The Last of Us Part II PC: Release Date, Graphics, and System Requirements

By John

Apr 05, 2025

In Gaming

The Last of Us Part II PC: Release Date, Graphics, and System Requirements

After years of anticipation, The Last of Us Part II has finally made its way to PC! This landmark title, originally a PlayStation exclusive, continues the gripping story of Ellie in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by the Cordyceps fungus. This article delves into everything you need to know about The Last of Us Part II PC port, from its release details and graphical enhancements to system requirements and gameplay improvements. We'll cover the key features, performance expectations, and even address some common questions players might have. So, buckle up and prepare to immerse yourself in the harrowing world of The Last of Us Part II on your PC.

Release Date and Availability: When Can You Play?

The Last of Us Part II launched on PC on March 28, 2024. This marked a significant moment for PC gamers who have long awaited the opportunity to experience Naughty Dog's critically acclaimed sequel. The game is available for purchase on both Steam and the Epic Games Store, offering players a choice of platforms. The release brought with it not only the base game but also included all previously released DLC and updates, ensuring a complete and definitive experience right from the start. The simultaneous availability across both major PC storefronts provided accessibility and options for a wider audience eager to jump into the emotionally charged narrative.

Enhanced Graphics and PC Specific Features: A Visual Upgrade

The PC version of The Last of Us Part II isn’t just a simple port; it's a visually enhanced and feature-rich experience tailored for the platform. Naughty Dog and Iron Galaxy (the porting studio) have worked diligently to leverage the power of PC hardware, delivering a noticeable upgrade over its PlayStation counterparts.

Here are some key graphical and PC-specific features:

Ultra-Wide Monitor Support: Immerse yourself in the post-apocalyptic world with full support for ultra-wide monitors, providing a cinematic aspect ratio and expanded field of view. This greatly enhances the sense of scale and immersion within the game's environments.
Uncapped Frame Rates: Unleash the full potential of your gaming rig with uncapped frame rates. This allows for smoother and more responsive gameplay, particularly beneficial during intense combat sequences. Achieving high frame rates depends on your hardware, but the option to push beyond console limitations is a significant advantage.
Improved Textures and Detail: Experience a sharper and more detailed world with improved textures and environmental detail. Character models, landscapes, and objects all benefit from higher-resolution assets, bringing a new level of visual fidelity to the game.
Adjustable Graphics Settings: Fine-tune the game's visual settings to match your PC's capabilities. This allows for a customized experience, balancing visual quality with performance. Options include adjusting texture quality, shadow detail, draw distance, and more.
AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR): Boost performance without sacrificing visual quality using AMD's FSR technology. FSR upscales lower-resolution images to a higher resolution, effectively improving frame rates while maintaining a relatively sharp image.
NVIDIA DLSS Support: While initially not included, many PC players hoped for the inclusion of NVIDIA's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) to further enhance performance. It wasn't included in the release build, however.
Customizable Controls: Tailor the game's controls to your preferred playstyle with fully customizable keyboard and mouse controls. Rebind keys, adjust mouse sensitivity, and create a control scheme that feels natural and intuitive. Controller support is also included, allowing you to use your favorite gamepad.
HDR Support: Enjoy vibrant and lifelike colors with HDR (High Dynamic Range) support. HDR expands the color palette and contrast range, creating a more immersive and visually stunning experience on compatible displays.

These PC-specific enhancements work together to create a definitive version of The Last of Us Part II, offering a level of visual fidelity and customization that was previously unavailable on consoles.

System Requirements: Can Your PC Run It?

Before diving into The Last of Us Part II on PC, it's crucial to ensure your system meets the minimum or recommended system requirements. These specifications will give you an idea of the performance you can expect and whether your PC is capable of running the game smoothly. Keep in mind that these are just guidelines, and actual performance may vary depending on your specific hardware configuration and settings.

Here's a breakdown of the The Last of Us Part II PC system requirements:

Minimum Requirements:

CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 1500X or Intel Core i5-7600K
RAM: 16 GB
GPU: AMD Radeon RX 470 (4 GB) or NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 (4 GB)
Storage: 70 GB SSD
Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit

Recommended Requirements:

CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 3600X or Intel Core i7-8700
RAM: 16 GB
GPU: AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT (8 GB) or NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Super (8 GB)
Storage: 70 GB SSD
Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit

Ultra Settings (4K/60fps):

CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 5900X or Intel Core i9-9900K
RAM: 32 GB
GPU: AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX (24 GB) or NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 (16 GB)
Storage: 70 GB SSD
Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit

Meeting the minimum requirements will allow you to play the game at lower settings with a playable frame rate. The recommended requirements will provide a better experience with higher settings and smoother performance. For those aiming to play at 4K resolution with a target of 60 frames per second, a high-end system with a powerful CPU and GPU is recommended.

