The Last of Us 2 No Return is a challenging roguelike game that demands mastery through repeated attempts. My advice, derived from extensive playtime and hard-earned lessons, aims to provide a solid foundation for new players, minimizing the need for trial and error. Expect frequent deaths as you familiarize yourself with the game’s mechanics. Since each run resets your progress, you’ll consistently start from scratch, striving to reach and defeat the formidable final boss. These tips for The Last Of Us 2 No Return are designed to simplify your journey through the game.
Maximize Preparation in Downtime
In many No Return modes, you’re given short breaks before and after rounds where the action pauses. Use this precious time effectively to gather supplies, craft equipment, and reload your weapons. Once the combat begins, you might find yourself constantly under pressure, which can make it difficult to craft essentials like shivs or collect materials efficiently. In rounds such as Assault, you can strategically extend this preparation time by keeping one enemy alive and avoiding them while you scavenge and get ready for the next wave.
Carefully Assess Encounter Risks and Rewards
When you’re at the planning board and have the option to choose between two different Encounters, it’s crucial to scrutinize the details of each choice. The most rewarding options often come with increased danger. For instance, in the Hunted mode, you might start with enemies already aware of your location, which is typically a scenario to avoid. You’re unlikely to be equipped to handle multiple adversaries at once. Factors like reward multipliers, specific modes, and enemy types should influence your decision. Also, pay attention to mods, as they can significantly alter the gameplay, introducing elements like unexpected molotovs (which are challenging) or slow-motion activation on headshots (which can be beneficial). Weigh all these aspects carefully before making your choice.
Prioritize Relevant Upgrade Paths for Optimal Benefits
There are several Upgrade Paths available as you navigate the route planner. It’s important to choose wisely, considering the equipment and recipes you currently possess. For instance, there’s no benefit in selecting an Upgrade Path for crafting incendiary shells if you don’t have the double-barreled shotgun. While my guide provides detailed information on what each path unlocks, you’ll often find that basic upgrades enhancing crafting efficiency or extending listening mode range are more universally beneficial. These tend to be more valuable than specialized upgrades focused on specific weapons or bombs, which depend on having certain items or resources.
Prioritize Stealth Whenever Possible
“The Last of Us 2” is fundamentally centered around stealth, with combat often involving carefully separating and picking off enemies one at a time. This approach is especially crucial in the No Return mode, where you typically don’t have the ammunition or mobility for prolonged fights against multiple adversaries. Whenever possible, stay hidden and eliminate enemies individually. While some modes, like Hunted, may start with enemies already aware of your location, it’s still possible to re-engage stealthily by relocating and being cautious. Stealth remains your most effective strategy throughout the game.
Keep a Bottle or Brick Handy for Distraction or Attack
Using bottles and bricks as tools for distraction or attack is as effective as ever. They can be used to stun an enemy or to divert their attention to different locations. Given the mode’s permadeath feature, these items become even more crucial. Charging directly at a gun-wielding human enemy is almost always a bad idea due to their increased accuracy, as you’ll likely be shot down quickly.
However, if you find yourself in a tight spot or lacking ranged options, a throwable can be a lifesaver to stun an enemy before closing in for an attack. Additionally, enemies will investigate noises created by thrown objects, allowing you to lure them away or set up traps. This is particularly effective when combined with explosives like pipe bombs or molotovs, and it works well against infected enemies too.
Maximize the Use of a Safe Spot
In certain scenarios, particularly against human enemies, you might discover a location where you can stealthily eliminate an enemy from cover. Often, another enemy will soon walk into the same trap. When you encounter such a spot, exploit it to its fullest potential. With some luck, you can stealthily dispatch multiple enemies from this position, significantly reducing the risk compared to more exposed, direct confrontations. This tactic can be a safer and more efficient way to clear waves of enemies, helping to avoid potentially fatal encounters.
Secure a Long Gun from the Store
The store offers a randomized selection of weapons and gear between rounds. It’s highly advisable to acquire at least one long gun, especially if you’re playing a character who doesn’t start with one. Although these tend to be the most expensive items and may deplete your funds, the added range or firepower they provide is invaluable in later rounds and crucial for the boss fight. My personal preference is the crossbow, particularly when it’s available. When equipped with a scope, its ability to silently execute headshots from a distance can significantly alter the dynamics of the game.
Avoid Carrying Multiple Guns Without Quick-Change Holsters
Carrying various types of guns, like a pistol and a hunting pistol, is feasible in “The Last of Us 2 No Return.” However, it becomes risky if you don’t have a holster for swift weapon switching. Without a quick-change holster, you’re forced to rely on the slower process of swapping weapons from your bag, which requires several precious seconds of downtime. This can be manageable if you have the opportunity and space to switch safely. But if you’re in a tight spot, the risk of being caught with an empty weapon and no time to switch can be fatal. It’s crucial to consider this when managing your arsenal to avoid dangerous situations.
Prepare Early for the Inevitable Boss Fight
In “The Last of Us 2 No Return,” each round culminates in a boss fight, with the bosses varying in each run and a random selection from the full range becoming available upon unlocking. It’s crucial to be strategically prepared for these final battles. Start gearing up a few rounds in advance – gather pipe bombs, secure at least one high-powered weapon, and stock up on ammunition. Prioritize tangible items over crafting recipes, as these boss encounters are intense and leave little room for crafting essentials during the fight. If you’re approaching the final 2-3 rounds before the boss, it’s a good time to focus your resources at the shop exclusively on preparing for this climactic showdown.
Discover the gaming world through the eyes of Ana Luíza, the dynamic force behind howtoplay.blog. From a casual player to a respected author and redactor, Ana’s journey is a testament to her passion. Her writings transcend ordinary guides, offering deep insights and connecting every type of gamer with the essence of virtual adventures.
