Naughty Dog has officially launched The Last of Us Complete, a comprehensive two-game compilation for PlayStation 5 (PS5), on April 10, 2025. This new bundle combines the critically acclaimed The Last of Us Part I and The Last of Us Part II Remastered, allowing players to experience the full narrative of Joel and Ellie in one package.
The digital version of The Last of Us Complete is priced at $99.99, making it an accessible option for both newcomers to the franchise and veterans alike. For those who prefer physical media, a Collector's Edition is also available for pre-order, set to release on July 10, 2025, at a cost of $109.99.
This Collector's Edition features a Steelbook case adorned with exclusive artwork, and includes physical discs for both games. Additionally, it comes with the Left Behind prequel chapter, The Last of Us: American Dreams Comics #1-4 with new cover art, a set of four lithographic art prints, and a heartfelt thank-you letter from Naughty Dog's co-president, Neil Druckmann.
In a blog post, Druckmann expressed gratitude for the community's support, saying, "From our entire studio, thank you so much for your incredible support for The Last of Us and Naughty Dog over the years. This is such an exciting moment for both the franchise and our teams." He acknowledged the impact the series has had on fans, stating how their personal stories have inspired the team to continue creating engaging narratives.
The announcement of The Last of Us Complete comes just days before the highly anticipated premiere of HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2, which will debut on April 13, 2025. This timing has led many to speculate that the release of the bundle is a strategic move to capitalize on the show's popularity.
Since its original release in 2013, The Last of Us has seen multiple iterations, including:
- The Last of Us on PS3
- The Last of Us Remastered on PS4
- The Last of Us Part II on PS4
- The Last of Us Part I, a remake for PS5/PC
- The Last of Us Part II Remastered for PS5/PC
- The Last of Us Complete on PS5
This pattern of re-releases has sparked discussions among fans about the future of the franchise. Druckmann has hinted at the possibility of more stories within the universe, though he has also cautioned against expecting a direct continuation of Joel and Ellie’s saga. In his words, "there's probably one more chapter to this story," but he also mentioned, "Don't bet on there being more." This leaves the door open for new characters and narratives within the same universe.
As for the gameplay experience, The Last of Us Part I has been rebuilt from the ground up for the PS5, featuring enhanced graphics, DualSense support, and 3D audio. Meanwhile, The Last of Us Part II Remastered not only improves upon the original but also includes additional content such as the No Return mode and Lost Levels, providing players with new ways to engage with the story.
Critics and fans alike have lauded the series for its storytelling, character development, and emotional depth. The remastered versions aim to enhance these elements, making them more accessible to a new generation of players. As the franchise continues to evolve, the excitement surrounding both the games and the HBO adaptation signifies a thriving interest in the post-apocalyptic world created by Naughty Dog.
In summary, The Last of Us Complete is not just another re-release; it represents a culmination of years of storytelling and gameplay innovation. With its launch coinciding with the new season of the HBO series, it offers both fans and newcomers a chance to experience the journey of Joel and Ellie like never before. Whether players choose the digital bundle or the Collector's Edition, there’s no denying that this release is a significant moment for the franchise.
