Welcome to “The Last of Us II: Getting Started Guide”—your ultimate companion to mastering this thrilling, post-apocalyptic adventure! Whether you’re a newcomer or need a refresher, our guide is here to help you navigate through the intense and emotional journey that awaits. We’ll break down the basics with subtopics including Understanding Basic Controls, Navigating the Game World, Starting Your First Mission, Managing Health and Resources, and essential Tips for New Players. Get ready to dive into the game with confidence and make your mark in this unforgettable experience. Let’s embark on this adventure together!

Understanding Basic Controls#

Welcome to The Last of Us II—a gripping journey full of tense moments, strategic combat, and heart-wrenching storylines. Before you dive deep into this post-apocalyptic world, it’s essential to get familiar with the basic controls. Mastering these will enhance your survival chances and make the game much more enjoyable. This guide will cover all the basic controls you need to know.

Movement and Camera#

• Left Stick (L): Move your character.
• Right Stick (R): Adjust the camera angle.
• L3 (Press L Stick): Sprint. You’ll need this to escape enemies or move quickly through the environment.

Basic Actions#

• X Button: Jump or climb. This helps you navigate obstacles and reach higher platforms.
• Square Button: Melee attack. Important for close combat situations.
• Circle Button: Dodge. Timing your dodge correctly can help you avoid attacks.
• Triangle Button: Grab. Use this to pick up items or grab enemies during a stealth attack.

Interacting#

• R2 Button: Fire your equipped weapon. Remember to aim before you shoot for better accuracy.
• L2 Button: Aim. Make sure you hold this down before pulling the trigger.
• R1 Button: Quick throw. Useful for throwing bricks or bottles to distract or injure enemies.
• L1 Button: Go prone. This helps you move stealthily or hide in tall grass.
• Square Button (Hold): Craft items. You’ll spend a lot of time crafting health kits, Molotovs, and other survival gear.

Inventory Management#

• D-Pad (Up/Down/Left/Right): Quick-select weapons and items. Quickly switch between different weapons and items during combat.
• Touchpad: Opens the main inventory menu. Here you can fully manage your weapons, gear, and crafting supplies.

Stealth and Combat#

• R1 Button (Hold): Listen mode. This lets you detect enemy positions through walls and other obstacles.
• Crouch (Press Circle): Helps you stay hidden and move silently.
• Grab (Press Triangle): Stealth kill an enemy when you are behind them.

Healing and Crafting#

• D-Pad (Up): Use healing item. This saves you in critical situations.
• Craft (Hold Square): Enter crafting mode to make necessary survival items.

Special Modes#

• Photo Mode (Press L3 + R3): Capture stunning in-game moments. While this doesn’t directly affect gameplay, it’s a fun feature to explore.

Tips for Mastering Controls#

1. Practice Makes Perfect: Spend a bit of time in a safe area just moving around, aiming, and practicing your basic actions.
2. Custom Settings: The Last of Us II offers customizable controls. If something feels off, tweak the settings in the options menu.
3. Stay Stealthy: Using crouch and prone is essential. Combine these with the listen mode to navigate safely around enemies.
4. Quick Switch: Get comfortable with the D-Pad for quick access to weapons and items. Your life often depends on quick reflexes.

Understanding these basic controls will set you up for success in The Last of Us II. Memorize them, practice them, and you’ll be well-prepared for the challenges ahead. Ready to face the apocalypse? Just remember, every button press matters. Happy gaming!

Navigating the Game World#

The world of The Last of Us II is vast, detailed, and full of all sorts of dangerous and amazing places to explore. Here’s how you can get the most out of your wandering and make sure you don’t miss anything important.

Using the Map#

Unlike some games, The Last of Us II doesn’t give you a handy-dandy mini-map. Instead, you’ll rely on Ellie’s hand-drawn map of Seattle. Pull it up often (usually with the touchpad on the controller) to get your bearings and see the points of interest you’ve marked along the way. If you find yourself lost, retracing your steps using the map can really help.

