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This guide explains the legitimate download process, official system requirements, first-launch settings, PC-specific features, game modes, controller support, accessibility options, and the latest PC patch identified for this guide. The game is rated Mature 17+ and contains intense violence and other mature themes. The story sections below avoid major plot spoilers.
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What you are downloading
The Last of Us Part II Remastered for PC is the Windows version of Naughty Dog’s story-driven action game. The Steam listing credits Naughty Dog, Nixxes Software, and Iron Galaxy Studios as developers, with PlayStation Publishing LLC as publisher. It includes the complete campaign, visual enhancements, expanded Photo Mode features, and several modes and extras that were not part of the original PlayStation 4 release.
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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallThe Windows edition became available on April 3, 2025. The safest way to find it is to start from the official PlayStation PC page, which links to the authorized Steam and Epic Games Store listings. You can also search either storefront for the exact title, but check that the listing identifies the Windows PC edition before purchasing.
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How to download The Last of Us Part II Remastered on PC
- Check the computer first. Confirm that Windows is 64-bit, the processor supports AVX and F16C, the system has at least 16 GB of RAM, and an SSD has at least 150 GB of free space.
- Choose an official storefront. Use the official PlayStation PC page to reach Steam or Epic Games Store, or search for the exact PC title directly in your preferred client.
- Purchase the Windows edition. If you use Steam, the official purchase option is buy The Last of Us Part II Remastered on Steam. Epic users can choose buy the PC version on Epic Games Store. Store prices, editions, promotions, and availability can change, so verify those details at checkout.
- Install to an SSD. In Steam, open Library, select the game, and choose Install. In Epic Games Store, open Library, select the title, and choose Install. Select an SSD with more than the stated free-space requirement if possible, since Windows and the storefront also need working room.
- Update the storefront client and the game. Before changing graphics settings or diagnosing stutter, allow the client to finish any game update and verify that no download is still pending.
- Launch and allow initial processing to finish. Shader or asset processing can affect the first session. Do not immediately treat temporary first-launch pauses as a permanent performance result.
Is a PlayStation Network account required?
A PlayStation Network account is optional for the PC overlay features. Linking one can provide access to PlayStation Trophies, the Friends list, profile settings, and the account-linking bonus described for the PC release. That bonus includes 50 in-game points and an Ellie skin based on Jordan A. Mun’s jacket from Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.
You still need the relevant Steam or Epic Games account to purchase and install the game. Do not confuse optional PSN linking with ownership of the Windows edition: linking a PlayStation account does not turn a console purchase into a PC license.
Official PC system requirements
The requirements below are official target configurations rather than independently tested benchmarks. They describe the intended preset, resolution, and average frame-rate target. Actual results can vary with laptop power limits, drivers, background applications, cooling, memory configuration, and the demands of individual scenes.
| Target | Resolution and frame-rate target | Processor | Graphics card | Memory | Storage and operating system |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum | Low preset; 1280×720; average 30 fps | Intel Core i3-8100 or AMD Ryzen 3 1300X | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 4 GB or AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT 4 GB | 16 GB RAM | 150 GB SSD; Windows 10/11 64-bit version 1909 or higher |
| Recommended | Medium preset; 1920×1080; average 60 fps | Intel Core i5-8600 or AMD Ryzen 5 3600 | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 8 GB or AMD Radeon RX 5700 8 GB | 16 GB RAM | 150 GB SSD; Windows 10/11 64-bit version 1909 or higher |
| High | 1440p; average 60 fps | Intel Core i7-9700 or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 or AMD Radeon RX 6800 | 16 GB RAM | 150 GB SSD; Windows 10/11 64-bit version 1909 or higher |
| Very High | 4K; average 60 fps | Intel Core i7-11700 or AMD Ryzen 7 5700X | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 or AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT | 32 GB RAM | 150 GB SSD; Windows 10/11 64-bit version 1909 or higher |
The most important interpretation is that the minimum tier is a 720p/30-fps Low-preset target. It is not a recommendation for 1080p at 60 fps. The recommended tier is the relevant official starting point for 1080p/60, while the High and Very High tables require substantially faster hardware.
Processor compatibility matters
The official requirements specify AVX and F16C CPU support in addition to the listed processor classes. A computer can appear to meet the core-count or graphics requirements and still fail to launch or behave correctly if the processor lacks a required instruction-set feature. Check the CPU specifications before buying the game if you are using an older desktop or an unusual low-power system.
Best first-launch settings approach
There is no single best configuration for every PC. Start with the official preset closest to your hardware, let shader or asset processing complete, and then adjust settings in a controlled order. Changing everything at once makes it difficult to identify which option solved a problem.
- Choose the target resolution. Use 1280×720 as the official minimum-tier target, 1920×1080 for the recommended tier, or a higher resolution only when the GPU has suitable headroom.
