The Last of Us – Best PS3 Exclusive 2013
Platform: PS3
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
Developer: Naughty Dog
Sony’s PlayStation 3 offerings in 2013 may not have hit the same highs fans will remember throughout the system’s life, but if one game will stick with us well beyond the console’s retirement, it’s The Last of Us from Naughty Dog. Japanese RPGs, cinematic experiences, and even Gran Turismo couldn’t top the kind of white-knuckle intensity defined by The Last of Us, but the quiet moments shared between Joel, Ellie, and the player make up some of the most impressive narrative design in all of gaming. The two characters drew players in with quiet glances, one-word replies, and plenty of curiosity.
The Last of Us made strides to maintain the blockbuster roller-coaster style of Uncharted, but layered entertaining, challenging gameplay with resource management and fiercely intelligent enemy AI. No combat encounter ever played out the same way and the variety of weapons at the player’s disposal made Clicker clean-up so satisfying. The Last of Us held our hearts and minds hostage well after the credits.
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