Exploring Every Nook and Cranny#

The game rewards curious players. Ammo, crafting materials, and other valuable items are often hidden in less-obvious places. Don’t just stick to the main paths; check out side rooms, back alleys, and basements. Locked doors can sometimes be opened with a good shove or a puzzle, so look for ways in.

Pro Tip: Listen Mode#

Ellie has a special ability called Listen Mode (usually activated with R1), which lets her hear nearby enemies and pick up on other noises. This ability is super handy not just for avoiding or taking out foes, but also for finding things you might’ve otherwise missed. Use it often!

Puzzles and Environmental Clues#

The game world is filled with puzzles that require a bit of thought but are super rewarding to solve. Look for notes, letters, and graffiti—they often contain clues. Pay close attention to your surroundings to spot potential solutions, like ladders you can move or windows you can break to create new paths.

Combat Encounters#

Nearly every environment you explore could potentially turn into a combat arena. Before you move through an area, it’s a good idea to scout ahead using Listen Mode and the environment around you. Use tall grass, shadows, and other cover to your advantage. Strategizing can mean the difference between a smooth encounter and a tough battle.

Interactive Elements and Items#

Sometimes the game will prompt you to interact with something—a door, an object, a ledge. Pay close attention to these prompts; they can lead to hidden areas or necessary progress points. Always be on the lookout for yellow ropes or cables—they often indicate somewhere you can climb or interact.

Collectibles and Artifacts#

As you explore, you’ll come across various collectibles like trading cards, journal entries, and artifacts. These not only add depth to the story but can also provide useful hints and unlockables. Make a habit of picking up and examining everything you find; you never know what tiny detail might make a big difference later.

Safe Cracking#

You’ll often find safes in the game, and they usually contain valuable items. The combinations are typically hidden somewhere nearby, often in notes or environmental hints. Take your time to search; the payout is usually worth it.

Listening to NPC Dialogues#

Your companion characters often have insightful things to say about your current location or situation. Pay attention to what they say and follow any hints they might drop about where to go or what to look for. Sometimes, a casual conversation can point you in the right direction.

Using the Journal#

Ellie’s journal isn’t just for show; it updates with information and sketches as you explore. Make a habit of checking it; sometimes it will give you a fresh perspective on the situation or offer hints for puzzles and objectives. It’s another tool in your exploration arsenal.

Weather and Time of Day#

The game uses weather and time of day to its advantage. Environment will change, and sometimes that means paths that were once closed off might open up. Always be aware of your environment and adapt your strategy accordingly.

Final Thoughts#

Navigating the world in The Last of Us II takes some practice, but the game gives you all the tools you need to become an expert explorer. Pay attention to your map, listen to your surroundings, and never shy away from stepping off the beaten path. You never know what secrets you’ll uncover.

Starting Your First Mission 🚀#

Welcome to The Last of Us Part II! You’ve just stepped into a post-apocalyptic world filled with gripping suspense, dangerous foes, and heartfelt moments. Before diving headfirst into your first mission, let’s go through some essential tips to make your start smoother and more enjoyable.

1. Getting to Know Ellie 🌟#

Your initial playthrough begins with Ellie. She’s tougher than nails and incredibly skilled. Understanding her abilities and controls is your first task:

• Movement: Get comfy with moving around. Use the left joystick to navigate Ellie. Practice moving swiftly in all directions.
• Interacting: Interact with objects and the environment by pressing the triangle button. This includes picking up supplies, opening doors, and climbing ladders.
• Listening Mode: Hold down R1 to activate Listen Mode, which highlights nearby enemies and key objects even through walls. This is crucial in planning your moves.
• Inventory Management: Access your inventory using the touchpad. Make it a habit to check what you’re carrying and craft essentials like health kits and molotovs.

2. Exploring Jackson 🎒#

Jackson, Wyoming, is your starting hub. Take your time here to explore and understand the setting:

• Talk to Characters: Interact with the people around. Conversations provide backstory and tips. Don’t rush, soak in the ambiance.
• Collect Supplies: Look out for supplies scattered around - these are lifesavers. Grab anything you find in drawers, cabinets, and open spaces.
• Practice at the Shooting Range: Jackson’s Training Center has a shooting range where you can fine-tune your aiming skills. Spend some time here to get comfortable with Ellie’s weapons.

