Naughty Dog Games With The Best Stories, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Naughty Dog shifted from platformers to story-driven games, making a name for themselves in the modern era.
Uncharted and The Last of Us stand out in PlayStation lineup as games with solid stories and great gameplay.
Each game in Naughty Dog’s catalog offers unique narratives, from coming-of-age tales to post-apocalyptic stories.

As a longtime gamer and a connoisseur of narrative-driven experiences, I must say that Naughty Dog’s catalog is a testament to storytelling excellence. However, if I were to pick my favorite from their masterpieces, it would have to be The Last of Us.

Initially, Naughty Dog was renowned for creating some of the best platforming games, notably the earlier versions of Jak and Daxter and Crash Bandicoot. Yet, over time, they shifted their focus to producing games that emphasized spectacle and narrative, a move that has significantly elevated their status in the contemporary gaming world.

Both “Uncharted” and “The Last of Us,” two standout titles from the PlayStation library, consistently deliver exceptional gaming experiences. While every game developed by Naughty Dog is entertaining, it’s undeniable that some of them boast the most compelling narratives, not just within the PlayStation universe, but across the broader video game landscape as a whole.

5 Jak and Daxter 2

The Gold Standard of Platformers

The Jak and Daxter series is recognized as one of the top platforming games available today. The original game boasted a robust narrative, emphasizing humor and vibrant environments. However, in contrast to its predecessor, Jak 2 took things a step further. While maintaining its comedic elements (thanks to Daxter), this sequel presented a far more somber and realistic plotline. Although some may find this change in tone disconcerting, it effectively enhances the overall gameplay experience.

In “Jak 2”, the game serves as a pivotal point in both the franchise’s development and Jak’s personal growth. The gameplay has been significantly improved and expanded upon, but it’s the story that takes center stage now. Jak becomes more rugged and confronts real-world issues, and by the middle of the game, there are numerous unexpected events that make it engaging and thrilling. Daxter complements Jak perfectly throughout the game, and overall, “Jak 2” boasts a well-rounded yet daring narrative.

4 Uncharted 2

The Complete Package

As a diehard fan, I firmly believe that among all the masterpieces Naughty Dog Games has created, Uncharted 2 truly shines as their crowning achievement and ranks as one of the most exceptional action games from the 2000s. The game is renowned for its mind-blowing, pulse-pounding action sequences, jaw-dropping cinematics, and robust gunplay mechanics. But what sets it apart is its compelling narrative. Although it may not fit the mold of a traditional ‘good story’ game, it masterfully combines action and adventure with an abundance of emotional depth.

In this game, we join swashbuckler Nathan Drake two years after his initial escapade. It offers a thrilling experience reminiscent of spy films, complete with deceitful double crosses, a global expedition, and an array of lovable sidekicks. The storyline primarily focuses on a worldwide quest to discover and safeguard the city of Shambala, which is skillfully woven with numerous surprises, humor, and unexpected twists. What makes this game stand out is its exceptional cast, including Elena, Chloe, Schafer, and Tenzig, each character being delightful, driven by authentic motivations, and well-crafted in their writing.

3 The Last of Us 2

An Ambitious Yet Rewarding Sequel

The Last of Us Part II is a remarkable game, yet it has sparked much debate due to certain radical plot decisions made by Naughty Dog Games. Although it may not reach the heights of their top two narrative masterpieces, it remains an outstanding game on its own merits and effectively builds upon its predecessor. The Last of Us Part II is a daring endeavor that generally lives up to expectations, but falls short in delivering some key climactic moments.

In “The Last of Us Part II,” the narrative centers around themes such as revenge, self-interest, relinquishment, and finding a delicate equilibrium between personal needs and sacrifices for others. This story is a somber one, brimming with sorrow, demise, and brutality. The players are introduced to Ellie from the initial game, who grapples with her grief and carves out a solitary existence, as well as Abby, a significant character on a parallel journey. The game skillfully continues its gripping debut, leading players through a disheartening and gloomy journey, revealing the harsh realities of the world Ellie inhabits. Although it excels in its challenging objective, the climax falls short of the high expectations set by the anticipation, which is why it won’t secure the top two positions in Naughty Dog’s library.

2 Uncharted 4

Nathan Drake’s Beautiful Swan Song

This game revolves around the legendary treasure hunt of Henry Avery’s ill-fated utopia, Libertalia. The persistent pursuit of this mythical island by Nathan Drake, his brother, and their friend Sully is contrasted with their personal lives. While Nathan enjoys a contented family life, an exhilarating profession, and overall a quite enjoyable existence, he comes close to sacrificing it all for the thrill of another adventure.

Players are given a cinematic journey unsurpassed since the launch of Uncharted 4, eight years ago. The game effectively conveys that Nathan’s thirst for adventure borders on selfishness, making players occasionally feel remorseful for neglecting Elena. The stark contrast between Sam, Nate, and the abandoned pirate utopia they seek creates a compelling narrative. This installment served as a fitting conclusion to an adored series, offering valuable insights into what constitutes a great story.

1 The Last of Us

A Tale of Tragedy and Hope

As a gamer, I’d say that for me, The Last of Us just barely nudges Uncharted 4 as Naughty Dog’s finest narrative masterpiece. This game set new standards in its genre and remains deeply cherished among gamers as one of the greatest ever produced. What sets The Last of Us apart is not just its post-apocalyptic setting or its reluctant hero, but how flawlessly it executes every aspect. It’s a game that still resonates strongly with me.

In every moment Joel and Ellie share, there’s significance; each word they exchange contributes to the larger storyline of the game. As players watch, Joel – a complex character with a history of errors and questionable morals – gradually rediscovers what it means to be human and learns to care for another being again. The heart-wrenching ending is also noteworthy in this journey.

2024-08-29 02:34