The Last of Us is a post-apocalyptic action-adventure game developed by Naughty Dog and released in 2013 for the PlayStation 3. It quickly garnered critical acclaim for its cinematic storytelling, and in 2020, a sequel, The Last of Us Part II, was released for the PlayStation 4. Both games tell the story of the survivors of a fungal outbreak that has decimated humanity, and explore themes of love, loss, and the morality of survival.
From the opening moments of The Last of Us, it’s clear that cinematic storytelling is at the forefront of the game’s design. The game begins with a stunning, emotionally-charged cutscene that sets up the harsh world the game takes place in. From there, the game cleverly blends cutscenes with gameplay, often seamlessly transitioning between the two. Dialogue between characters is often delivered in real-time, with naturalistic performances adding to the game’s immersion.
One of the ways The Last of Us sets itself apart from other games is its use of limited resources. Weapons, ammunition, and supplies are in short supply, adding a sense of tension to every encounter. The game’s mechanics of scavenging for supplies and crafting weapons also serve to immerse the player in the game’s world and its themes. The limited resources also serve to create a sense of desperation, as the characters are forced to make difficult decisions about what they need to do to survive.
The game’s story is told through a mix of mechanics, cutscenes, and optional exploration. The world is richly detailed, with hidden notes and artifacts that expand upon the game’s lore and backstory. The game’s narrative is both emotionally affecting and thematically rich, exploring the lengths people will go to survive and the choices they make along the way.
The Last of Us Part II builds on the foundation laid by its predecessor, and takes the game’s storytelling to new heights. The game delivers a mature, thoughtful exploration of the consequences of violence, both on the individual and on society. The game’s use of multiple playable characters and shifting perspectives adds depth to its themes, allowing the player to explore the motivations of characters on both sides of the game’s conflict.
One of the key strengths of The Last of Us Part II is its use of non-linear storytelling techniques. The game’s narrative is presented out of order, with flashbacks and alternate perspectives frequently shifting the player’s understanding of events. The game’s structure adds complexity to its themes, exploring the idea that our perceptions of people and events can be shaped by our own biases and prejudices.
The Last of Us and its sequel are both masterpieces of cinematic storytelling. The games deliver emotionally powerful stories that explore complex themes in mature, thought-provoking ways. The games are also a testament to the power of video games as a storytelling medium, showcasing the unique ways games can immerse players in a narrative and create a sense of empathy with the characters. For fans of video game storytelling, The Last of Us is an essential experience.