Ellie and Abby’s stories hit differently when you experience them in the order they actually happened. Naughty Dog just dropped a free update that rearranges the timeline so you can see the narrative unfold without flashbacks. Plus, there are new skins and trophies to unlock. Let’s dive in.
Why Chronological Mode Matters
Players used to the original jumpy storytelling know how scenes cut back and forth. Chronological mode rearranges levels so events unfold linearly—Ellie learning guitar before she plays it, Abby’s path overlapping Ellie’s in real time.
- Reveals cause and effect clearly
- Highlights parallels between Ellie and Abby
- Strengthens emotional impact
This isn’t just fancy editing. It reevaluates the pacing and emotional weight of one of gaming’s most debated narratives.
What’s Included in the Free Update
This is more than just a reordered map of levels—it’s got extras.
- Chronological story mode
- New unlockable skins
- Additional trophies
You’ll see how this timeline affects your view of Ellie and Abby. Enjoy the new skins in Photo Mode and chase those trophies too.
How It Changes Your Experience
The switch isn’t just cosmetic—it offers insight. Ellie’s musical journey clicks into place, Abby’s motivations sync up, and their eventual clash gains new context.
- Guitar lessons before performances feel earned
- Parallel paths become clearer
- Emotional beats land differently
This rewrite doesn’t change the story—it highlights connections that might’ve been missed.
Context in the Bigger Remastered Package
Chronological mode is the latest addition to an already jam-packed remastered edition:
- Native 4K, faster load times, DualSense support
- New modes: No Return, Guitar Free Play, Lost Levels, commentaries,
- PC release on April 3, 2025 via Steam/Epic
Each feature adds replay value, and Chronological mode gives it fresh life.
What It Means for You
If you’ve played before, this is a chance to revisit with new eyes. For new players, it’s an alternative path—though the classic non-linear mode is still the strongest way to feel the original impact.
- Returning players: a new lens on familiar events
- First-timers: you can choose your preferred order
- Completionists: fresh challenges with skins and trophies
Summary
Naughty Dog’s update adds a new storytelling tool that reorders The Last of Us Part II Remastered into one smooth chronological arc. It comes with cosmetic rewards and enhances an already strong remaster. Whether you’re revisiting or jumping in, it’s worth a spin.
FAQs
Can I switch between Chronological and original mode?
Yes. Chronological is just an optional mode; the original non-linear structure is still available.
Is Chronological mode available on PC?
Yes. It’s part of the free update on PS5 and PC.
Do trophies carry over from original playthrough?
Yes, unlocked skins and trophies from Chronological mode are available alongside your existing ones.
