# Does The Last of Us Part II have better graphics?

> Yes, Part II looks better than the original 2013 game; the 2022 Part I remake uses similar tech, and Part II Remastered adds PS5 and PC upgrades.

Compared with the original 2013 The Last of Us, Part II (2020) has clearly better graphics: more detailed characters and faces, better lighting, denser environments and more realistic animation. The comparison gets closer with *The Last of Us Part I* (2022), a full remake of the first game built with Part II's technology, which many players think matches or even edges it. On PS5 and PC, *The Last of Us Part II Remastered* adds higher resolution, better textures and higher frame rates.

## Versions compared

| Version | Platform | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| The Last of Us (2013) / Remastered (2014) | PS3 / PS4 | Strong for its time, clearly older-looking today |
| The Last of Us Part II (2020) | PS4 | Major jump in animation, faces and lighting |
| Part II with PS5 patch | PS5 | Same game at up to 60 fps with improved resolution |
| The Last of Us Part I (2022) | PS5, PC | Remake of the first game on Part II-level tech |
| Part II Remastered (2024) | PS5, later PC | Higher resolution, better textures and shadows, faster loading, roguelike No Return mode |

## Where Part II stands out

- **Facial animation and performance capture**, especially in quiet story scenes.
- **Lighting and atmosphere**, from overgrown Seattle to rainy nights.
- **Environmental detail:** destructible glass, vegetation, rope and water physics.

## Is the PS5 version worth it?

If you own the PS4 version, an upgrade to Remastered is available at a reduced price. It's worth it if you want the best visuals, faster loading, DualSense haptics and the No Return mode. The free PS5 patch for the PS4 disc already gives a big smoothness boost.

For other console games praised for their visuals, see [which console games have the best graphics](https://gamevoyages.com/which-console-games-have-the-best-graphics/).

## FAQ

**Which Last of Us has the best graphics?**
Part I (the 2022 remake) and Part II Remastered are the best-looking versions; they use similar technology.

**Is The Last of Us Part II the most realistic game?**
It's often named among the most realistic-looking games, especially for animation, alongside titles like Red Dead Redemption 2.

**Will there be a Last of Us Part III?**
Naughty Dog hasn't officially announced one; the studio's next announced game is Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.

**Why is the TV show set in 2003?**
The HBO series moved the outbreak to 2003 from the game's 2013 so the main story could take place around the time of the show's release.

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https://gamevoyages.com/does-last-of-us-part-2-have-better-graphics/ · Game Voyage · Checked 2026-10-30