Summary
Naughty Dog games started out life making some of the most decorated platforming games out there, particularly the earlierJak and DaxterandCrash Bandicootgames. However, after a couple of years, they pivoted into more spectacle-focused and narrative-intensive games, which is where the studio has really made a name for themselves in the modern era.
UnchartedandThe Last of Usare both titans of the PlayStation line-up and each game in each series is solid in its own right. However, while all Naughty Dog games are fun and enjoyable, there are some that evidently have the best stories in not only the PlayStation collection but video games overall.
TheJak and Daxterseries is known as one of the best platforming games out there. The first game had a solid story, focused more on the comedic side of things and the colorful world.Jak 2,however, amped it up a notch. While still a comedic and funny game (partly due to Daxter), the game has a much darker and more grounded story. While this tonal shift can be jarring for some, it works really well for the game.
The game acts as a coming-of-age storyfor the franchise and Jak himself.Not only is the gameplay refined and fleshed out, but the story is now at the forefront, featuring Jak with more edge, tackling real-world issues, and by the second act, the game has had tons of twists and turns making it worthwhile and exciting. Daxter acts as the perfect foil for his companion and overall,Jak 2has a very balanced yet ambitious narrative.
Uncharted 2is arguably the best game Naughty Dog Games has made and stands out as one of the best action games of the 2000s. The game is famous for some incredible, high-octane set pieces, crazy cutscenes, and solid gunplay. It also has a fantastic story. While it wouldn’t be considered the stereotypical ‘good story’ game, it does action-adventure with tons of heart perfectly.
The game follows swashbuckler Nathan Drake two years after the events of the first game. The game features spy movie-esque double crosses, an adventure around the world, and an incredible cast of loveable supporting characters. The overarching narrative revolves around an around-the-world trip to find and later protect the city of Shambala, this is executed really well, with lots of twists and turns and humor sprinkled in between. The game really shines due to the stellar cast, be it Elena, Chloe, Schafer, or Tenzig, every character is enjoyable, has realistic motivations, and is well-written.
The Last of Us 2is an incredible game, but it is also a very controversial game due to some of the more extreme plot choices Naughty Dog Games went with. While the game isn’t as incredible as the two best storylines under Naughty Dog’s belt, it is still an amazing game in its own right and does really well to follow up on its predecessor.The Last of Us 2is an ambitious project that meets most expectations but doesn’t quite get the big moments right.
The story of the game focuses on themes of revenge, selfishness, letting go, and overall a balance between doing what’s right for oneself and compromising for others. This is a dark tale, full of tragedy, death, and violence. Players are treated to the stories of Ellie from the original game asshe comes to terms with griefand building a life for herself alone, and Abby, a secondary protagonist or deuteragonist on a similar path.Last of Us 2does really well to build on its incredible opening, takes players down atragic and depressing path, and exposes them to the grim realities of the world Ellie finds herself in. The game does well with its ambitious and, frankly, nigh impossible task, but sadly, it fails to live up to the anticipation in the ending, which is why it won’t take the top 2 spots in Naughty Dog’s catalog.
This game is centered aroundone of the greatest treasure hunts ever,Henry Avery’s failed utopia. This relentless search for Libertalia by Nathan Drake, his brother, and Sully is juxtaposed with their own lives. Nathan has a loving family, an exciting job, and just overall a pretty neat life. But he nearly throws it all away for one more adventure.
Players are treated toa cinematic experiencethat hasn’t been matched in the eight years sinceUncharted 4’srelease.Uncharted 4does well to show players that Nate’s thirst for adventure is selfish. Players may even feel guilty at points for ditching Elena. There is an incredible contrast between Sam, Nate, and the failed pirate haven they’re hunting for, and it makes for incredible storytelling. This was the perfect culmination of a beloved series and is a crash course in what a good story should be.
In terms of story,The Last of Usjust about edges outUncharted 4as the best story Naught Dog has ever developed. This game was genre-defining and is still viewed fondly as one of the best games ever made.The Last of Ushas a simple premise, a post-apocalyptic world, a reluctant hero, and a second protagonist serving as the heart of the story. What makes this game special is how well it does everything.
Every little interaction between Joel and Ellie has weight, every small comment or piece of dialogue means something in the grander narrative of the game. Players can view in real-time how Joel, a tragic character, yet one who has made countless mistakes and is not a great guy slowly understands what it means to be human again and how it feels to care for someone again. And let’s not forget that tear-jerker of an ending either.
