Is The Last of Us an Open-World Game?
The Last of Us, developed by Naughty Dog, is a critically acclaimed action-adventure game that has gained a massive following worldwide. One of the most debated topics surrounding this game is whether it can be considered an open-world game. In this article, we will dive into the definition of open-world games, analyze The Last of Us’s gameplay mechanics, and provide a direct answer to the question.
What is an Open-World Game?
An open-world game is a type of game that offers players a vast, non-linear environment to explore, with the freedom to choose their own path and complete objectives in any order they desire. These games typically feature a large, open world that players can navigate, with a variety of activities, quests, and secrets to discover. Examples of open-world games include Grand Theft Auto V, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, and Assassin’s Creed II.
Is The Last of Us an Open-World Game?
At first glance, The Last of Us may seem like an open-world game due to its post-apocalyptic setting and large, explorable environment. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that the game is not a traditional open-world game.
Limited Exploration
One of the primary characteristics of an open-world game is the ability to explore and discover new locations without any restrictions. In The Last of Us, the game is structured around a linear narrative, with the player’s progression heavily influenced by the story. While the player is given a degree of freedom to explore certain areas, they are ultimately guided towards the next story checkpoint.
- Comparison to other open-world games: The Last of Us’s level design is more akin to a corridor-based shooter, where the player is funneled through a set path, rather than a true open-world game like Grand Theft Auto V, where players can roam freely and discover new locations.
- Map structure: The game’s map is divided into smaller, more confined areas, rather than a single, massive open world.
No Side Quests or Optional Objectives
Another key characteristic of open-world games is the inclusion of side quests, optional objectives, and other activities that allow players to deviate from the main story. The Last of Us does not have these features, with the main storyline being the primary focus of the game.
- Main storyline: The game’s story is linear, with the player’s progress heavily influenced by the narrative.
- No side quests: There are no optional objectives or side quests in The Last of Us, unlike open-world games like Assassin’s Creed II, which features a wide range of optional activities.
No Non-Linear Storytelling
Open-world games often feature non-linear storytelling, where the player’s choices and actions have a significant impact on the story. The Last of Us, on the other hand, has a heavily scripted narrative with few player choices that affect the story.
- Scripted narrative: The game’s story is heavily scripted, with the player’s choices having little to no impact on the overall narrative.
- Little player agency: The player has limited agency in shaping the story, with the narrative progressing in a set manner regardless of their actions.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis above, it is clear that The Last of Us is not a traditional open-world game. While it may share some superficial similarities with open-world games, such as a large environment to explore, it lacks the key features that define the genre. The game’s linear narrative, limited exploration, and lack of side quests and non-linear storytelling all point towards a more traditional, corridor-based design.
Key Takeaways
- The Last of Us is not a traditional open-world game, despite its post-apocalyptic setting and large environment.
- The game’s linear narrative and limited exploration are key differences from true open-world games.
- The lack of side quests, optional objectives, and non-linear storytelling further distances The Last of Us from the open-world genre.
The Verdict
The Last of Us is a masterclass in storytelling, game design, and emotional resonance, but it is not an open-world game. While it may have some superficial similarities with the genre, it is ultimately a more traditional, linear experience that focuses on storytelling and character development.