Have you ever wondered what Naughty Dog’s modern classic The Last of Us would have looked like had it come out in the late ’90s? If so, you’re in luck! YouTuber Rustic Games BR uploaded a video showcasing a “demake” of the game for the original PlayStation. The reimagined version of The Last of Us takes heavy cues from the top-down stealth style of legendary designer Hideo Kojima.
The footage reimagines the museum level from the beginning of the game with polygonal graphics reminiscent to the PS1 era. In addition to the graphics, the simplistic sound design helps further build the retro aesthetic. Elements of the HUD, such as the Life health bar and mini-map, also provide a classic Metal Gear Solid feel.
The gameplay of The Last of Us already places an emphasis on stealth. However, the PS1 reimagining takes stealth mechanics back to a different era. The top-down camera angle pays serious homage to Kojima. Details like the vision cone on the map only help make this rendition of The Last of Us more believable.
Other details in the video showcase alternative camera perspectives. For example, the camera angle switches to first-person when Joel aims down the sights of his newly equipped hunting rifle. Parts of the video also show a different angle at various points when Joel takes cover. The angles throughout the footage appear to pay tribute to the fixed camera perspectives of early Silent Hill and Resident Evil games.
An Alternate Timeline
Watching the footage of The Last of Us for the original PlayStation is a truly surreal experience. I personally found myself imagining what it would be like to live in an alternative timeline where modern classics released on retro consoles. Fortunately, Rustic Games BR regularly produces content showcasing various titles reimagined for the PS1. Other games showcased on the channel include Resident Evil 4 and God of War.
What do you think of the demake of The Last of Us? If it came out for the original PlayStation instead of the PlayStation 3, how would the landscape of video games be different today? Let us know what you think down below!
Via Games Radar
