Naughty Dog recently previewed a thrilling new addition to The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered, a single-player roguelike mode, No Return.
Set for release on January 19, 2024, the upcoming PlayStation 5 remaster of this much-acclaimed sequel is bringing an array of enhancements and new content to its fans, with No Return Mode being a standout feature.
No Return Mode challenges players to survive a series of randomized encounters, each one culminating in a tense boss battle. The mode will feature different foes and locations from The Last of Us Part 2, and each encounter will come with unique gameplay modifiers, adding to the replayability and excitement of the game. Additionally, this mode includes a global leaderboard as part of a Daily Run, allowing players to compete on a worldwide scale.
The roster of playable characters in No Return is particularly exciting. Alongside Ellie and Abby, players can choose from a variety of other characters from The Last of Us Part 2, some of whom are being made playable for the first time. This is including the likes of Dina, Jesse, Lev, Yara, and Manny, with Tommy, Joel, and Mel appearing as unlockable characters. Each character comes with unique traits, offering a range of playstyles, and players can also unlock skins for them as they progress in the game.
Another notable feature coming to the remastered game is the Guitar Free Play mode. This mode allows the players to interact with various instruments and effects, adding a creative and personal touch to the gameplay experience. It also brings Lost Levels, which are playable sequences previously cut from the original game. The levels provide development insights and include developer commentary, offering fans a glimpse into the creative process behind this iconic game.
The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered is not just a visual upgrade. It will feature enhanced graphics with native 4K output in Fidelity Mode, 1440p upscaled to 4K in Performance Mode, and an Unlocked Framerate option for VRR-ready displays. The game also boasts increased texture resolution, improved shadow quality, animation sampling rate, and more. The DualSense wireless controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers will further enhance the immersive experience.
Importantly, the original game’s extensive accessibility options return with the remaster, alongside new additions such as Descriptive Audio and Speech to Vibrations. The popular Photo Mode also makes a comeback with dynamic lighting, Frame Forward, and Gaze Direction among other enhancements.
For those who already own the PS4 version of The Last of Us Part 2, a digital upgrade to the PS5 remastered version will be available for $10. This upgrade path applies whether the original version was purchased physically or digitally. Additionally, players can import their saves from the original game to the remastered version.
The pre-orders for The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered, for both standard edition and the Remastered W.L.F. Edition, have already started. The latter is a special edition that includes a steelbook, trading cards, enamel pins, and a Washington Liberation Front Patch, making it a collectible item for fans. Obviously, it has sold out, which only speaks to the popularity of the re-release despite all the criticism and backlash.
With the introduction of No Return Mode, Guitar Free Play, Lost Levels, and various technical and graphical upgrades, Naughty Dog is ensuring that both new players and returning fans have something exciting to look forward to in this remastered edition. The release of this game on January 19, 2024, is eagerly awaited by the gaming community, promising to set new standards in storytelling and gameplay experience.
