The Last of Us
Exceptional storytelling, but lots of violence, profanity.
Parents say
Based on 62 reviews
Kids say
Based on 148 reviews
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The Last of Us
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this game.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Last of Us is a survival horror adventure game exclusively for the PlayStation 3. The action of this video game has plenty of violence, blood, and gore. There is quite a bit of combat in this game, including dramatic scenes that might be scary to the gamer. Joel and Ellie will shoot to kill, blow up, stab, or smash enemies -- many of whom are dangerous bandits or zombie-like mutants -- as they're trying to stay alive. Parents should also know there is strong profanity throughout the game and sexual references in dialogue. There's a mix of races, genders, and sexualities presented in the title, but their character development and backgrounds are barely explored over the course of the game.
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What’s It About?
THE LAST OF US takes place in the near future, after most of the earth's population has been decimated by a deadly viral outbreak. Mother Earth has reclaimed much of the planet, growing over many of the streets and buildings. As player, you must try to survive in this post-pandemic world. You play as a hardened middle-aged man, Joel, who vows to protect a 14-year-old girl, Ellie, from a number of threats -- including bandits with no regard for human life and zombie-like mutants who attack unprovoked. Joel protects Ellie as they make their way across the United States.
Is It Any Good?
This game is by far the best title to debut in 2013, and possibly one of the most engaging, entertaining and emotionally invested titles in a very long while -- but be aware it's rated "Mature" for graphic violence. Naughty Dog's talented designers and developers crafted a thrill ride that fuses clever combat, puzzle-solving, and exploration -- all tied together by a great story with well-written dialogue, excellent voice acting, and characters you genuinely care about. This is no easy feat for a game to nail all of these points, not to mention others like great pacing, tight controls, and high production values including near-photorealistic graphics and top-notch sound effects and music. When you've finished the solo campaign, multiplayer options add to the game's replayability. If you're 17 years of age or older and enjoy story-driven action games, don't pass on The Last of Us -- you won't find a better disc to sink your time and money into.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about violence. Naughty Dog's The Last of Us might have a lot of violence, but it's clear the protagonists don't want to engage in these confrontations if they can avoid them. Does that make the violence more palatable? Does it matter that Joel is protecting young Ellie from harm? Or is the game as bad as others that let you kill, virtually, for enjoyment?
How does the quest across the country in The Last of Us stand out from other apocalyptic titles? Does it feel similar to other games or movies? Is it significantly different? Why?
Game Details
- Platform: PlayStation 3
- Subjects: Language & Reading: following directions, using supporting evidence, Social Studies: events, exploration, government, Science: ecosystems and the environment, electricity, plants
- Skills: Thinking & Reasoning: analyzing evidence, decision-making, solving puzzles, Self-Direction: achieving goals, personal growth, work to achieve goals, Emotional Development: handling stress, moving beyond obstacles, persevering, Collaboration: meeting challenges together, teamwork, Creativity: imagination, Responsibility & Ethics: learning from consequences
- Available online?: Available online
- Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
- Release date: June 14, 2013
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Adventures, Friendship, Monsters, Ghosts, and Vampires, Science and Nature, Wild Animals
- ESRB rating: M for Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Strong Language
- Last updated: August 26, 2016
Our Editors Recommend
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Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception
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Infamous 2
Superhero sequel lets players choose to be good or evil.
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Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II
Short game with sci-fi action set in a galaxy far, far away.
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The Last of Us Part II
Brutally violent game suggests violence isn't a solution.
For kids who love action and adventure games
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