3. Getting Your Gear Ready 🔧#

Before heading out, visit the safe house where you can find all your initial mission gear:

• Weapons: You’ll start with a few basic weapons. Make sure you equip them properly. To switch weapons, use the directional pad.
• Crafting Supplies: Get familiar with crafting. Start by making a couple of health kits and molotovs – these will come in handy.
• Upgrade Your Gear: Use the workbenches to upgrade your weapons. Early upgrades like stability and scope can make a significant difference.

4. Understanding Your Objectives 🎯#

Once you’re geared up, it’s time for your first mission objective. This involves:

• Map & Compass: Access your map to understand your surroundings and mission target. The game provides a compass in certain segments to guide you.
• Main Goals: Follow the markers indicating your primary goals. These are usually missions that advance the storyline.
• Side Quests: Don’t overlook side objectives. They can offer valuable resources and additional story content.

5. Stealth and Combat Tips 🕵️⚔️#

The world of The Last of Us Part II requires a blend of stealth and combat skills. Here are a few basic strategies:

• Stealth: Use Listen Mode to plan your approach. Sneak behind enemies for silent takedowns with your knife by pressing the triangle button.
• Avoiding Detection: Stay out of sight. Use the environment – tall grass, behind cars, and inside buildings – to stay hidden.
• Combat: If things get heated, don’t panic. Use cover to avoid bullets. Aim for the head to conserve ammo and end fights quickly. Remember, melee works in a pinch too!

6. Stay Alert and Adapt 🧠🛡️#

Lastly, always stay alert. The Last of Us Part II is unpredictable. Enemies adapt, and situations change rapidly. Keep these pointers in mind:

• Adaptability: Every encounter might be different. Be prepared to switch strategies if needed.
• Observation: Pay close attention to your surroundings. Details can be crucial for survival.
• Health Management: Keep an eye on your health bar. Use health kits wisely, and always be on the lookout for ingredients to craft more.

That’s it! You’re now ready to embark on your first mission in The Last of Us Part II. Stay sharp, be vigilant, and above all, immerse yourself in the journey ahead. Good luck! 🍀

Managing Health and Resources#

In The Last of Us II, managing your health and resources is crucial to staying alive. You’ll face dangerous enemies and limited supplies, so it’s important to make every shot and medkit count. Let’s break down some useful strategies to keep Ellie in tip-top shape.

Health Management#

Healing Items#

• Health Kits: The primary way to heal yourself. Always keep a few on hand! To craft a health kit, you’ll need rags and alcohol.
• Consume Resources Wisely: Use health kits sparingly. If you’re only slightly injured, it might be better to save them for when you’re in dire straits.

Supplements#

Throughout the game, you’ll find supplements that you can use to upgrade Ellie’s abilities, including her maximum health. Don’t neglect these as they can give you that extra edge in tough battles.

• Skill Upgrades: Prioritize skills that bolster your survivability, like increased health, better crafting efficiency, and faster healing.

Resource Management#

Scavenging#

Always be on the lookout for supplies. Here’s what you should focus on:

• Alcohol and Rags: Used for crafting health kits and molotovs.
• Binding and Blades: Essential for making melee weapon upgrades and crafting shivs.
• Explosives and Canisters: Key ingredients for creating bombs, which are perfect for crowd control.
• Ammo: Every bullet counts. Conserve ammo by going for headshots and using melee whenever possible.

Crafting#

Crafting is your lifeline. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Craft Early and Often: Don’t wait until you’re in a pinch to craft health kits or weapon upgrades. Keep your inventory well-stocked.
• Balance Your Needs: Sometimes you’ll need to decide between a health kit and a molotov. Assess your situation—will you need healing soon, or are you about to face a horde?

Inventory Management#

Keeping your inventory organized can make a big difference during combat.

