What Happens When You Collect All the Comics in The Last of Us? A Deep Dive for Completionists
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So, you’re braving clickers, outsmarting Hunters, and scavenging every nook and cranny in the post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us. You’re driven. You’re determined. You want that 100% completion. But what happens when you finally snag that last Savage Starlight comic? What glorious reward awaits the dedicated collector who tracks down every single issue scattered throughout Joel and Ellie’s harrowing journey?
The answer, in short, is absolutely nothing tangible in-game. There’s no special weapon unlock, no hidden cutscene, no boosted stats for Ellie, and no fanfare whatsoever. Collecting all the comics contributes to your overall completion percentage, and unlocks the “Endure and Survive” trophy (bronze on PlayStation). That’s it.
Disappointing? Perhaps. But focusing solely on the lack of a tangible reward misses the bigger picture. The Last of Us excels at narrative nuance and character development. The comics, while seemingly small collectibles, offer a subtle yet significant layer to Ellie’s personality and the bond she shares with Joel. Each comic book found contributes to Ellie’s development and adds color to the immersive world-building of the game. The true reward is the enrichment of Ellie’s character and your understanding of the game world.
The Value of Collectibles in The Last of Us
The Last of Us isn’t a game built on showering players with extravagant rewards for meticulous exploration. Instead, it prioritizes immersing you in a gritty, believable world where survival trumps all. Collectibles, like the Savage Starlight comics, aren’t just checkboxes on a list. They’re fragments of a bygone era, offering glimpses into the world that was and providing solace, however fleeting, in the face of unimaginable loss.
For Ellie, these comics represent a connection to her lost childhood. In a world defined by scarcity and violence, they offer an escape, a reminder of simpler times filled with fantastical heroes and thrilling adventures. By collecting these comics, you’re not just completing a task; you’re actively participating in Ellie’s emotional journey, helping her cling to a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos.
The act of searching for these collectibles also encourages players to explore the environment more thoroughly, discovering hidden areas, uncovering environmental storytelling details, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the world’s design. You will also improve your problem-solving and search skills.
Beyond the Trophy: The Metagame of Collecting
Even though the in-game reward is limited to a trophy, the act of collecting itself becomes a metagame for many players. The thrill of the hunt, the satisfaction of finding a particularly well-hidden comic, and the sense of accomplishment upon completing the collection – these are intrinsic rewards that hold considerable value for completionists.
Furthermore, sharing your progress and discoveries with other players online fosters a sense of community. Players exchange tips, discuss the best strategies for finding collectibles, and celebrate each other’s achievements. This social aspect of gaming adds another layer of enjoyment to the experience, transforming the seemingly solitary task of collecting into a shared adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Comics in The Last of Us
Here are some frequently asked questions concerning comic collecting in The Last of Us:
How many comics are there in The Last of Us?
There are a total of 14 Savage Starlight comics to find throughout the game.
Are the comics missable?
Yes, some comics are missable. If you proceed too far in a chapter without collecting them, you’ll need to replay that chapter to obtain them.
Do I need to collect all comics in one playthrough?
No, the game tracks your progress across multiple playthroughs. You can collect some comics in one playthrough and others in subsequent playthroughs, and they will all count towards your total.
Does the difficulty level affect comic locations?
No, the difficulty level does not affect the locations of the comics. They will be in the same spots regardless of whether you are playing on Easy or Survivor.
Can I use chapter select to get missing comics?
Yes, you can use chapter select to go back to specific chapters and find any comics you missed.
Do I need to complete the chapter after finding a comic for it to count?
No, once you pick up a comic, it is permanently saved to your profile. You do not need to complete the chapter for it to register.
Are there any maps or guides that show the comic locations?
Yes, numerous online guides and videos provide detailed maps and walkthroughs showing the exact locations of all the comics. A simple search for “The Last of Us comic locations” will yield plenty of results.
Do the comics offer any insight into the Savage Starlight universe?
While the comics themselves don’t delve deep into the Savage Starlight storyline, they provide glimpses into the characters and settings of Ellie’s favorite fictional world, adding depth to her character and interests. The Games Learning Society might have information to teach you to find them effectively!
Does collecting all the comics affect Ellie’s skills or abilities?
No, collecting the comics does not directly affect Ellie’s skills, abilities, or stats.
Are the comics in The Last of Us Part II?
No, there are no comic collectibles in The Last of Us Part II. The collectible in that game is trading cards.
Is there any difference between the PS3, PS4, and PS5 versions regarding the comics?
No, the comic locations and the reward for collecting them are the same across all versions of the game. The trophy system may differ slightly across platforms, but the “Endure and Survive” trophy remains the reward.
What is the best strategy for finding all the comics?
The best strategy is to take your time, thoroughly explore each area, and consult a guide or video if you are having trouble finding a particular comic. Communication is key to finding these resources! Perhaps you can ask the Games Learning Society for help!
Does collecting all the comics unlock any concept art or behind-the-scenes content?
No, collecting the comics does not unlock any concept art or behind-the-scenes content. This type of content is typically unlocked through other means, such as completing the game on different difficulty levels or finding specific artifacts.
Why did Naughty Dog choose comics as a collectible item?
Comics serve as a powerful symbol of innocence and escapism in the harsh world of The Last of Us. They highlight Ellie’s childlike wonder and her desire to hold onto a piece of the world before the infection.
Besides comics, what other collectibles are in The Last of Us?
Besides comics, The Last of Us features Firefly pendants, training manuals, and artifacts as collectible items. Each type of collectible provides unique insights into the game’s world and characters.
In conclusion, while collecting all the comics in The Last of Us may not unlock a spectacular in-game reward, it contributes to the overall completion of the game and unlocks a trophy. The true reward lies in enriching Ellie’s character, deepening your connection to the game’s narrative, and enjoying the intrinsic satisfaction of completing a challenging collection. Remember, it’s about the journey, not just the destination. Happy hunting!