The Last of Us Hands-On Preview for PlayStation 3 (PS3)

System: PS3
Dev: Naughty Dog
Pub: Sony
Release: June 14, 2013
Players: 1 (2+ Online)
Screen Resolution: 480p-1080p

While the soundscape is top-notch, there is a gameplay feature that I had my reservations about before heading into my play session. “Listen Mode,” Joel’s ability to visualize what he hears, had the potential to be an immersion-breaking feature. It is so well implemented, however, that it is a welcome addition to the already solid gameplay. In a world unlike the reality we know today, the ability to hear things in your environment and visualize them doesn’t feel out of place. Also, with the emphasis this game puts on tense and thoughtful gameplay, it is a welcome mechanic that proves it usefulness repeatedly.

The Last of Us Screenshot

In the end, I was blown away at the level of polish The Last of Us had, especially since it was only a pre-alpha build of the game. Far from the complete package that we will receive in June, this game looked ready to play, and I did not experience any demo-ending glitches that tend to be present at this stage of development.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Naughty Dog’s latest creation. So much, in fact, that I am even more excited to get my hands on the final version. While the demo had little insight into the storyline of game, I think this PS3-exclusive title has the potential to launch another award-winning franchise that we will enjoy for years to come.

June 14th can’t get here fast enough.

By
Josh Bruce
Contributing Writer
Date: April 5, 2013

Game Features:

Developed by Naughty Dog, creators of the best-selling Uncharted series.

Genre-defining experience that blends survival and action elements.

Character-driven story about a population decimated by a modern plague.