenario. If you craft a Molotov now, later you may not be able to craft bandages and heal yourself.
The characters feel real, each of them have their own beliefs, stories origins. Naughty Dog conveys emotional depth, brutal realism and is brave in the choices they make, to high reward. [spoiler] The loss of Jesse and Joel is emotionally devastating and makes you feel deeply for Ellie and fuels your hatred for Abby. Yet you will come to understand that every character is simply flawed and human. [/spoiler]
This game tells a story of revenge, and redemption. It forces you to look at characters through a way before unexplored. You may not agree with some of their choices, but the writing is undeniably powerful and memorable.
I love this game. Play this game. We need The Last of Us Part III, now.
