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Video games keep on getting better and better as time goes by, making improvements in all areas providing fun experiences and entertainment that we thirst for. However, every few years one game seems to stand out among the rest, and “Uncharted 4” is that game. Naughty Dog have done it again a released another breath-taking game that will be a talking point for quite some time. Complete with spectacular visuals, brilliant story and game play, this is a game that any PS4 owner should have in their library.

Addressing the elephant in the room, “Uncharted 4″’s visuals are above and beyond any game on the market right now, nothing comes close. The breath-taking environments, the character animations, transitions from cut scenes into gameplay are just amazing. “Uncharted 4” left me with my jaw dropped countless times during my play through; it’s hard to believe that this game is running on PS4, in-game graphics.

Nathan Drake is ready for yet another adventure. But are YOU ready for it?

The attention to detail is amazing; at a technical level “Uncharted 4” have raised the bar and sets a new standard. I witnessed barley any frame drops, and it appears to stick to a solid 30FPS. The visuals also truly show the characters emotions, even just subtle movements you can tell what they’re thinking or feeling, which really adds to both the story telling and character development.

The story is what you expect from an “Uncharted” game, there’s a treasure. And it needs finding! Nathan Drake abandons his simple life to aid his brother Sam in finding some long-lost pirate treasure worth millions, reminded me of the film “The Goonies” only with more luxurious scenery! From start to finish you get to travel to some gorgeous places such as a tropical island, Madagascar and even Scotland! Of course Sully is there to help Nath and Sam on their adventure. Like most movies, a story is only as good as its villain and “Uncharted 4” have two, Wraith who will stop at nothing to get what he wants and Nadine Ross a private military leader. There are some incredible moments that take place throughout this game which I’m not going to spoil here.

Just look at that face! Gorgeous…

The Gameplay has been reformed and feels fresh and current compared to the previous games in the series. Some areas are more open than others enabling for some free roaming. Drake now has a grapple hook giving you more options to for maneuverability, even during firefights you can grapple to a point, jump and punch someone in the face, it looks cool and feels cool doing it! Enemies are fairly varied; you’ll spend most of the time fighting Nadine’s hired guns. And on harder difficulties, they can be a real pain in the a***. As they spit-out grenades and soaks up bullets like a T1000.

So it can be pretty frustrating at times, but there is an aim assist for those struggling to hit the mark! However, It’s not all guns blazing. As there are some quiet moments to be found in the game as well, where you simply explore or climb through various environments. Sure, to some it will feel like padding, but to me, it gave emphasis to Drake’s journey and what he has to go through to get there. And you’re with him every moment, and he’s without a doubt one of PlayStation’s most iconic characters. The game can be beaten in around 12 to 14 hours, but that’s not taking into account for 100% completion for all collectables and secrets.

What’s an adventure game without a car chase?

The in-game sound is also at a fantastic standard, because not only are two of the most talented voice actors in the world lending their voices to Nathan and Sam (Nolan North and Troy Baker). The sound effects are as close to perfect as one could get, and that goes for everything from explosions to birds tweeting. The level of immersion is on point, whether you’re playing from a TV or a gaming headset, it’s a satisfying experience. The musical score is brilliant as well. And Nathan’s theme is one of my most loved pieces of gaming music and there’s a lovely mix throughout the game of gentle and intense moments.

“Uncharted 4” is also packed with content, there’s a photo mode so you can put your photographer skills to the test and capture some of the most stunning moments in-game. There are various bonus options you can activate (which can affect your game such as Slow Motion and cell shaded visuals), there’s a character viewer, lots of collectables and multi-player! Multi-player hasn’t been treated like an afterthought either; the maps are varied and detailed. And the firefights are fast and frantic and there are lots to unlock. And the characters can be fully customised. It’s pretty fun too. I’ve not enjoyed a 3rd person shooter this much since Gears of War.

Yes, the world of “Uncharted 4” actually looks this good.

“Uncharted 4” is a fine example of what AAA games should be, visually stunning and immersive, with an interesting with a cast of lovable (and detestable) characters. This is a game any PS4 owner should own, in fact, if you don’t own a PS4. Then it might be time to consider picking one up because this is not a game to be missed, as “Uncharted 4” is nothing less than pure Gaming excellence.

Pros:
+ STUNNING!
+ Incredible action
+ Great sound design & voice acting

Cons:
– It Ends
– Bullet sponge enemies

Gameplay: 5/5
Graphics: 5/5
Sound/music: 5/5
Controls: 5/5
Replay value: 5/5

tgg grade 5 out of 5

Verdict: 5/5
“Uncharted 4” is with no doubt the greatest game on the PlayStation 4, and arguably one of the best games of all time. Simply put, this is what the ultimate gaming experience should be all about.

Title: Uncharted 4
Developer: Naughty Dog
Format: PS4
Genre: Action/Adventure
Resolution: 1080p
Release date: 2016-05-10
Difficulty: Easy to very Hard
Spent time: +15 Hours
Average grade internationally: 70.00% Gamerankings.com
PEGI age rating: 16
Price: £40+