Following the release of “Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception,” Naughty Dog created another PS3-exclusive masterpiece: “The Last of Us.” The game takes place in a post-zombie-apocalyptic world, where a disease is destroying the human race.

The game mostly takes place 20 years after a trigger-happy soldier accidentally kills the main character’s daughter.

In the beginning of the story, Joel – the aforementioned main character – and his newfound partner pursue a man named Robert over stolen goods. Unfortunately, he no longer possesses the stolen property as he sold it to the fireflies. Yet the fireflies refuse to return the weapons unless Joel will escort Ellie – who appears to be the last hope for a cure – to the headquarters of the fireflies.

The controls are strikingly similar to “Uncharted,” so gamers should be able to adapt quickly. In terms of graphics, Naughty Dog really paid attention to detail, making beautiful character models and scenery.

But this game is not a digital postcard – it is a zombie game. The action can be intense at times; the use of gore and vulgar language in these instances captures the stress of the characters. Playing this game at night can make the most courageous players cower in fear.

When the “clickers” are first introduced, they make an eerie clicking noise. They have no facial features and have the appearance of a flower that is made of flesh. If that is not enough to cause some panic, if they get ahold of the player, there are no second chances. That is right have fun at the checkpoint.

The game does have some minor flaws, but none that interfere with the overall experience. One complaint is that the stealth sections can be too difficult to the point to where it can feel unfair. Also, the game’s lighting can be too dark to the extent that visibility is compromised.

Bottom line, “The Last of Us” is a contender for game of the year. It has few flaws and immerses people into the game with an intense atmosphere.