It's also important to note the storage requirement of 70 GB, which necessitates an SSD (Solid State Drive) for optimal loading times and performance. While you might be able to run the game on an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), you'll likely experience significantly longer loading times and potential stuttering.

Before purchasing the game, it's always a good idea to compare your PC's specifications against these requirements to ensure a positive gaming experience.

Gameplay Improvements and Accessibility Options: Enhanced Experience

The PC version of The Last of Us Part II doesn’t just offer graphical enhancements; it also includes several gameplay improvements and accessibility options designed to make the game more enjoyable and inclusive for all players.

Here are some notable improvements:

Customizable Controls: As mentioned earlier, the PC version allows for fully customizable keyboard and mouse controls, giving you the freedom to tailor the control scheme to your preference. This level of customization can significantly improve your gameplay experience, especially during tense combat scenarios.
Accessibility Features: Naughty Dog has been praised for their commitment to accessibility, and The Last of Us Part II on PC continues this trend. The game includes a wide range of accessibility options, such as:
- Text-to-Speech: Converts on-screen text into spoken audio, assisting players with visual impairments.
- High Contrast Mode: Enhances the contrast of the user interface and in-game elements, making them easier to see.
- Customizable Controls: Allows players to rebind controls and customize the layout to suit their needs.
- Navigation Assistance: Provides guidance and directions for players who may have difficulty navigating the game world.
- Combat Accessibility: Offers options to adjust combat difficulty and assist with aiming.
Improved AI: While not explicitly advertised, many players have noted improvements in the game's AI on PC. Enemies may exhibit more intelligent behavior, making combat more challenging and engaging.
Faster Loading Times: Thanks to the SSD requirement, the PC version boasts significantly faster loading times compared to the PlayStation versions. This reduces downtime and allows you to stay immersed in the game world.
Skippable Cutscenes: For players who have already experienced the story, the PC version allows for skippable cutscenes, saving time and allowing you to focus on the gameplay.

These gameplay improvements and accessibility options contribute to a more refined and inclusive experience, making The Last of Us Part II on PC accessible to a wider audience.

Performance Expectations and Optimization Tips: Getting the Best Results

While The Last of Us Part II on PC offers significant graphical enhancements, achieving optimal performance requires careful consideration of your hardware and settings. Here are some tips to help you maximize your frame rates and enjoy a smooth gaming experience:

Adjust Graphics Settings: Experiment with different graphics settings to find the right balance between visual quality and performance. Start by lowering settings such as texture quality, shadow detail, and draw distance. Gradually increase these settings until you find a level that provides acceptable performance.
Resolution Scaling: Consider lowering the resolution to improve frame rates. Playing at a lower resolution and then upscaling the image can often provide a significant performance boost without a drastic reduction in visual quality.
FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR): Enable AMD's FSR technology to upscale the image from a lower resolution to your native resolution. FSR can significantly improve frame rates with minimal impact on visual quality.
Update Drivers: Ensure you have the latest graphics drivers installed. Driver updates often include performance optimizations and bug fixes that can improve your gaming experience.
Close Background Applications: Close any unnecessary applications running in the background, as they can consume system resources and impact performance.
Monitor Temperatures: Keep an eye on your CPU and GPU temperatures. Overheating can cause performance throttling and instability. Ensure your cooling system is adequate and that your components are not overheating.
SSD Optimization: Ensure your SSD is properly optimized for performance. Defragmentation is not necessary for SSDs, but you can check that TRIM is enabled, which helps maintain performance over time.
System Monitoring Tools: Use system monitoring tools to track your CPU and GPU usage, temperatures, and frame rates. This will help you identify bottlenecks and areas where you can optimize your settings.
Check for Patches: Be sure to check for any available patches or updates for the game. Developers often release patches to address performance issues and improve stability.

By following these optimization tips, you can fine-tune your settings and achieve the best possible performance in The Last of Us Part II on PC. Remember that the ideal settings will vary depending on your hardware, so experiment and find what works best for your system.

The Last of Us Part II Story Recap and Significance: A Narrative Masterpiece

The Last of Us Part II continues the story of Ellie Williams in a world ravaged by the Cordyceps fungus. Set five years after the events of the first game, Ellie is now 19 years old and living in Jackson, Wyoming, a thriving community. However, a traumatic event shatters her peaceful existence and sets her on a path of revenge.

The game explores themes of revenge, trauma, and the cycle of violence. Ellie's quest for vengeance takes her to Seattle, where she encounters new enemies and allies. The narrative is complex and morally ambiguous, forcing players to confront difficult choices and grapple with the consequences of their actions.

