Zero Punctuation Season 10 Episode 20 Uncharted 4: A Thief's End

In this episode of Zero Punctuation, Yahtzee reviews the highly anticipated Uncharted 4: A Thief's End. He begins by acknowledging the established formula and fan base of the Uncharted series, which centers around treasure hunting and cinematic action sequences. Yahtzee notes that the previous games have been successful at providing a fun, albeit predictable, experience.

However, he immediately points out that Uncharted 4 does things differently. The game is set three years after the events of the previous entry, and protagonist Nathan Drake has settled down into a more domesticated lifestyle. Yahtzee praises the game's opening scenes for subverting player expectations and adding depth to the series' main character.

After playing through the game's early levels, Yahtzee remarks that Uncharted 4 feels like it has a stronger emphasis on exploration and puzzle-solving. The game's environments are larger, allowing players to find hidden treasures and areas, and the puzzles require more critical thinking than previous entries. Yahtzee acknowledges that some players may find these changes frustrating, as they can slow down the game's pace.

Moving on to the game's combat, Yahtzee notes that it has been refined and feels more satisfying than in previous games. The inclusion of a grappling hook and stealth mechanics add more variety to the gameplay and allow players to approach encounters in different ways. However, Yahtzee criticizes the game's checkpoint system, which can sometimes force players to replay long sections of gameplay if they die.

Yahtzee also praises the game's writing and character development, especially in regards to Nathan's relationship with his brother, Sam. He notes that the plot feels more personal and grounded than in previous games, and the cast of supporting characters are all likable and well-developed.

In terms of presentation, Yahtzee has nothing but praise for Uncharted 4. The game is visually stunning, with detailed environments and character animations. The sound design and voice acting are also top-notch, helping to sell the game's cinematic set-pieces.

Overall, Yahtzee considers Uncharted 4 to be a triumph. He acknowledges that it may not be for everyone, particularly those who prefer the more action-oriented gameplay of previous entries. However, he feels that the game's emphasis on exploration, puzzle-solving, and character development make it a memorable and satisfying experience. Yahtzee concludes his review by urging players to give Uncharted 4 a chance, even if they are not typically fans of the series.