Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Gameplay Video
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Key Specifications
Specification | Detail |
---|---|
Engine | Naughty Dog Game Engine |
Genre | Action-Adventure, Third-Person Shooter, Platformer, Stealth |
Initial Release | 2016-05-10 (PS4), 2022-10-19 (PC - Legacy of Thieves Collection) |
Developer | Naughty Dog, Iron Galaxy (PC Port) |
Publisher | Sony Interactive Entertainment |
Setting | Various Globe-Trotting Locations (Panama, Italy, Scotland, Madagascar, Libertalia) |
Perspective | Third-Person |
Platforms | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 (Legacy of Thieves Collection), PC (Windows - Legacy of Thieves Collection) |
Multiplayer | Competitive & Cooperative (Original PS4 release). Single-player only in Legacy of Thieves Collection. |
Unique Feature | Cinematic Storytelling, Grappling Hook Mechanics, Wide-Linear Level Design, Lifelike Character Animation & Performances, Stunning Visuals. |
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End System Requirements
Target_720p_30FPS_Medium
tune Minimum (720p ~30 FPS, Medium Preset) – Medium Preset
Target_1080p_30FPS_High
tune Recommended (1080p ~30 FPS, High Preset) – High Preset
Target_1080p_60FPS_Performance
tune Performance (1080p ~60 FPS, High Preset using Performance Upscaling/Settings) – High Preset (Tweaked for performance, DLSS/FSR Performance may be needed)
Target_1440p_60FPS_Ultra
tune Ultra (1440p ~60 FPS, Ultra Preset, DLSS/FSR Quality/Balanced) – Ultra Preset (DLSS/FSR Quality or Balanced recommended)
Target_4K_60FPS_Ultimate
tune Ultimate (2160p/4K ~60 FPS, Ultra Preset, DLSS/FSR Balanced/Performance) – Ultra Preset, DLSS/FSR Balanced or Performance
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Laptop Recommendations
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Core Requirements
- desktop_windowsOperating System: Windows 10 (64-bit, version 1909 or newer)
64-bit Windows 10 (specified version or newer) or Windows 11 is required.
- memoryDirectX: DirectX 12
DirectX 12 API is required.
- save_altStorage Note: 126 GB available space (SSD Recommended).
An NVMe SSD is highly recommended for the best experience, minimizing load times and improving texture streaming in detailed environments.
settings_applications Optimization Notes:
Upscaling: Supports NVIDIA DLSS 2 and AMD FSR 2.0.
Key Settings: Texture Quality, Model Quality, Shadow Quality, Reflections, Ambient Occlusion, Anisotropic Filtering, and Character Detail heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is recommended for higher resolutions/settings.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End: Post-Launch Content / DLC
The primary post-launch content was the standalone story expansion 'Uncharted: The Lost Legacy' (starring Chloe Frazer and Nadine Ross), which was also included in the 'Legacy of Thieves Collection'. The original PS4 version of Uncharted 4 received numerous free updates for its multiplayer mode, including new maps, modes, weapons, and cosmetic items. No single-player story DLC directly for Nathan Drake's Uncharted 4 story was released.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Skills & Upgrades Overview
Uncharted 4 does not feature a traditional RPG skill tree or extensive character stat upgrades for Nathan Drake. Progression is primarily through acquiring new weapons and gear found in levels or dropped by enemies. There are no craftable upgrades for Nate's personal abilities. Gameplay mastery comes from improving player skill in combat, stealth, platforming, and puzzle-solving. Some weapon 'upgrades' are simply finding more powerful versions or attachments. The grappling hook is a key new tool that enhances traversal and combat options.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End: Game Editions
Available in Standard Edition, Special Edition (SteelBook, artbook, Naughty Dog points), Libertalia Collector's Edition (12" Nathan Drake statue, SteelBook, artbook, Naughty Dog points, sticker sheet, multiplayer outfits/weapon skins). Later released as part of the 'Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection' for PS5 and PC, which also includes 'Uncharted: The Lost Legacy' and features enhanced graphics and performance options.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End: Cross-Platform / Crossplay
Uncharted 4's original multiplayer mode on PS4 did not feature cross-platform play. The 'Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection' (which includes Uncharted 4's single-player) does not have multiplayer. The game is single-player focused on PC and PS5 in this collection.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Specific Game Elements
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Weapons
- securityExplosives (Grenades, Dynamite, Propane Tanks) (Throwable / Environmental)
Standard grenades and dynamite can be thrown. Red propane tanks or barrels in the environment can be shot to cause large explosions.
