This is the best game of all time. It’s a provocative, immersive tale about the downfalls and triumphs of the human race, told through a wide range of different perspectives. Parallels are masterfully woven between characters. The story slowly unravels with you, urging the player to face the self-destructive nature of humankind. It faces us with the importance of prioritizing our similarities instead of our differences as people. It is an unforgettable warning against war, violent revenge, and societal division.
Its groundbreaking steps in LGBTQ+ and multiracial representation are fleshed out and authentic, not shallow or forced. Naughty Dog has taken big strides in advancing the diversity of video game protagonists. Each character is thoughtfully well-written, each serving as their own interactive mirror. The player inevitably grows with them throughout their journey, and emerges a changed being by the end.
Gameplay is sobering and requires strategy, especially if you play at a harder difficulty. Out of the box thinking and changes to your original plan are essential, and TLOU2 really challenges the player to adopt several different approaches to their combat/infiltration style. Gameplay parameters are highly customizable.
And of course, the music remains incredible and deeply moving. Props to Gustavo Santaolalla.
BUY THIS GAME! REMAIN OPEN-MINDED!