While there are many articles about the differences between The Last of Us Part II Remastered on PS5 and the original, fans are more than eager to discover all the subtle details distinguishing the first title from the brand-new PC version.

What can you expect? And is the new release better than the classic TLoU 2? We might know the answer!

New Modes

The first and most important upgrade from the original video game is the inclusion of new exciting gameplay modes that enhance the familiar experience. Besides the standard campaign, players can expect No Return, Speedrun, Guitar Free Play, and Lost Levels modes. What do they have to offer?

  • No Return

This roguelike survival mode lets you pick from twelve playable characters (two extra arrived with the PC version) to battle hordes of the undead in intense, limited-time sessions on randomly generated levels. Progress leads you to unlockable skins or an unforgiving fight with a powerful boss!

  • Speedrun

Who doesn’t love a decent speedrun? Beat the game as fast as you can to share your records with others on the leaderboard!

  • Guitar Free Play

Try yourself at some relaxing music composition with your favorite characters involved.

  • Lost Levels

It’s your best chance to explore three previously unavailable levels with detailed commentary from the developers.

Technical Upgrades

Perhaps the most noticeable difference between the two games is the graphical upgrades. While they’re subtle, the newer title features higher-quality shadows, animations, and textures.

That’s especially visible in open green areas, although the lighting in the interiors can also amaze. Players also love the particle effects, showing how the dust and spores float in the surrounding environment. It’s very creepy and beautiful at the same time.

Open green areas in TLoU2 Remastered
Open green areas in TLoU2 Remastered / Image credit: Naughty Dog

We can now enjoy reduced load times, a photo mode, and more accessibility options. Moreover, the title offers full PlayStation DualSense wireless controller integration, including haptic effects for a more immersive experience. All these, paired with widescreen and ultrawide support, HDR support, DirectStorage support, and mouse and keyboard mapping, provide an excellent treat for new and long-time series fans.

Conclusion

So, how does the improved TLoU 2 compare to the original? The conclusion may depend on the player’s preferences. Series fans fell in love with new modes (especially No Return!), behind-the-scenes details, improved graphics, more gameplay customization options, and integration with the DualSense controller.

All these changes make the TLoU universe even more fascinating! Therefore, if you are a series fan, definitely play the upgraded version. However, if you have already played TLoU 2 and are not particularly excited about reliving its story, consider skipping the new game on PC.