From a linear, storytelling action game, The Last of Us Part I, in my books, is the cream of the crop.

Top-notch storytelling, coupled with the fantastic cast and incredible technology used to capture such nuance in Joel and Ellie, puts other pieces of media in different mediums to shame. The dynamic they have together is so human, so real; it's unlike anything else I've experienced in video games.

I do have some issues with the game, however. While I do think that the gameplay is absolutely and magnificently done—the weight of Joel, his movement, so natural, the dire consequence of shooting every bullet—I do hate, however, how little dynamic is present in the game to balance out the action parts. The only thing to contrast that side of the game is this "downtime" that consists of dragging dumpsters, finding ladders, and obviously walking into an action set piece. It feels predictable, and even more predictable when there's such a jarring difference from action to downtime.

Also, I do have irks with the story as well. I'm not a huge fan of the harsh cuts that they pull off in some parts of the story. It feels like there are some moments where I really want to see where the story goes, especially the ending, which I feel like ends a little too soon for its own good, like a lot of moments in the story as well. Things get so heated and exciting, only for them pull the rug from underneath us, and transition to different time in the future.

Overall, one of the best linear storytelling games I've ever played. Just imagine how cool Life is Strange would be if it had The Last of Us in it. Oh, how I wish it did.

9/10

Quite possibly one of the most unique RPG experiences I've ever had. From the unique quests, fantastically well-written characters, and crafted story, it leaves a lasting impression on you for sure. While it can be a bit linear sometimes, and dialogue could feel inconsequential, it more than makes up for that with the actual meat of the game. Whether it's the gameplay mechanics or the cinematic and immersive nature of the story, there's something absolutely beautiful that left me coming back to it a lot more than I expected at first.

An issue that irked me with the game, however, is that I hate how some characters get so built up, explored deeply, to the point where you can go a more intimate route with them, only for the game to completely forget about them when you finish their questline. It feels incredibly video game-y. Not even a chance to hang out with them and shoot some ball; very disappointed.

Also, there are no loading screens when entering interiors. You can't say that about Starfield, so it's a win in my books.

9/10