The Last of Us Part II is a significant game for several reasons:

Narrative Depth: The game features a compelling and emotionally charged story that explores complex themes and challenges players' perspectives.
Character Development: Ellie's character undergoes significant development, as she grapples with trauma and makes difficult choices.
Groundbreaking Visuals: The game features stunning visuals and realistic character models, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in video game graphics.
Accessibility Options: The game is praised for its extensive accessibility options, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Critical Acclaim: Despite some controversy surrounding its narrative choices, The Last of Us Part II has received widespread critical acclaim for its story, characters, visuals, and gameplay.

The PC release allows a new audience to experience this narrative masterpiece with enhanced visuals and performance.

Addressing Common Questions and Concerns: Clearing the Air

With any major PC release, players often have questions and concerns about various aspects of the game. Here are some common questions and answers regarding The Last of Us Part II on PC:

Q: Is The Last of Us Part II on PC the same as the PlayStation version?

A: While the core story and gameplay remain the same, the PC version features enhanced graphics, customizable controls, and accessibility options. It also includes all previously released DLC and updates.

Q: Does the PC version support ray tracing?

A: No, the initial release of The Last of Us Part II on PC does not include ray tracing support. However, it is possible that ray tracing could be added in a future update.

Q: Does the game support NVIDIA DLSS?

A: No, the game does not ship with support for NVIDIA DLSS.

Q: What is the file size of the game?

A: The game requires approximately 70 GB of storage space.

Q: Does the game require an SSD?

A: Yes, an SSD is highly recommended for optimal performance and loading times. While you may be able to run the game on an HDD, you'll likely experience significantly longer loading times and potential stuttering.

Q: Are there any known issues with the PC version?

A: As with any new release, there may be some initial bugs or performance issues. However, Naughty Dog and Iron Galaxy are committed to addressing these issues with patches and updates.

Q: Is the game worth buying on PC?

A: If you've never played The Last of Us Part II before, the PC version is an excellent way to experience this critically acclaimed game with enhanced visuals and performance. Even if you've played the game on PlayStation, the PC version offers a fresh experience with customizable controls and accessibility options.

Q: How do I report bugs or issues with the game?

A: You can report bugs or issues to Naughty Dog through their support website or forums.

These are just a few of the common questions players may have about The Last of Us Part II on PC. By addressing these concerns, we hope to provide a clearer understanding of what to expect from the PC version.

The Future of The Last of Us on PC: What's Next?

The release of The Last of Us Part II on PC marks another significant step in Sony's strategy of bringing their PlayStation exclusives to the PC platform. This trend has been met with enthusiasm from PC gamers, who have long awaited the opportunity to experience these critically acclaimed titles.

Looking ahead, the success of The Last of Us Part II on PC could pave the way for more PlayStation exclusives to make their way to the platform. Games like Ghost of Tsushima, Horizon Forbidden West, and Marvel's Spider-Man 2 are all potential candidates for future PC ports.

Furthermore, the PC platform allows for the modding community to contribute to the game's longevity and replayability. Mods can add new features, gameplay tweaks, and even entirely new content, extending the life of the game far beyond its initial release.

The future of The Last of Us franchise on PC also includes the potential for future installments to be released simultaneously on both PlayStation and PC. This would allow PC gamers to experience new entries in the series alongside their console counterparts.

Overall, the release of The Last of Us Part II on PC is a positive sign for the future of PlayStation games on the platform. It opens up new opportunities for both developers and players, and it could lead to a more collaborative and inclusive gaming ecosystem.

Conclusion: Is The Last of Us Part II on PC Worth the Upgrade?

The Last of Us Part II on PC represents more than just a simple port; it's a definitive edition that elevates the already acclaimed title to new heights. With its enhanced graphics, customizable controls, accessibility features, and the inherent advantages of PC gaming, it offers a compelling experience for both newcomers and seasoned fans of the series.

Whether you're experiencing Ellie's journey for the first time or revisiting this emotionally charged narrative, the PC version offers a visually stunning and highly customizable experience. The improved performance, coupled with the accessibility options, makes it the most accessible and enjoyable version of the game to date.

If you're a PC gamer who has been eagerly awaiting The Last of Us Part II, or if you're a PlayStation veteran looking for a fresh perspective on this masterpiece, the PC version is undoubtedly worth the upgrade. It's a testament to the power of PC gaming and a shining example of how a well-executed port can enhance an already exceptional game. The blend of gripping storytelling, stunning visuals, and tailored PC features make The Last of Us Part II a must-have title for any PC gamer's library. Dive in, experience the emotionally resonant story, and witness the post-apocalyptic world as it was meant to be seen.