- securityHeavy Weapons (e.g., RPG-7, China Lake GL, DShK) (Primary Firearm (Explosive/High Power))
Powerful weapons like rocket launchers, grenade launchers, and mounted machine guns encountered in specific sections or dropped by heavy enemies.
- securityLong Guns (Assault Rifles, e.g., AK-47, FAL, Mettler M-30, HS39) (Primary Firearm (Automatic/Burst))
Versatile automatic or burst-fire rifles suitable for most combat encounters at medium range. Common enemy drops.
- securityMelee (Fists, Environmental Objects, Grappling Hook Takedowns) (Close Quarters Combat)
Nate can engage in hand-to-hand combat with punches, grapples, and environmental takedowns. The grappling hook can also be used for aerial melee attacks.
- securityPistols (e.g., Para .45, Aegis 9mm, Raffica, Fossa R-81) (Sidearm (Semi-Auto, Burst, Automatic))
Reliable sidearms for various situations. Can be used while hanging, swimming, or for quick shots. Some are fully automatic.
- securityRevolvers (e.g., Barok .44) (Sidearm (High Damage))
Powerful handguns dealing significant damage per shot, but with slower fire rates and smaller capacities.
- securityShotguns (e.g., Spezzotti 12 Gauge, Condor, Flanker) (Primary Firearm (Close Quarters))
Devastating at close range. Includes pump-action, double-barreled, and semi-automatic variants.
- securitySniper Rifles (e.g., M14 Custom, Nagant Mosin, Mazur LDR) (Primary Firearm (Long Range, Precision))
Used for taking out enemies from a distance with high precision. Some are bolt-action, others semi-automatic.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Vehicles
- directions_carEnemy Vehicles (Trucks, APC-like vehicles) (Hostile Land Vehicles)
Shoreline mercenaries utilize various vehicles, including pickup trucks with mounted guns and armored personnel carrier-like vehicles, which often feature in combat encounters or chase sequences. Nate typically destroys these rather than driving them for extended periods.
- directions_carGrappling Hook (Traversal Tool, not a vehicle) (Personal Traversal Gear)
While not a vehicle, the grappling hook is a key traversal tool that allows Nate to swing across large gaps, rappel up and down cliffs, and perform dynamic maneuvers, significantly expanding his movement capabilities.
- directions_carJeep (4x4) (Land Vehicle (Off-Road))
A rugged jeep used by Nate, Sam, and Sully for traversing the expansive plains and muddy tracks of Madagascar. Features a winch that can be used to pull down structures, create paths, or pull the jeep up steep inclines.
- directions_carMotorboat (Watercraft)
A small motorboat used for navigating the waters around the islands leading to Libertalia. Allows for exploration of coves, beaches, and underwater areas (for diving).
- directions_carMotorcycle (Briefly) (Land Vehicle (Two-Wheeled))
Featured in a high-speed chase sequence during the Madagascar market escape. Player control is part of this scripted set-piece.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Characters
- personCaptain Henry Avery (Historical Figure) - Legendary Pirate Captain
The infamous pirate captain whose legendary treasure is the object of the game's central quest. His story and the fate of Libertalia are key to the narrative.
- personElena Fisher - Ally / Nate's Wife / Journalist
Nate's resourceful and intelligent wife, a successful journalist. She is initially unaware of Nate's return to adventure but eventually gets involved, serving as his moral compass and a capable partner.
- personEvelyn (Mentioned) - Historical Figure / Pirate Captain's Associate
A historical figure connected to Captain Henry Avery and the founding of Libertalia, whose story and clues are uncovered by the Drakes.
- personNadine Ross - Secondary Antagonist / Leader of Shoreline
The pragmatic and highly skilled leader of Shoreline, a South African private military company hired by Rafe Adler. A formidable combatant and tactician.
- personNathan 'Nate' Drake - Protagonist / Retired Treasure Hunter (playable)
The charismatic and adventurous protagonist. Now attempting a normal life with Elena, he is pulled back into treasure hunting by the reappearance of his long-lost brother, Sam. Known for his wit, resilience, and incredible luck.
- personRafe Adler - Main Antagonist / Wealthy Treasure Hunter
A wealthy, ruthless, and obsessive treasure hunter who was once partnered with the Drake brothers. He feels betrayed and entitled to Avery's treasure, employing the Shoreline mercenary group to achieve his goals.
- personSamuel 'Sam' Drake - Deuteragonist / Nate's Older Brother / Treasure Hunter
Nate's older brother, previously presumed dead. His return and desperate situation ignite the quest for Avery's treasure. He is more reckless and obsessed with treasure than Nate.
