Can you play The Last of Us remake on PS4 Pro?
No, the full remake of The Last of Us titled "The Last of Us Part I" that launched in September 2022 is exclusively available on PlayStation 5. It was rebuilt from the ground up to take advantage of the PS5‘s more powerful hardware and cannot be played on PS4 Pro. However, PS4 Pro owners can still enjoy the original 2014 remastered version of The Last of Us, which offers excellent graphics and performance.
Let‘s dig deeper into the key differences between versions
When talking about "The Last of Us" games, it can get a bit confusing between the original, remaster, and remake versions available. Here‘s a quick guide to help:
- The Last of Us (2013) – Originally launched on PS3
- The Last of Us Remastered (2014) – Enhanced remaster for PS4 and PS4 Pro
- The Last of Us Part I (2022) – Full remake exclusive to PS5
While the PS4 Pro can run the Remastered version, it cannot play the built-for-PS5 remake. So what exactly are the major differences between Remastered on PS4 Pro and the remake on PS5? Let‘s break it down.
Visual fidelity
From a pure graphics perspective, the PS5 remake delivers far superior visuals and detail. Here‘s some objective data on resolution and graphical enhancements:
| Version | Resolution | Graphics/Details |
|---|---|---|
| PS4 Pro Remastered | 1800p or 2160p | Improved textures/lighting over PS3 version |
| PS5 Remake | Native 4K | Completely new assets and character models |
As you can see, the fidelity leap is massive. The remake was rebuilt from scratch targeting 4K resolution and using advanced rendering techniques only possible on new hardware like the PS5. Every texture and 3D model is brand new. This allows for far more realistic, detailed environments and characters.
Performance
Aside from graphics, the performance capabilities also see a big boost when going from PS4 Pro to PS5:
| Version | Frame Rate | Load Times |
|---|---|---|
| PS4 Pro Remastered | 30fps or 60fps | Faster than PS3 |
| PS5 Remake | Target 60fps | Near instant with SSD |
The PS5‘s powerful Ryzen CPU, fast SSD, and modern architecture allow the remake to achieve 60fps gameplay and almost eliminate load times. This enables much smoother combat and exploration.
Immersion
The PS5 also provides greater immersion thanks to the Tempest 3D audio engine and DualSense controller features. These include haptic feedback and adaptive triggers that help you truly feel each weapon, environment, and encounter. It takes the experience to the next level.
Accessibility
One of the most important improvements in the remake is the huge expansion to accessibility options. There are now over 60 settings to help gamers with disabilities enjoy the experience. These include text-to-speech, high contrast modes, granular difficulty adjustments, and much more.
The PS4 Pro remaster still shines in 2022
Now while the PS5 remake delivers an incredible, state-of-the-art experience, the PS4 Pro version also remains a fantastic way to enjoy The Last of Us if you don‘t have access to a PS5 yet.
Here‘s why the PS4 Pro remaster still shines in 2022:
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Excellent 4K/1080p graphics – With the power of PS4 Pro, the remaster offers high resolution details and improved lighting over the PS3 original. It makes the post-apocalyptic world come alive.
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Choice of higher resolution or framerate – You can favor image quality at 4K/30fps or smoother gameplay at 1080p/60fps. Great customization.
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All original content included – It contains the full original game and Left Behind prequel chapter. You get the complete experience.
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Cheap and accessible – At only $19.99 both physically and digitally, it‘s very affordable these days.
For PlayStation fans who have already invested in a PS4 Pro console and 4K TV, the remaster is likely the smarter economic choice rather than buying a PS5 just to play the remake. It‘s amazing how well this enhanced PS4 version holds up nearly 10 years later.
Additional ways to experience The Last of Us universe
Beyond just PS4 Pro and PS5, here are some other options for enjoying the critically acclaimed world of The Last of Us:
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PS4 – The Remastered version can also be played on a base PS4 console. Solid 1080p resolution and performance.
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PS3 – Die-hard fans can track down the original PS3 disc or digital version to play on legacy hardware.
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PC – The Remastered release is playable via the PlayStation Plus Premium streaming service on PC. Decent alternative if you don‘t own PlayStation console.
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HBO Series – The upcoming HBO adaptation promises to bring the story and characters to life in a new format when it airs in 2024.
No matter which version you play, The Last of Us stands as one of the most impactful video game narratives ever crafted. Naughty Dog‘s masterful blending of survival action, exploration, and storytelling makes it a must-play even today. For PS4 Pro owners, the remaster is the most practical way to dive into this classic.
The Last Word
So in summary, while The Last of Us Part I remake is exclusively available on PS5, PS4 Pro owners can still experience the brilliance of this game through the Remastered version. This PS4 edition holds up remarkably well in 2022 with its beautiful 4K graphics and choice of higher resolution or framerate.
For players not ready to upgrade to PS5, the PS4 Pro remaster is absolutely worth playing. While it doesn‘t have every bell and whistle of the remake, it remains an amazing game that successfully brings the original vision to newer hardware. I‘d highly recommend PS4 Pro gamers give The Last of Us Remastered a shot if they haven‘t yet had the pleasure. Its gripping narrative and technical prowess are just as compelling today.