Fourth Developer Diary of The Last of Us scrutinises combat, gameplay mechanics

Naughty Dog has issued another video on their developer diary series of The Last of Us, choosing to focus on the tension-filled combat and survival action gameplay mechanics in this post-apocalyptic PS3-exclusive title. Titled Them or Us, the clip starts off with some brutal close-combat sequences in which the playable main character Joel uses his fists, bricks and other such items to dispose of some of the enemies in the game.

Lead Programmer Travis Mcintosh talks about how several of the opponents your character meets in the game are in the same boat as you, basically doing what they need to survive another day, as they developers intended to ensure that players felt strong emotions – whether it be hate, fear, sympathy, empathy etc – when facing such elements. Game Director Bruce Straley talks about how this will ensure that gamers feel that there is a consequence to engaging in combat with other characters. Creative Director Neil Druckmann says how often it simply comes down to “kill or be killed” scenarios, as can be expected in such a harsh unforgiving world.

Game Designer Anthony Newman speaks about the inclusion of numerous contextual moves, in which characters utilise the environment, such as slamming enemies against walls, pushing opponents through glass windows etc. We also see how the Listening Mode allows players to stealthily eavesdrop on enemies and get the drop on them. The developers also expand a bit on Ellie’s role in the game, particular pertaining to her AI aiding you in various ways, such as picking up useful items, throwing projectiles at enemies, or calling out their positions if in your vicinity. The previous developer diary in this series can be view here.