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Exploration & Progression — The Last of Us Part I Guide
The Last of Us Part I

Exploration & Progression — The Last of Us Part I Guide

Discover detailed gameplay mechanics, notable changes, and development insights for The Last of Us Part I. Master exploration and progression with our comprehensive guide.

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Discover detailed gameplay mechanics, notable changes, and development insights for The Last of Us Part I. Master exploration and progression with our comprehensive guide.

The Last of Us Part I is a faithful graphical remake of the 2013 action-adventure survival horror game. This guide covers the gameplay mechanics, notable changes from the original, and development details.

Gameplay

Played from a third-person perspective, The Last of Us Part I features modernized gameplay, improved controls, and expanded accessibility options, drawing from The Last of Us Part II. Visual fidelity, effects, exploration, and combat have all been enhanced, with support for PS5 hardware features like 3D audio and DualSense controller feedback.

Notable changes

  • Enemy and companion AI are based on the system from Part II, with Stalkers exhibiting more advanced hiding behaviors.
  • Weapon recoil is increased, encouraging weapon upgrades.
  • User interface is consistent with Part II.
  • The weapon upgrade system from Part II is implemented.
  • Collectible memos are now viewed in-hand.
  • Movement and gunplay are refined, with improved walking pace.
  • Melee items can be thrown while running.
  • Shivs resemble screwdrivers.
  • Physics have been improved, affecting environmental objects.
  • Facial animations in cutscenes use performance capture for more expressive emotional range, notably seen in Tess and Joel.
  • The Uncharted and Jak and Daxter board games are removed, with an extra Nathan Drake doll added.
  • Speedrun Mode and Permadeath difficulty have been added.
  • More skins for Joel and Ellie are available.
  • The multiplayer mode, Factions MP, has been removed.

Development

The remake was initially developed by Sony's Visual Arts Service Group before Naughty Dog took over. It was helmed by game director Matthew Gallant and creative director Shaun Escayg.

Release

Announcement

The Last of Us Part I was officially announced at Summer Games Fest on June 9, 2022, following an accidental leak on the PlayStation Direct website.

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