The Uncharted series has long been praised and criticized by fans and critics alike, mainly due to its strict linear story and gameplay. However, it seems that Naughty Dog will have to add some reason for exploring the wide world their creating for Uncharted 4 or it will just be a waste.
Uncharted 4: Thief's End will be a 2016 release and in that length of time, Naughty Dog has enough time to either retain a strict linear gameplay or add incentives for explorations like different ways to complete a mission. However, if Naughty dog retains its extreme linearity, there is no reason for creating a large, lush landscape.
However, details from various sources point out that Naughty Dog is creating an expansive world, hinting that a somewhat "open-worldish" take for Uncharted 4: a thief's end is in the works.
In a tweet posted by Hollywood producer, Megan Ellison, she points out epic worlds.
Just left @Naughty_Dog where I got to play a little UNCHARTED 4. Gorgeous gameplay. Epic worlds. I cannot wait for full immersion next year.
— Megan Ellison (@meganeellison) April 8, 2015
Though it doesn't reveal how large these epic worlds are, but if there are immersive indeed, Naughty Dog would logically give gamers reason for exploration. Though Uncharted 4: A thief's end would not be as open as GTA V, a sense of freedom must be added to the gameplay to take advantage of the epic environments Naughty Dog have created, especially as shown on its first official trailer.
Though there are rumors that Uncharted 4 have an open-world game similar to Jak 3, it is still unconfirmed as to the scope of freedom gamers are given to roam. As posted on IGN, Naughty Dog will offer "much more space to explore."
Nevertheless, Uncharted 1, 2 and 3 were successful in harnessing its linear story to its advantage. Many are surprised at how Naughty Dog managed to pull off such a game formula in an age where open-world games are starting to reign supreme. However, if Naughty Dog manages to expand their gameplay and still pack in a riveting and engaging story, it is the making of one of the best games for 2016.
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