- Set the upscaler. The PC version lists NVIDIA DLSS 3, AMD FSR 3.1, and Intel XeSS. Launch materials also document AMD FSR 4 support and frame-generation options. The available choices depend on compatible hardware and the game’s current build.
- Use a frame-rate limit or VSync as needed. The game supports uncapped frame rates, VSync, and frame-rate caps. A cap can make frame pacing easier to manage, but the appropriate value depends on the display and the performance your system can actually sustain.
- Evaluate frame generation carefully. Frame generation creates additional displayed frames; it does not replace the need for adequate base rendering performance. If the underlying frame rate is unstable, generated frames may not make controls or motion feel consistently responsive. Test it only after the resolution and upscaling choice produce a stable foundation.
- Lower heavy quality settings next. If performance is below the target, adjust shadows, volumetric quality, reflections, ambient occlusion, and level-of-detail distance. Texture quality can also be changed, but available VRAM and image-quality priorities should guide that choice.
- Recheck after every meaningful change. Compare the same type of gameplay rather than judging performance from a menu or a short loading transition. The official requirement figures are averages and targets, not guarantees for every scene.
The game exposes a broad set of graphics controls, including texture quality, level-of-detail distance, volumetric quality, shadows, ambient occlusion, and reflections. It also supports DirectStorage, provided the system and storage setup are compatible.
Display, controller, and accessibility support
Keyboard and mouse
Keyboard and mouse are fully supported. Controls can be remapped, including primary and secondary bindings, so the PC edition does not require a controller. Adaptive mixed input is also supported for players who switch between input devices.
Gamepads and DualSense
Full gamepad support is available. The strongest optional accessory match is a wired DualSense controller if you want the PC version’s supported haptic feedback and adaptive-trigger features. The complete range of DualSense in-game functionality requires a wired connection; do not assume that Bluetooth provides every haptic or trigger feature.
A controller is not required for the game. Keyboard and mouse may be the better choice for players who prefer remapping flexibility or mouse aiming, while DualSense is attractive for those who specifically want its console-style feedback on PC.
Ultrawide and HDR
The PC version supports widescreen and ultrawide formats, including 21:9, 32:9, and 48:9 triple-monitor configurations. HDR is supported when the display and hardware are compatible. Enable HDR both in Windows and on the monitor or television where required, then check the game’s display settings; otherwise the image may not appear as intended.
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- 3rd Generation Tensor Cores: Get up to 2X the throughput with structural sparsity and advanced AI algorithms such as DLSS. These cores deliver a massive boost in game performance and all-new AI capabilities.
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- OC Mode : 1500 MHz (Boost Clock)/Default Mode : 1470 MHz (Boost Clock)
Accessibility features
Notable accessibility options include Descriptive Audio and Speech to Vibrations, alongside the game’s broader accessibility settings. Descriptive Audio availability can depend on the supported audio language selected. These features are part of the PC release rather than reasons to rely on a particular controller.
What is included in the Remastered edition?
The full story campaign
The package includes the original story campaign with visual improvements. Its post-pandemic United States setting includes Jackson, Wyoming, Ellie, Joel, Abby, infected enemies, and hostile survivor groups. The campaign alternates between Ellie’s and Abby’s perspectives, and the deliberate structure is an important part of how the story presents their journeys.
For a first playthrough, use the normal Story mode and its original order. That recommendation comes from the game’s developer: the initial structure was designed deliberately, and changing it can alter how the campaign’s information and character parallels unfold.
No Return survival mode
No Return is a separate, replayable roguelike survival mode rather than a replacement for the campaign. It uses randomized encounters, different enemy groups and locations, selectable characters with distinct traits, and boss encounters. The PC release includes two additional characters, Bill and Marlene, plus four additional maps: Overlook, School, Streets, and Nest.
Approach No Return as a way to practice the game’s combat systems and learn how different characters change your options. Pick routes according to the resources and risk currently available, and learn each character’s strengths instead of treating one universal build as mandatory. The randomized structure means a route that is safe in one run may not be the best choice in another.
Lost Levels and developer commentary
Lost Levels presents early-development versions of three levels that were not included in the original release. They are best understood as behind-the-scenes material rather than missing campaign chapters that need to be completed to understand the main story. The package also includes hours of developer commentary.
Guitar Free Play, Speedrun Mode, and Photo Mode
Guitar Free Play lets players experiment with the guitar and unlockable instruments outside the normal story flow. Speedrun Mode is an unlockable feature that tracks a replay-focused run. The Remastered edition also expands Photo Mode and includes unlockable character and weapon skins.
Chronological Story mode: play it first?
PC Patch 1.5 added Chronological Story mode on July 8, 2025. It also added related achievements and trophies, as well as UNCHARTED-themed Joel and Tommy skins awarded for completing the mode. The mode offers an alternative way to examine the chronology and the parallels between Ellie’s and Abby’s journeys.
