The modding scene for console exclusive titles isn’t exactly at the same level that it is for PC games, but that doesn’t mean the community completely keeps itself out of PS4 exclusives likeThe Last of Us 2. A recent example of theLast of Usmodding communityhard at work has produced a video of a fan-favorite character becoming playable in Naughty Dog’s 2020 title.
This latest mod forThe Last of Us 2comes from YouTuber Smasher248, who has been periodically updating new videos of the process for the past few weeks. So far, fans can see the alterations done to bring a character that some were hoping to play as in a number of different circumstances, including combat and exploring through the game’s extensive maps.
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With this new mod, players can play as Joel, theprotagonist of the originalLast of Us, as a bit of a way to balance out the short-lived run that the character had in last year’s sequel. The footage Smasher248 has shared so far shows off Joel in a couple different sections of the game, including Eastbrook Elementary and a watchtower gate from Seattle Day 1. There are even multiple variants of Joel to choose from, so players can get a similarly evolving experience with these different models as was available in the official release for Ellie’s storyline.
Some of the new outfits available with this model swapping mod include versions of Joel from the originalThe Last of Us, giving players a somewhat younger option to take through the game. However, since the mod is mostly a model swap, there are a few smaller details that don’t mesh perfectly, specifically in the way animations work between the differently sized models. Granted, these minute animations can be the types of thing that takesNaughty Dog the longest to get right inThe Last of Us 2.
The original modder hasn’t made it clear yet if there will be a public release of this playable version of Joel for fans to get a chance to run through the new game with the previous protagonist. From what Smasher248 has shown so far, the mod is still being tested to see if it works in different combat encounters, so it might be some time before fans can have a crack at the new choice in character. Still, some fans commenting on the video have mentioned how cathartic it is to just see Joel gunning downdroves ofThe Last of Us 2’s enemies, especially the Wolves.
The Last of Us 2is available now for PS4.
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