Thinking Of Upgrading From Ps3 To Ps5 Is The Ps5 Really Worth It For The Last Of Us

For many gamers, The Last of Us isn’t just a game—it’s a defining moment in storytelling, atmosphere, and emotional depth in interactive media. Originally released on the PlayStation 3 in 2013, the franchise has evolved dramatically across generations. If you’re still playing on a PS3 and considering an upgrade to the PS5 specifically to experience The Last of Us, the answer isn’t just about hardware—it’s about how deeply you want to re-engage with this world.

The leap from PS3 to PS5 isn’t incremental; it’s transformative. But is that transformation meaningful enough to justify the cost of a new console? Let’s break down what changes when you move from one generation to the next, especially for a narrative-driven masterpiece like The Last of Us.

Visual Fidelity: A Night-and-Day Difference

The most immediate difference between playing The Last of Us on PS3 versus PS5 is visual quality. On the original release, textures were compressed due to storage limitations, lighting was limited by hardware capabilities, and the resolution topped out at 720p with inconsistent frame rates. Fast forward to the PS5 version—specifically The Last of Us Part I (2022 remake)—and everything has been rebuilt from the ground up using Naughty Dog’s modern engine.

This isn’t a simple remaster. It’s a full reimagining. Environments are denser, character models feature lifelike skin textures and micro-expressions, and dynamic lighting creates immersive realism. Shadows fall naturally, rain glistens on Joel’s jacket, and facial animations during dialogue scenes convey subtle emotions that weren’t possible in 2013.

Tip: Play the PS5 version with headphones. The enhanced audio design adds layers of environmental detail—dripping water, distant growls, whispered lines—that deepen immersion.

Performance and Gameplay Experience

Beyond visuals, the PS5 delivers tangible improvements in responsiveness and fluidity. The original PS3 version ran at a target of 30 frames per second but frequently dipped below that during intense sequences. Loading times could stretch into 30 seconds or more, breaking momentum between chapters.

In contrast, the PS5 version runs at a locked 60fps in performance mode (with a 30fps cinematic option), ensuring buttery-smooth animation. Thanks to the ultra-fast SSD, loading times are nearly eliminated—transitioning from menu to gameplay takes under five seconds. Even fast travel within levels feels instantaneous.

Additionally, the DualSense controller introduces haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. When drawing your bow, you feel increasing resistance in the trigger. Walking through snow produces a soft rumble distinct from pavement. These aren’t gimmicks—they integrate tactile feedback that makes combat and exploration more visceral.

“Rebuilding The Last of Us wasn’t about nostalgia. It was about giving players the experience we always envisioned, constrained only by technology of the time.” — Neil Druckmann, Creative Director, Naughty Dog

Game Version Comparison: What You’re Actually Upgrading To

It’s important to clarify exactly what version of The Last of Us you’ll be playing on PS5. There are two key releases:

• The Last of Us Remastered (PS4): An improved port of the PS3 original, running at 1080p/60fps.
• The Last of Us Part I (PS5, 2022): A complete ground-up remake with new engine, voice acting, and mechanics.

If you're upgrading from PS3, the 2022 remake is the definitive way to play. It includes updated AI behaviors, refined stealth mechanics, and accessibility options like high-contrast modes and text-to-speech—features that make the game more inclusive and enjoyable.

Feature	PS3 (2013)	PS5 (2022 Remake)
Resolution	720p (dynamic)	Up to 4K
Frame Rate	~30fps (unstable)	60fps (locked)
Loading Time	20–40 seconds	2–5 seconds
Audio	5.1 Surround (optional)	Tempest 3D AudioTech
Controller Feedback	Rumble only	Haptics + Adaptive Triggers
Accessibility Features	Limited	Extensive (subtitles, input remapping, etc.)

Real Example: A Longtime Fan Revisits the Game

Consider Mark, a fan who first played The Last of Us on PS3 in 2014. He remembered the story vividly—the emotional weight of Joel and Ellie’s journey—but recalled technical frustrations: long load screens, blurry textures, and occasional glitches. When he upgraded to PS5 in 2023, he decided to replay the game through the new remake.

Within minutes, he noticed the difference. “The first time Ellie laughed, I stopped. Her face moved so naturally—I forgot I was playing a game,” he said. During a tense encounter in a derelict mall, the creak of floorboards echoed differently in each ear thanks to 3D audio. The tension was sharper, more personal. For Mark, the remake didn’t just update the graphics—it deepened his emotional connection to the narrative.

He completed the game in six sessions instead of ten, not because it was shorter, but because the flow felt uninterrupted. No waiting, no crashing, no distractions. The PS5 let the story breathe.

Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Practical Checklist

Deciding whether to upgrade depends on your priorities. Use this checklist to evaluate your situation:

1. ✅ Have you already experienced the original PS3 version and want a fresh, deeper immersion?
2. ✅ Do you value visual and audio fidelity as part of storytelling?
3. ✅ Are you looking for smoother performance and faster load times?
4. ✅ Do you own a 4K TV or high-quality sound system?
5. ✅ Are you open to experiencing modern accessibility features?
6. ✅ Can you access the PS5 version without repurchasing (via PS Plus Premium or ownership)?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the upgrade is likely worth it. However, if you’re primarily interested in the story and don’t mind older visuals, the PS3 version still holds up narratively. But keep in mind: Sony will eventually phase out online services for PS3, and hardware reliability decreases over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my PS3 save data to the PS5 version?

No. The 2022 remake is a completely separate build, and save transfers from PS3 or even PS4 versions are not supported. You’ll need to start fresh.

Do I need to buy both The Last of Us Part I and Part II to get the full story?

Yes. While Part I retells the original game, Part II continues the narrative. To experience the complete journey, both games are recommended. The PS5 versions of both titles showcase the console’s capabilities at their peak.

Is the PS5 version harder than the PS3 original?

No, difficulty settings are similar, but enemy AI has been slightly refined for more realistic behavior. However, accessibility options allow you to adjust combat assistance, aim damping, and puzzle visibility, making it easier to tailor the challenge to your preference.

Final Verdict: More Than Just a Console Upgrade

Upgrading from PS3 to PS5 for The Last of Us isn’t merely about newer hardware—it’s about experiencing a landmark title as it was meant to be seen and felt. The PS5 doesn’t just run the game better; it recontextualizes it. Every footstep, whisper, and heartbeat is rendered with precision that pulls you deeper into the world.

If you love this game and want to reconnect with it in the most powerful way possible, the PS5 delivers. The combination of 4K visuals, 60fps performance, immersive audio, and DualSense feedback transforms a decade-old story into something profoundly current.

And beyond The Last of Us, the PS5 opens doors to other narrative masterpieces like Ghost of Tsushima, Marvel’s Spider-Man, and Horizon Forbidden West—all benefiting from the same generational leap.

💬 Have you made the jump from PS3 to PS5 for The Last of Us? Share your experience, favorite moments, or questions in the discussion—your insight could help others decide their next move.