Uncharted: Golden Abyss

Game Overview

Uncharted: Golden Abyss is developed by Bend Studio in collaboration with Naughty Dog, serving as a prequel to the main console trilogy. The story kicks off in Panama, where Drake joins forces with his old acquaintance Dante and a young archaeologist named Marisa Chase, whose grandfather mysteriously vanished while investigating the secretive Spanish sect known as the Quivira. As they trek through dense rainforests, subterranean ruins, and ancient temples, they must stay one step ahead of a heavily armed militia led by a ruthless warlord named Guerro, who seeks to exploit the legendary treasures of the past for military and financial gain.

The gameplay brilliantly translates the signature cinematic formula of the series to the PlayStation Vita hardware. Players navigate treacherous cliffs, swing across chasms, engage in dynamic cover-based shootouts, and solve intricate environmental puzzles using both traditional buttons and innovative hardware features. The PSV's unique inputs are seamlessly integrated: you can trace climbing routes on the touchscreen, tilt the handheld to balance across narrow logs or aim sniper rifles, use the rear touchpad for charcoal rubbings and puzzle manipulation, and tap the screen for brutal melee takedowns. With breathtaking graphics that pushed handheld hardware to its absolute limits, an orchestral score, and witty banter between characters, it stands as a monumental technical achievement for the platform.

Quick Specifications

Key Features

• Cinematic AAA Adventure: Experience a full-scale, story-driven blockbuster adventure tailored specifically for portable hardware without compromises.

• Innovative Touch Controls: Utilize the PlayStation Vita touchscreen and rear touchpad for climbing path tracing, melee combos, and puzzle-solving.

• Motion-Sensing Precision: Aim weapons, balance across narrow beams, and examine artifacts dynamically using the built-in gyroscope.

• Stunning Visual Fidelity: Marvel at console-quality graphics, detailed character models, and lush, expansive jungle environments unique to the platform.

• Classic Action Formula: Seamlessly blend acrobatic platforming, fluid gunplay, stealth takedowns, and environmental riddle-solving.

• Collectible Bounties: Hunt for hidden treasures, charcoal rubbings, and mysterious artifacts scattered across every chapter to complete your explorer journal.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Is Uncharted: Golden Abyss connected to the main PS3 trilogy story?

A: Yes and no. Golden Abyss is an official canonical prequel that takes place before the events of the first console game, Uncharted: Drake's Fortune. While it features returning characters like Nathan Drake and Victor "Sully" Sullivan, it tells a completely standalone story, meaning you do not need to play the console games to understand or enjoy it.

Q: How are the PlayStation Vita's touch and motion features used in gameplay?

A: The hardware features are integrated smoothly into core mechanics. You can trace climbing handholds or swipe to execute melee combos on the touchscreen, use the rear touchpad to rotate puzzle pieces or scrub charcoal rubbings, and tilt the PSV console to steady sniper rifle scopes or balance across ropes.

Q: How long does it take to complete a playthrough of Golden Abyss?

A: A standard playthrough focusing on the main story campaign, gunfights, and basic exploration takes approximately 8 to 10 hours. If you aim to track down every hidden treasure, complete all bounty sets, and earn platinum trophies, expect around 15 to 20 hours of total playtime.

Q: Can I play Uncharted: Golden Abyss on newer PlayStation systems?

A: No, Golden Abyss remains a PlayStation Vita exclusive and was notably excluded from the Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection released on PlayStation 4. Playing it requires an original PlayStation Vita hardware system or a PlayStation TV unit.