Chris’s Top Ten Videogames of 2016: #7
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
Developer: Naughty Dog
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
PS4
Uncharted 4 is probably the best blockbuster movie video game I’ve ever played! I know that sounds like a bold statement but, I find it hard to describe it any other way because at times it felt like I was playing one of the best action movies ever made!
Similarly to Gears of War 4, this is the first Uncharted game to appear on the PS4. (that’s if we discount the Uncharted Collection, which was a remaster of the original 3 games released on PS3.) So, the pressure was on for Naughty Dog to deliver what is supposedly Nathan Drakes final instalment in the series.
Uncharted 4 follows the adventures of Nathan Drake and starts with Nate trying to live the quiet life as he settles down with Elena. Nates long lost brother Sam comes back onto the scene and as you can imagine a wild adventure ensues.
The Uncharted games have always been praised for the interplay between the characters which appears natural and helps define their personality. Uncharted 4 is no different and I genuinely cared for Nate and his dilemma. Help his brother, risk his marriage and possibly get himself killed, or stay at home and have a happy, but dull, family existence.
The action doesn’t deviate too far away from the traditional Uncharted formula of platforming and shooting but, in addition there is also a new grappling hook and some driving levels. There are noticeable elements of another Naughty Dog game, The Last of Us, as there are open areas which gives you the opportunity to use stealth against the enemies.
There have been some stunning looking games this year but, Uncharted 4 is probably the best looking console game I’ve ever played! Each level looked absolutely glorious but, the levels set in Madagascar blew me away. There was a video doing the rounds on the internet of in game footage showing Nathan Drake. If you look closely you can see the individual veins and blood vessels in his ears! That is the level of detail that Naughty Dog have put into this game.
The performance capture from the actors including Nolan North and Troy Baker is nothing short of extraordinary, and really helps to bring these characters to life. The facial animation is also incredible and some of the best I’ve seen in a video game.
Uncharted 4 is quite possibly my favourite in the series featuring some amazing set pieces that left me on the edge of my seat. If this is the last time that Nathan Drake will feature in an Uncharted game then Naughty Dog have created one hell of a ride that will live long in the memory.
Review by Chris (co-host of 60 Minutes With and The Same Coin).