Very Positive(91%)
stunning graphics
engaging combat
emotional depth
complex themes
dual narrative
Abby's perspective
thematic emphasis
story pacing
performance issues
narrative direction
The general sentiment among players is that The Last of Us Part II is a visually stunning and emotionally complex game that tackles mature themes with depth. While it excels in graphics, voice acting, and gameplay, its narrative choices have been polarizing. The dual narrative with Abby and Ellie provides a unique perspective that some players embrace for its emotional complexity, but others find it disruptive to the flow of the story. Despite some performance issues on PC, the game remains an experience that resonates deeply with many, albeit with caveats about its thematic approach and story direction.
Positive Points
The game is praised for its stunning graphics, immersive atmosphere, and high-quality animations.Players appreciated the engaging and varied combat mechanics, with fluid stealth, action, and cinematic gameplay elements.The game received acclaim for its deep narrative, despite its controversies, and its exploration of complex themes such as revenge, loss, and human morality.Many reviews highlight the excellent voice acting and well-developed characters, which contribute to the emotional depth of the story.Negative Points
Some players criticized the game for occasional crashes and performance issues on the PC port, although it was generally considered better than the port for Part I.The story's pacing and narrative direction received mixed responses, with some players finding certain plot twists unsatisfying or the character arcs forced.There is a notable criticism of the game's thematic emphasis on social issues (e.g., LGBTQ+ representation), which some felt was overemphasized or poorly integrated into the story.Mixed Points
The dual narrative structure, which requires playing from both Ellie and Abby’s perspectives, received a mixed reception—appreciated by some for its depth but criticized by others for its execution and pacing.The storytelling approach, including the timeline shifts and the significant focus on Abby, was seen by some as innovative but by others as disruptive to the story's flow.Common Themes
The emotional impact of the narrative and its ability to provoke thought and discussion on moral issues is a recurring theme.Many reviews focus on the character development and relationships, highlighting them as strengths even when critical of other aspects of the game.The game is frequently compared to its predecessor, with players often noting improvements in gameplay mechanics but expressing varied opinions on whether the story is as impactful.Updated 11/22/2025, 12:01:09 AM UTC