The Last of Us Part 2 has released a new Chronological Mode update that has annoyed fans and is leading to jokes from detractors. It’s hard to blame them, because Naughty Dog is always finding a way to re-release these games. Although it isn’t a full-blown re-release, Naughty Dog still spent time and resources on this, making the mode hilarious to many.
While it's no surprise to see Naughty Dog on the receiving end of jokes for making the mode, it’s not that bad of an idea when you really think about it. In fact, it’s kind of unique.
On paper, making The Last of Us Part 2’s story “easier to follow” to make it more in line with the HBO show reeks of corporate synergy. However, you almost never see full rearrangements like this made for games, especially released as a separate update. So, without further ado, here’s a very light defense for this seemingly meaningless mode.
It’s Never Been Done Before
We still don’t think Naughty Dog had to release an update in order to make the game’s story easier to follow. The game’s story isn’t even difficult to understand, as those flashbacks are timed well and add to scenes happening in the current events.
However, it’s worth defending because it’s never been done before. Not everyone can follow stories in the same way, so making a mode that simplifies this process is actually unique. It still didn’t “need” to happen, but seeing this amount of effort is somewhat admirable.
There’s a New Way to Replay The Game
For players who needed another reason to play The Last of Us Part 2, Chronological Mode does just that. Because the structure has been completely changed, it actually gives players a slightly different playing experience. That doesn’t make it better than the original campaign, but it’s a neat option to have.
Plus, there are new trophies to get. Who doesn’t love new trophies?
Chronological Mode Is Free
The easiest defense for The Last of Us Part 2’s Chronological Mode is that it’s free, with no additional payments needed. It might be slightly annoying to wait for that update to load, but that’s the biggest gripe you can have. Only Naughty Dog and PlayStation lost money on this mode, so players themselves have nothing to worry about.
Since it’s free, players can either give Chronological Mode a shot or ignore it entirely. That’s the best part of free stuff, you can do anything or nothing with it. Beyond that, there’s literally nothing for players to get angry about, aside from dev time, which could have been used for Intergalactic or any other new game.
At its most offensive, The Last of Us Part 2’s Chronological Mode is meant to mirror the HBO show more, which is lame corporate synergy. Beyond that? There’s literally nothing to be angry about, since this is a free update. Yes, PlayStation needs to move on from this franchise, but this is the least offensive thing they’ve done with it.
For more gaming hot takes, stick with us here at Gfinityesports.com: the best place for The Last of Us coverage.
For more articles like this, take a look at our Features and The Last of Us page.