If you are reading this blog, for sure, you are a fan of The Last Of Us. And after its release on June 19, 2020, there were mixed reactions. But we cannot deny that it is considered a rightful masterpiece on its own respect and has been considered one of the best games ever produced.
Its release has possibly divided the fan base to the other half, giving its support and recognition for the game while the other is quite disappointed about it. It is no surprise, though, as Naughty Dog is known to offer critically-acclaimed games that keep people talking. The question is, has it been a proper sequel, or is it downright a disappointment?
Most of the disappointments were rooted in the gameplay elements and the narrative of the Last Of Us Part II. But what did it lead to such verdict?
The start of the game shows Joel and Tommy, with the former explaining the previous events that happened from part 1. It also taught players with the new mechanics called the Doge and other mechanics in the last game. More so, it sets the stage for Abby, whom the players will be able to control. Abby's introduction was concrete, making players know of how heavy, swift, and brutal her combat is.
Perhaps the most talked-about part of the introduction was when Joel was shot in Abby's legs despite Joel helping her. It later led to the unjust death of Joel that was witnessed by Ellie. This part moved most fans to complain about the character's untimely death that did not do any good in the gameplay.
Another reason that could be attributed to the disappointment of some gamers is that they were not given the freedom to make the decisions in the game. Since its narrative drives the Last Of Us Part II, it brings to questionable light choices of the characters like Joel and Tommy disclosing their identity to Abby.
The confrontation was the highlight of the game. For most gamers, they find the idea of playing as Abby as a point of contention, especially Abby, which is why Joel was killed. But this is considered a bold move from Naughty Dog to show Abby's perspective and why the cycle of hate and violence is prevalent.
Gameplay-wise, most of the combats in The Last Of Us Part II are considered to be quite repetitive. And this added to the dismay of players.
The majority of the fans are more concerned about the idea that they need to play as Abby and to understand where she is coming from based on the standpoint of the story. Other fans argued that if players are just open-minded about the different aspects of the game, specifically taking the fresh eyes of Abby, they will better understand the game.
The narrative also features Abby helping Seraphite children who are chased by a cult. In this instance, the players are able to have a new renewed point of view that Abbie is also human with a heart.
Another aspect of the game that has been trivialized by dismayed viewers is the ending of The Last Of Us Part II. It showed Ellie granting freedom to Abbie and not avenging the death of Joel.
At the end of the day, the game will not satisfy the desires of all people. But it will definitely remain as a masterpiece for some. While there are several things that people pointed out to be the game's fiasco, we cannot deny that it is not a flop as a whole. It depends on who plays it and how they look at the game's narrative as a whole.
Do you think The Last Of Us 2 is a disappointment? Or do you think it's a great second part? Please share your thoughts down below!