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Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Latest PC patch identified for this guide
The latest official PC patch located in the available research is Patch 1.6, released July 22, 2025. Its listed game version is v1.6.10721.0105. Because storefront builds can change and later updates may supersede these notes, check the current Steam or Epic update status and the latest official patch notes before publication or troubleshooting.
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- Military-grade components deliver rock-solid power and longer lifespan for ultimate durability. Compatibility: 348mm (13.7") length, 3.6 slots, 4.3 lbs. Confirm case clearance and slot spacing. GPU bracket included.
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Patch 1.6 addressed a range of issues, including:
- Mouse-and-keyboard input for safe-code entry.
- A rare progression blocker during Ellie and Jesse’s car chase.
- Display settings that did not persist correctly.
- An Epic Games No Return leaderboard crash.
- Controller and gyro behavior.
- Several visual, stability, and performance problems.
- Ultrawide cinematics and related display issues.
Patch 1.5, released July 8, added Chronological Story mode, its related achievements and trophies, the UNCHARTED-themed Joel and Tommy skins, and additional fixes for high-frame-rate effects and localization.
PC troubleshooting checklist
The game will not install
- Confirm the selected drive is an SSD and has at least 150 GB free before starting the installation.
- Check that the storefront client itself is up to date.
- Make sure the installation is for the Windows PC edition, not a console listing or unrelated product.
- After installation, allow the storefront to download the latest game update before launching.
Performance is poor or inconsistent
- Confirm that the PC is not still processing shaders or assets after first launch.
- Start with the official preset that matches the hardware rather than selecting Very High automatically.
- Verify the output resolution and use an appropriate upscaler.
- Try a frame-rate cap or VSync if frame pacing is uneven.
- Reduce shadows, volumetric quality, reflections, ambient occlusion, and level-of-detail distance in that order of priority as a practical starting point.
- Only evaluate frame generation after the underlying game is rendering at a stable, playable base frame rate.
Do not interpret the minimum GPU as a 1080p/60 guarantee, and do not treat the official High or Very High targets as benchmark results for every laptop or desktop configuration.
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Settings, safe-code input, or ultrawide cinematics are behaving incorrectly
First confirm that the game has received the latest available patch. Patch 1.6 specifically listed fixes for safe-code input, display-setting persistence, and ultrawide cinematics, among other issues. If a problem remains, record the storefront, game version, display format, input device, and the exact point at which it occurs before seeking technical support.
The controller or haptics are not working as expected
- Confirm the game recognizes the controller before changing unrelated graphics settings.
- For full DualSense haptic and adaptive-trigger functionality, connect the controller by USB rather than assuming Bluetooth supports every feature.
- If the controller is unreliable, try the game’s supported keyboard-and-mouse controls or another full gamepad as a diagnostic comparison.
- Update the game before investigating controller or gyro behavior, since Patch 1.6 included fixes in this area.
Is the PC version worth choosing?
The Windows edition is the appropriate choice if you want adjustable graphics, uncapped or capped frame rates, keyboard-and-mouse controls, ultrawide support, modern upscaling options, PC accessibility settings, and the expanded Remastered content in one package. The recommended hardware target is aimed at 1080p and 60 fps; systems near minimum should be planned around Low at 720p and 30 fps instead.
Choose Steam or Epic based on the launcher and account ecosystem you already use. Neither choice should be treated as a cross-buy bridge to a PlayStation copy, and this guide does not assume Steam Deck compatibility or promise a specific laptop performance result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play the Windows version if I own The Last of Us Part II Remastered on PS5?
No automatic cross-buy is described for this release. A PS4 or PS5 copy, including a PS5 disc, does not unlock the Windows edition; purchase the PC version separately through Steam or Epic Games Store.
Do I need a PlayStation Network account to play on PC?
PSN linking is optional for the PC overlay, PlayStation Trophies, Friends list, profile settings, and the account-linking bonus. You still need the relevant Steam or Epic Games account to purchase and install the game.
Can a PC with the minimum requirements run the game at 1080p and 60 fps?
That is not the official minimum target. The minimum configuration targets the Low preset at 1280×720 and an average 30 fps. The official 1080p/60 target is the recommended tier, using a Core i5-8600 or Ryzen 5 3600 and an RTX 3060 or RX 5700, among other requirements.
Should I play Chronological Story mode first?
No. The developer recommends the original Story order for newcomers because the campaign’s structure was deliberately designed. Chronological Story is better suited to a replay, completionist run, or players specifically interested in comparing the chronology of Ellie’s and Abby’s journeys.
The Bottom Line
Download the Windows edition through the official Steam or Epic Games Store listing, install it on an SSD with at least 150 GB free, and update the game before tuning performance. Plan around 720p/30 on minimum hardware and 1080p/60 for the recommended tier. Use the standard Story order for a first playthrough, then explore No Return, Chronological Story, Lost Levels, Guitar Free Play, and the expanded Photo Mode as replay content.
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Quick Recap
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