Naughty Dog has announced that Last of Us Part 2 is being remastered and the new version is set to arrive on PlayStation 5 with bonus content. The developer released a trailer highlighting its most significant addition: ‘No Return’ mode.
The new ‘No Return’ mode is a roguelike experience that thrusts players into challenging scenarios, facing randomized encounters with groups of Infected, Clickers, and more. Each death in this mode results in a return to the starting point. The mode consists of 12 levels, inspired by iconic locations from the Seattle-based game, culminating in intense boss battles.
Last of Us Part 2 Remastered Brings ‘No Return Mode,’ Featuring 12 Levels
The No Return mode trailer showcases unedited gameplay and cinematic sequences captured on the PS5, providing a preview of a specific encounter. In this scene, the game’s protagonist, Abby, is depicted sprinting into swarms of zombies in Jackson City. The sequence unfolds with Abby getting bitten and subsequently being thrown back to the initial level, offering a glimpse into the intense and challenging dynamics of the gameplay.
In this mode, players will get to select one character among a group of known individuals like Ellie, Dena, Jesse, Lev, Yara, Abby and more. Every character in the game possesses unique traits. Dina, for instance, excels in crafting trap mines and stun bombs. On the other hand, playing as Jessie provides a 30 percent increase in currency earned in each room and access to certain ‘unique items’ at trading posts.
The remastered version is also set to bring in behind-the-scenes content, featuring a multitude of comments from various creatives, including voice actors. Additionally, players can explore numerous “lost levels,” showcasing regions that were omitted from the original Part II release.
The remastered version of The Last of Us Part II will showcase enhanced graphics, featuring native 4K output in Fidelity Mode and 1440p upscaled to 4K in Performance Mode. Additionally, there will be an Unlocked Framerate option for TVs with VRR capability. The improvements extend to increased texture resolution, expanded Level-of-Detail distances, enhanced shadow quality, animation sampling rate, and various other enhancements for an overall improved visual experience.
Last of Us Part II Remastered is set to hit the shelves on January 19, 2024, on PS5. The game is available in two versions, Standard and WLF Edition. The WLF edition is set at a higher price point compared to the standard edition. It comes packaged in a SteelBook case and includes four enamel pins, a clothing patch, and physical versions of 47 trading cards that mirror those found within the game. Moreover, PS4 players of the game will be able to upgrade to this remastered edition for $10 at launch while importing the saved game.