- personVarious Shoreline Mercenaries & Other Minor NPCs - Enemies / Supporting Cast
The game features numerous unnamed Shoreline mercenaries as common enemies, as well as other minor characters encountered during Nate's journey.
- personVictor 'Sully' Sullivan - Ally / Mentor / Treasure Hunter
Nate's long-time mentor, father figure, and partner in adventure. A seasoned treasure hunter, Sully provides support, resources, and wise counsel (and often a seaplane).
Top 3 Characters (Subjective):
Drake: The charismatic, witty, and everyman treasure hunter, facing his most personal adventure and grappling with the desire for a normal life versus the pull of adventure. 2. Samuel 'Sam' Drake: Nate's older brother, whose return sets the plot in motion. His complex motivations, shared history with Nate, and desperation drive much of the narrative. 3. Elena Fisher: Nate's wife, a resourceful journalist. She is intelligent, capable, and serves as Nate's moral compass and emotional anchor, playing a crucial role in the story's resolution.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Missions / Objectives
- flagFlashback Sequences
Objective: Several chapters are flashbacks depicting earlier events in Nate and Sam's lives, such as their time in a Panamanian prison or their childhood in an orphanage. These provide crucial backstory and character development.
- flagMajor Set-Piece Encounters
Objective: Spectacular, highly scripted action sequences that serve as climactic moments within chapters. Examples include the Madagascar jeep chase, collapsing clock tower escape, ballroom brawl, ship graveyard battle, and encounters with armored vehicles or heavily armed enemy groups.
- flagPuzzle Solving Sequences
Objective: Integrated into main story progression, these involve deciphering clues from Nate's journal, manipulating environmental objects, aligning symbols, or using light and shadow to uncover hidden paths or mechanisms related to Avery's trials and Libertalia's secrets.
- flagStealth Sections
Objective: Numerous areas allow or encourage a stealthy approach. Nate can use tall grass, cover, takedowns from ledges or above, and silenced weapons (if found) to eliminate enemies or bypass encounters without raising an alarm.
- flagStory Chapters (Prologue - Epilogue)
Objective: A series of linear, narratively-driven chapters that progress the main story of Nathan and Sam Drake's hunt for Captain Avery's treasure. Each chapter is set in a distinct location and features a mix of exploration, platforming, puzzle-solving, stealth, and intense combat encounters, punctuated by cinematic cutscenes.
- flagVehicle Traversal & Combat Sections
Objective: Specific chapters feature drivable vehicles like a jeep (in Madagascar) or a boat (around island chains). These sections involve navigating large environments, sometimes engaging in vehicular combat, or using the vehicle's winch for environmental puzzles.
Top 3 Missions/Objectives (Subjective):
Madagascar Chase (Chapter 10 & 11): An iconic extended sequence involving a thrilling jeep chase through a bustling Madagascan town, followed by intense combat and use of the grappling hook and winch. 2. Libertalia Exploration & Avery's Mansion (Later Chapters): Discovering and navigating the sprawling, ruined pirate utopia of Libertalia, culminating in the exploration of Henry Avery's booby-trapped mansion. 3. 'A Normal Life' (Chapter 4): A quieter, character-focused chapter depicting Nate and Elena's domestic life, contrasting sharply with the adventures to come and highlighting what Nate stands to lose.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Companions / Summons
- groupElena Fisher (AI - Temporary) (Human)
Ability: Accompanies Nate during certain later chapters of the game. She is resourceful and capable in combat, using firearms and assisting Nate. Her presence is crucial for narrative and emotional development during these segments.
- groupOnline Multiplayer Teammates (Original PS4 Version) (Human (Player Characters))
Ability: In the original PS4 multiplayer modes, players would team up with other human-controlled characters, utilizing various weapons, Mysticals (supernatural power-ups), and Sidekicks (AI support characters like Snipers or Brutes that could be summoned).
- groupSamuel 'Sam' Drake (AI) (Human)
Ability: Nate's older brother. Accompanies Nate for the majority of the game. Sam is a capable AI companion in combat, engaging enemies with firearms and melee. He also assists in traversal (e.g., boosting Nate up ledges, cooperative environmental interactions) and participates in puzzle-solving and dialogue.
- groupVictor 'Sully' Sullivan (AI) (Human)
Ability: Joins Nate and Sam for significant portions of the adventure. Provides combat support, often with heavier weapons or from a strategic position (like piloting a vehicle). Offers guidance and witty banter. Assists in traversal and puzzle elements.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Collectibles
- collections_bookmarkJournal Entries
Location/Use: Contextual items or landmarks that Nathan Drake can interact with, causing him to sketch or write about them in his journal. These entries provide additional lore, character thoughts, or clues for puzzles. There are 25 specific Journal Entry collectibles.
