The Last Of Us Part II (Remastered) for PS5 – In-Depth Buyer's Guide

What it is and what it aims to fix

The Last Of Us Part II (Remastered) is a revised version of the acclaimed title, updated for the PS5. It borrows its core story and world from the original game but introduces enhanced visuals and PlayStation 5-specific playability features. If you’re after a story-driven, action-adventure experience with a heavy emphasis on atmosphere, this remaster is pitched as a more polished way to experience Ellie and Abby’s journey.

Why it could be worth it on paper

On the surface, the remaster promises graphical improvements that bring the world to life more vividly, plus full DualSense integration for a more tactile feel during gameplay. The addition of an all-new roguelike survival mode, No Return, suggests extra replayability and a different pacing to the standard campaign. If you value a more immersive control experience and want to explore a tougher, procedurally varied mode, this could justify a second look.

What stands out in use

The PS5 refresh aims to make the environment denser and more detailed, which can heighten immersion during the quieter, exploratory moments and the intense combat sequences alike. The DualSense support is designed to translate events, actions and tension through enhanced haptics and adaptive triggers, which might make certain sections feel more immediate. For players who enjoy revisiting a familiar story with refined presentation, the remaster could feel more immediate and cinematic.

Limitations and caveats to consider

If you’ve already played the game on PS4, the remaster’s improvements may not be dramatic in every moment—some enhancements are subtler or primarily visual. The new No Return roguelike mode adds a different structure, which may appeal if you’re after substantial replay value, but it also represents a shift away from the traditional pacing of the campaign. Consider whether you want a fresh mode on top of the established story rather than a pure graphical uplift.

Who it’s likely best for

This remaster fits players who own a PS5 and want a more cinematic, tactile, and graphically refined way to experience the game, especially if they haven’t yet played it or want a more modern control feel. It can also appeal to those seeking additional content through the No Return mode, provided they’re interested in roguelike survival mechanics.

Who might want to skip it

If you already finished the PS4 version and are satisfied with the visuals and controls, the incremental gains might not justify another purchase. Also, if roguelike modes aren’t your thing, the extra content may feel like a niche incentive rather than a broad appeal.

What to check before you buy

• Confirm you’re playing on a PS5 to maximise graphical and controller benefits.
• Consider whether you value enhanced haptics and adaptive triggers as a meaningful upgrade for this title.
• Decide if you want additional content in the form of the No Return mode or if you prefer the classic campaign experience.

How it compares to the broader approach to buying this game

If you’re weighing this against a plain PS4 version or a digital upgrade, the PS5 remaster is positioned as a visually refined, more immersive option with optional new content. For some, a fresh graphical update plus DualSense support justifies the move, for others, the core experience may already be sufficient.

Final decision

Is it worth it?

It makes sense if you prioritise a more immersive PS5 experience and the potential replay value offered by the No Return mode. If you’re after a straightforward storytelling game and already own the PS4 edition, weigh whether the graphical polish and haptic enhancements are enough to tip the decision.

Quick FAQ

• Does the remaster add substantial story changes? The available information highlights graphical improvements and a new roguelike mode, rather than major story alterations.
• Is DualSense support clearly beneficial here? The remaster advertises full DualSense integration, which should enhance immersion during actions and combat, though the impact may vary by player preference.
• What exactly is No Return? It is described as an all-new roguelike survival mode, offering a different gameplay loop alongside the main campaign.