Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesPlay The Last of Us Part I first, then The Last of Us Part II. PlayStation explicitly recommends starting with Part I’s single-player story, and Part II takes place years after Joel and Ellie’s first journey. Despite their similar names, the editions are different: Part I is a remake of the original story, while Part II Remastered is an enhanced release of the sequel.
Which should you play first?
For a first playthrough, follow the story order: The Last of Us Part I, then The Last of Us Part II (or Part II Remastered). PlayStation’s official Part I FAQ puts it plainly: “We recommend playing The Last of Us Part I single-player story first.” Starting there introduces Joel and Ellie’s journey before the sequel continues their story.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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The Last of Us Part I – PlayStation 5 | $37.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Sony Interactive Entertainment The Last of Us Part 1 Standard PlayStation 5 | $45.06 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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The Last of Us: Part I and Part II Scripts | $31.06 | Buy on Amazon |
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If you already know the first game’s story, you can choose based on what you want to play, but Part II is still a sequel rather than an alternate starting point.
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Part I: Joel and Ellie’s first journey
Part I tells the original story of Joel and Ellie traveling through a post-pandemic United States. The remake includes Left Behind, a chapter that explores Ellie’s backstory. The broad premise is enough to orient a newcomer; the game’s impact depends in part on discovering events as they unfold.
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- Enhanced visuals: Completely rebuilt from the ground up using Naughty Dog’s latest PS5 engine technology to improve every visual detail, The Last of Us experience has been faithfully enhanced with more realistic lighting and atmosphere, more intricate environments and creative reimaginings of familiar spaces.
- Fast loading: Initial loading times are near instant, and seamless after the first instance thanks to the PS5 console’s SSD – so you can pick up where you left off in the story and load specific encounters and chapters more quickly.
- Haptic feedback: DualSense wireless controller haptic feedback support for every weapon elevates combat encounters, and environments are brought to life through DualSense wireless controller haptic sensations of subtle falling rain, the crunch of stepping on snow and more.
- Adaptive triggers: All The Last of Us iconic weapons, including Joel’s revolver and Ellie’s bow, now deliver dynamic DualSense wireless controller trigger resistance and kickback on firing for deeper combat immersion.
- 3D Audio: Designed to make use of the PS5 console’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, Naughty Dog’s newly upgraded audio engine delivers richer soundscapes, bigger explosive moments and more visceral gameplay through compatible stereo headphones (analogue or USB) or TV speakers.
Part II: a later chapter
Part II begins five years after the earlier journey. Joel and Ellie have settled in Jackson, and a violent event sends Ellie on a pursuit of justice and closure. The official Part II Remastered description also foregrounds Abby’s journey. These premises explain why the sequel follows Part I without giving away later plot turns.
Part I remake vs. Part II Remastered
The labels describe different kinds of releases, not two versions of the same game.
| Release | What it is | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| The Last of Us Part I | A ground-up remake of the original single-player story. | The original story and Left Behind. It does not include the original game’s Factions multiplayer mode. |
| The Last of Us Part II Remastered | An enhanced release of the 2020 sequel, not a remake of Part I. | The sequel with PS5 visual and controller enhancements, plus No Return, Lost Levels, and developer commentary. |
The official Part I page describes its gameplay as modernized, with improved controls, exploration, combat, and accessibility. The Part II page presents its systems as new and evolved. That supports a broad distinction between a remade first story and a sequel that develops the series’ approach; it does not establish a measured, feature-by-feature comparison.
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What changes in Part II Remastered?
On PS5, Part II Remastered increases texture resolution, level-of-detail distances, shadow quality, and animation sampling rate, according to its official product page. It also adds several ways to revisit or explore the game:
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- Flexible design
- High-quality material
- Durable
- No Return: a roguelike survival mode.
- Lost Levels: playable early-development levels, presented with commentary.
- Developer commentary: insights from the creators accompanying parts of the game.
Part I’s PS5 version is described as rebuilt from the ground up and includes faster loading, 3D audio, haptics, and adaptive triggers. Both PS5 releases support DualSense features. A DualSense controller is not a separate prerequisite implied by these features; check the platform and controller requirements shown for the version you plan to play.
Accessibility options
Both games offer extensive accessibility options, though features and labels can differ by game and version. Part I’s listing describes options including clear or large text, high-contrast visuals, audio-cue alternatives, directional audio indicators, and visual-comfort controls. The Part II Remastered product page lists 30 accessibility features; Naughty Dog’s launch article highlights Speech to Vibrations and Cinematic Descriptions. If a particular feature matters to you, check the accessibility listing for the exact edition and platform before choosing.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which edition should you buy?
New to the series on PS5
The Last of Us Complete is the simplest single-package option listed by PlayStation for PS5: it contains Part I and Part II Remastered, letting you play in the recommended order. See the official Complete listing for current regional availability and details.
Buying the games separately
Choose Part I first, followed by Part II Remastered. PlayStation’s official listings identify Part I and Part II Remastered for PS5 and PC; the original Part II product page lists PS4. Availability can vary by region, so confirm the actual storefront listing, edition, and platform before purchase.
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Already own Part II on PS4?
PlayStation’s Part II Remastered FAQ describes an upgrade option for some existing owners. Eligibility and price depend on the edition and ownership details, so check the current FAQ rather than assuming every copy qualifies on the same terms.
Playing on PC
The official listings show PC versions of Part I and Part II Remastered. Check the current storefront page for system requirements and availability; those details are not established here.
Bottom line for a first playthrough
Play The Last of Us Part I before Part II. Choose Part I for Joel and Ellie’s original journey, then continue with the sequel; on PS5, Part II Remastered is the enhanced release that also adds No Return and Lost Levels. If you want both in one PS5 package, PlayStation lists them together in The Last of Us Complete.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