- collections_bookmarkJournal Notes
Location/Use: Loose notes, letters, or documents found in the environment that Nathan can pick up and read. These often provide backstory about historical figures like Captain Avery, the founding of Libertalia, or the lives of its inhabitants. There are 23 specific Journal Note collectibles.
- collections_bookmarkOptional Conversations
Location/Use: Specific moments where a speech bubble icon appears above an NPC's head (usually Sam, Sully, or Elena). Interacting triggers unique, optional dialogue exchanges that flesh out character relationships and provide additional story context. There are 36 of these.
- collections_bookmarkRock Cairns
Location/Use: Piles of stacked rocks found in some of the larger, more open environments. Nate can knock them over. While not a traditional collectible with a counter, interacting with them is a minor activity. (More prominent as a collectible in The Lost Legacy).
- collections_bookmarkTreasures
Location/Use: 109 small, often shiny, collectible artifacts hidden throughout the game's chapters. These range from ancient coins and pirate trinkets to jeweled objects. Finding them often requires careful exploration of environments, sometimes in out-of-the-way spots.
Top 3 Collectibles:
Over 100 small, hidden artifacts (e.g., jeweled snuff boxes, ancient coins, pirate relics) scattered throughout the levels, often requiring careful exploration or light puzzle-solving to find. 2. Journal Entries: Nate automatically sketches or writes about certain landmarks, clues, or significant objects he encounters, adding to the narrative and providing hints. 3. Optional Conversations: Contextual dialogue prompts that appear above NPCs' heads, allowing Nate to engage in extra conversations that flesh out characters and story details.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Armor
- shieldCosmetic Outfits (Multiplayer & Bonus Content)
Focus/Stats: In the original PS4 multiplayer mode, and as unlockable bonus content for the single-player campaign (often after first completion or via special editions), various cosmetic outfits for Nathan Drake and other characters were available. These were purely visual and did not offer gameplay advantages.
- shieldNo Equipable Armor System
Focus/Stats: Nathan Drake does not have an equipable armor system where players can find or upgrade different pieces of armor for stat boosts. His survivability is based on his health (which regenerates when out of combat) and player skill in using cover, dodging, and defeating enemies efficiently. There are no armor items to collect or equip.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Clothing / Appearance
- checkroomMultiplayer Character Customization (Original PS4)
Details: The original PS4 multiplayer mode allowed extensive customization of playable characters (heroes and villains from the Uncharted series) with hundreds of unlockable clothing items (hats, shirts, pants, accessories) and taunts.
- checkroomNathan Drake's Outfits
Details: Throughout the story, Nathan Drake wears several distinct outfits appropriate to the location and situation (e.g., casual wear at home, rugged adventure gear in Madagascar, diving suit, formal attire for an auction). These are generally fixed for specific chapters. Unlockable cosmetic outfits are available after completing the game or through special editions/Legacy of Thieves Collection, allowing players to replay chapters with different looks (e.g., classic Drake outfits, wetsuits).
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Other Features & Info
- labelUser Interface
Features a minimalistic and cinematic HUD, displaying ammo count, equipped weapon, and contextual prompts for interactions, stealth, and combat. A simple objective marker guides players. No traditional mini-map during gameplay to enhance immersion; players rely on environmental cues and Nate's journal. The journal contains sketches, notes, and puzzle solutions.
- labelSound and Music
Original score composed by Henry Jackman, featuring sweeping orchestral themes, adventurous melodies, and emotionally resonant pieces that underscore the narrative's highs and lows. The music dynamically adapts to gameplay, building tension during combat and enhancing the sense of wonder during exploration. Sound design is top-notch, with impactful weapon sounds, detailed environmental ambiances, and stellar voice acting.
- labelGraphics and Visuals
Powered by Naughty Dog's proprietary engine, Uncharted 4 is renowned for its groundbreaking visuals, especially at the time of its PS4 release. It features incredibly detailed character models with realistic animations and facial expressions, breathtaking and diverse environments, advanced lighting and shadow effects, and spectacular cinematic set pieces. The level of environmental detail, from foliage and water effects to material textures, is exceptional. The PS5 and PC versions in the 'Legacy of Thieves Collection' offer enhanced resolutions, frame rates, and graphical settings.
- labelAccessibility Features
Naughty Dog has been a leader in accessibility. Uncharted 4 (especially in the Legacy of Thieves Collection) offers a wide array of options: extensive control remapping, subtitle and caption customization (size, color, background, speaker names), options for motion blur/camera shake, aim assist lock-on, options for QTEs (hold vs. tap), high contrast modes, audio cues for collectibles and combat, navigation assistance, and more.
