This is a main-line action-adventure title, released in 2020 and available on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 platforms. Set five years after a devastating global pandemic caused by a mutated Cordyceps fungus, the game plunges players back into a brutal, post-apocalyptic United States. The narrative follows established survivors who have found a semblance of stability in a thriving community, only to have that peace violently shattered. This disruption sets the primary protagonist on a relentless, deeply personal quest for justice and closure across richly detailed, dangerous environments.

Core Gameplay Experience and Mechanics

The gameplay blends intense third-person shooting with deep adventure elements. Players must navigate environments ranging from overgrown forests to decaying urban structures. Survival hinges on resourcefulness, requiring players to utilize firearms, craft improvised weaponry, and master stealth mechanics to evade or eliminate threats.

Combat scenarios pit the player against two primary dangers: hostile human factions driven by desperation, and the cannibalistic infected creatures mutated by the fungus. The game emphasizes tactical decision-making, as direct confrontation is often perilous.

Traversal and Environmental Interaction

A significant component of the experience involves navigating the world. The player characters possess nimble movement capabilities, incorporating platforming elements such as jumping and climbing. This traversal is crucial not only for reaching new story locations but also for gaining tactical advantages during combat encounters.

Narrative Structure and Perspective

The story is structured around a dual perspective, intermittently switching control between two central figures: Ellie and Abby. This narrative approach provides contrasting viewpoints on the central conflict and the high cost of survival and vengeance in this world. The game opens with a brief sequence featuring Joel before the main narrative shifts focus.

What makes this game unique in the genre?

The game distinguishes itself through its commitment to exploring the profound physical and emotional toll exacted by cycles of violence. While featuring robust shooter and adventure mechanics, the core appeal lies in its mature, character-driven narrative that forces players to confront difficult moral ambiguities within a harsh, unforgiving setting.

Available Content and Current State

As a main game release, this title does not feature any separate downloadable content (DLC) or major expansions. It has received one remaster update for newer hardware, optimizing the experience for the PlayStation 5 console.