The Last of Us Part II

Having already played TLOU Part II twice when it launched on the PS4, I couldn't resist picking up the remastered version for the PS5. Call me crazy, but I was curious to see how this version would improve upon the original and revisit this amazing game. After spending hours diving into it once again, I have to admit, while the game is still fantastic, there isn't much of a difference from the original version, unless you compare them side-by-side. That's not to say the game isn't great - because it absolutely is - but if you've played it before, you might not find enough of a reason to justify buying it again.

The story, much like in the first game, is one of its strongest aspects - though this time, it's even better. The game is longer and grips you in a way that makes you want to keep playing. What stands out most for me, in both games, is how morally complex the characters are. Neither Ellie, Joel, nor Abby are straightforward heroes. They make morally questionable decisions that challenge the player's emotions, reminding me of Walter White from Breaking Bad. You care about them, but you're often torn about whether you agree with their choices. That depth makes the narrative compelling and hard to forget.

That being said, I'm not sure if I'd place TLOU Part II as my top game ever like I once did. But without a doubt, it's still one of the best, with a narrative that stands above most other games I've played.