UnchartedandThe Last of Usrepresent a creative shift not only at Naughty Dog, but the PlayStation “family” in general. The now-top developer was previously known for colorful, family friendly platformers likeCrash Bandicootandthe originalJak and Daxter. AfterThe Precursor’s Legacy, theJakseries became edgier and started taking itself more seriously, indicating a shift in “maturity” at Naughty Dog. Indeed,Unchartedbecame known for its mild violence and cursing in addition to having a realistic art style that completely differs from the aesthetics of Naughty Dog’s previous works.The Last of Us, being a much grittier post-apocalyptic tale, is the apex of Naughty Dog’s transition from family friendly fare to so-called “mature,” award-winning titles.
The success ofUnchartedandThe Last of Usis not only linked to the games’ cinematic qualities, but their replay value. The originalLast of UsandUncharted’s second and third games had beloved and long-lasting multiplayer modes that enriched the core gameplay provided by their single-player campaigns. Unfortunately,Naughty Dogshut down the servers a few years ago, only sparingThe Last of UsRemastered. Considering these games’ legacies, Naughty Dog should make an effort to bring back their multiplayer modes, especiallyUncharted’s, on PC.
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Uncharted and The Last of Us’ Popularity
All good things must come to an end. For example, one does not expect Nintendo to bring back servers for old DS and Wii games anytime soon. However, the difference between Naughty Dog’s PS3 titles and the likes of the DSPokemongames orMario Kart Wiiis their longevity. Both theUnchartedtrilogy andThe Last of Uswere remastered for PS4, and the PS3 servers were shut down long after the release of these remasters.
BothUnchartedandThe Last of Uscontinue to be among PlayStation’s most popular IP.Unchartedrecently got a film adaptation, and two of its most recent installments - includingUncharted 4- were ported to Steam.The Last of Usis also getting an adaptation of its own, in addition to a sequel that received overwhelming acclaim despite its controversies. Even if Naughty Dog decides to tackle another original game, its titles from the past decade have not been forgotten.
WithThe Last of UsRemastered’s multiplayer being alive, it seems odd that Naughty Dog did not extend the same kindness to itsPS4 versions of theUnchartedtrilogy. The games are still alive and available on an active platform that people interact with, and while the multiplayer modes were not nearly as popular as they once were by the time that servers shut down, it is Naughty Dog’s responsibility to make sure that the games remain engaging. DitchingUnchartedon the PS4 while maintainingThe Last of Uscould suggest favoritism, which wouldn’t sit well with fans.
IfUncharted 4can see a modern release on PC, then so can its predecessors. Having PC versions of both theUnchartedtrilogy andThe Last of Uswould increase their longevity as both single and multiplayer games.Except for Nintendo titles, several former exclusives from across the industry are getting PC releases, and PC tends to offer the richest multiplayer. Additionally, the PS4 is in its final years, which is bad news forThe Last of UsRemastered. Naughty Dog’s recent titles are among the most successful in the last two console generations, so putting them on PC with revived multiplayer modes should satisfy fans and higher-ups that are concerned about financial gains.
Uncharted: The Nathan Drake CollectionandThe Last of Us Remasteredare available on PlayStation 4.