• Pack Smart: Monitor your inventory space and make sure you’re carrying a balanced mix of health kits, ammo, and crafting materials.
• Discard When Necessary: If you’re running low on space, prioritize essentials and discard less critical items. Better yet, try to use items so you’re never maxed out.

Strategic Encounters#

Being strategic in how you tackle encounters can save you loads of resources.

• Stealth First: Whenever possible, use stealth to avoid wasting ammo and health. Silenced weapons and melee takedowns are your best friends.
• Environmental Advantage: Use the environment to your advantage. Bottles and bricks can distract enemies, giving you a chance to sneak by or set up a surprise attack.
• Run When Necessary: Not every fight is worth fighting. If you’re low on supplies or health, sometimes it’s better to retreat and regroup.

Conclusion#

Balancing health and resources in The Last of Us II can be a game-changer. With careful planning and strategic thinking, you can navigate through the toughest sections without constantly running on empty. Stay sharp, keep scavenging, and make every resource count!

Tips for New Players#

Welcome to the heart-pounding world of The Last of Us II! Before you dive headfirst into this thrilling and remarkable journey, here’s a set of valuable tips that will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Explore Every Nook and Cranny#

One of the keys to success in The Last of Us II is thorough exploration. Every corner of this post-apocalyptic world is filled with hidden treasures that can boost your chances of survival. Keep an eye out for:

• Crafting materials: Items like alcohol, rags, blades, and binding are scattered around. Collect these to craft essential supplies.
• Supplements and Parts: Use supplements to upgrade your character’s abilities and parts to enhance your weapons.
• Easter eggs and notes: These add depth to the story and sometimes offer hints or valuable clues.

Stealth is Your Best Friend#

Charging into combat guns blazing might seem tempting, but it’s rarely the best approach. Here’s why sneaking should be your go-to strategy:

• Save resources: Stealth kills are often silent and take up fewer resources, preserving your ammo for when you absolutely need it.
• Assess the situation: By staying hidden, you can watch enemy patterns and plan the best way to take them down.
• Fewer casualties: Avoid getting overwhelmed by groups of enemies by picking them off one by one.

Use tall grass, shadows, and high ground to your advantage. Listen mode (R1) lets you see enemy positions through walls, helping plan your moves better.

Craft Smartly#

Crafting can be a game-changer when you’re in a sticky situation. Always make sure to:

• Prioritize: Healing kits and molotovs are lifesavers, so ensure you have a decent stock.
• Diversify: Have a mix of offensive and defensive items. Smoke bombs can help when you need a quick escape.
• Upgrade your weapons: When you find a workbench, make necessary upgrades to increase weapon efficiency. Focus on enhancing reload speed and capacity initially.

Manage Your Inventory Wisely#

Inventory space can be quite limited, so it’s crucial to use it wisely:

• Stay topped up: Keep an eye on your supplies and ensure you’re not running low on critical items.
• Don’t hoard everything: It’s tempting to gather everything you find, but doing so can clutter your inventory. Be mindful of what you actually need.

Combat Tips#

When you’re inevitably forced into combat, these tips can keep you alive:

• Aim for the head: Headshots deal maximum damage and can take down most enemies quickly.
• Melee wisely: Sometimes, using melee weapons can save bullets for tougher foes. Practice dodging and counterattacking.
• Use the environment: Use cover to avoid getting hit and throw bricks or bottles to distract or stun enemies.

Upgrade Strategically#

Skill trees offer various upgrades, but what should you prioritize?

• Survival: Enhancements that increase your health or improve your stealth abilities are great early choices.
• Crafting: Faster crafting times and the ability to craft additional items come in very handy.
• Weapons: Boosting weapons like the bow (silent and deadly) can greatly impact your success in handling enemies.

Listen to the Story#

Lastly but importantly, immerse yourself in the storyline. Naughty Dog has created a gripping narrative, and paying attention to the details will make your experience richer.

• Conversation cues: Engage in optional dialogues, as they reveal more about the characters and the world.
• Environmental storytelling: Objects, graffiti, and scenes in the environment tell subtle stories—don’t rush past them.