- labelStory and Setting
Set several years after Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception. Nathan Drake has retired from fortune hunting and settled into a normal life with Elena Fisher. His world is turned upside down when his older brother, Sam Drake, whom Nate believed to be dead for 15 years, resurfaces. Sam is in trouble with a dangerous drug lord, Rafe Adler, and needs Nate's help to find Captain Henry Avery's legendary pirate treasure to pay off a debt. Reluctantly, Nate joins Sam on one last adventure, a globe-trotting quest that takes them to locations like Italy, Scotland, Madagascar, and the mythical pirate utopia of Libertalia. The story focuses on themes of brotherhood, sacrifice, obsession, and the difficulty of leaving a dangerous life behind.
- labelMap Size and Regions (Level Design)
Uncharted 4 features a series of large, linear, and semi-open hub levels rather than a single contiguous open world. These 'wide-linear' areas encourage exploration for collectibles and optional conversations but guide the player along a narrative path. Key locations include: a Panamanian prison, the Rossi Estate in Italy, the Scottish Highlands, King's Bay and the plains of Madagascar, various islands, and the sprawling, lost city of Libertalia. Each location is meticulously detailed with distinct environments, from snowy mountains and dense jungles to bustling markets and ancient ruins. The game introduces drivable vehicles (jeep, boat) for navigating some of the larger hub areas.
- labelTop 5 Weapons/Tools (Subjective/Iconic)
- 1. AK-47 / FAL: Reliable assault rifles for mid-range combat. 2. Pistols (Para .45 / Aegis 9mm): Standard sidearms, useful for stealth or when primary ammo is low. 3. Grappling Hook: Essential new tool for traversal (swinging, rappelling) and can be used in combat to perform aerial takedowns or pull enemies. 4. Dynamite / Grenades: Effective explosives for crowd control or dealing with armored enemies. 5. Stealth Takedowns / Melee Combat: Nate's hand-to-hand combat and stealth abilities are crucial for many encounters.
- labelMultiplayer Modes (Original PS4 Version)
The original PS4 release featured a robust competitive multiplayer mode with team deathmatch, objective-based modes (Command, Plunder, Team Deathmatch Ranked), mystical power-ups (e.g., El Dorado, Cintamani Stone), AI sidekicks, and extensive character/weapon customization. A cooperative Survival mode (wave-based horde mode) was also added post-launch. These modes are not present in the 'Legacy of Thieves Collection' on PS5/PC.
- labelTop 3 Gameplay Mechanics/Features
- 1. Grappling Hook: A new traversal and combat tool allowing Nate to swing across gaps, rappel down cliffs, perform aerial takedowns, and pull objects. 2. Wide-Linear Level Design: Expansive levels that offer multiple paths, hidden areas, and encourage exploration while still guiding the player through a strong narrative. 3. Dynamic Stealth and Combat: Refined systems allowing for fluid transitions between stealth takedowns, cover-based shooting, and melee combat, with destructible environments and intelligent enemy AI.
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End Frequently Asked Questions
- help_outline Is Uncharted 4: A Thief's End the last Uncharted game with Nathan Drake?Yes, Naughty Dog has stated that Uncharted 4: A Thief's End is the conclusion to Nathan Drake's story arc. While the Uncharted universe continued with 'The Lost Legacy' (starring Chloe Frazer), Drake's journey as the protagonist effectively ends here.
- help_outline Do I need to play the previous Uncharted games to understand Uncharted 4?While Uncharted 4 has a self-contained main plot, playing the previous three games (Drake's Fortune, Among Thieves, Drake's Deception) is highly recommended. It significantly enhances the emotional weight of the story, the understanding of character relationships (especially with Elena and Sully), and the impact of Nathan Drake's final adventure.
- help_outline What is new in terms of gameplay in Uncharted 4 compared to previous titles?Uncharted 4 introduced several new gameplay mechanics, including a grappling hook for enhanced traversal and combat, more open 'wide-linear' level designs with drivable vehicles (jeep, boat), improved stealth mechanics with tall grass and enemy tagging, and more dynamic melee combat with environmental interactions.
- help_outline Does the 'Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection' include multiplayer?No, the 'Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection' for PS5 and PC includes the single-player campaigns of Uncharted 4: A Thief's End and Uncharted: The Lost Legacy only. The multiplayer modes from the original PS4 releases are not included in this collection.
- help_outline How long is Uncharted 4: A Thief's End?The main story campaign of Uncharted 4 typically takes around 15-20 hours to complete. Finding all collectibles and exploring thoroughly can extend this to 25-30+ hours.