Naughty Dog’s controversial sequel that divided gamers. Announced PSX December 2016, released June 19, 2020, won GOTY at TGA 2020, sold 10 million copies despite player backlash.
Unprecedented Polarization
Critics loved it (93 Metacritic), players divisive (5.7 user score). Story decisions—Joel’s death, Abby playable protagonist, Ellie’s revenge arc—created passionate debates. Review bombing, death threats to cast/developers, “Part II is not canon” campaigns.
Critical Acclaim
GOTY at TGA, BAFTA, GDC, DICE. 300+ awards total. Praised for accessibility options (60+ settings), graphics, animation, stealth combat. Called “most accessible game ever made.”
Cultural Debate
Became flashpoint for gaming culture wars. Themes of revenge, cycles of violence, moral ambiguity split audiences. The hashtag reflects both sides: “masterpiece” vs “disrespectful to original.” HBO adaptation (2023) reignited discussions.