If your handheld device struggles to run the game natively—or if you simply want to save your battery and internal storage— is a viable and highly popular alternative.
on PC marked a significant milestone for the franchise, transitioning from a static console-locked masterpiece to a title that can be experienced on the go. While a native portable version—such as for the Nintendo Switch—does not exist due to its status as a Sony PlayStation exclusive , the rise of portable gaming PCs like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally has made " The Last of Us Portable " a reality for many. Handheld PC Performance Playing The Last of Us Part I
“You didn’t have to do that.” ELLIE: “You’d do the same for me.” (Joel’s Stress Meter drops to zero. He almost smiles — pixel lips twitch.)
, particularly when using 1080p resolution with FSR enabled . The Quest for a Nintendo Switch Version
Since the release of the PC port, owners of portable Windows-based or Linux-based handhelds can play the game natively without a constant internet connection once installed.
Since the release of the PC version in 2023, the The Last of Us Part I on Steam has become the primary way to play natively on handhelds.
“Just keep going. Get her to Tommy’s dam. There’s a lab there. Maybe... maybe they can make a cure.”
You have a long commute, travel frequently for work, or have a family that monopolizes the TV. Accept the 30 FPS lock and carry a power bank.
The experience of playing The Last of Us Part I on a portable device varies significantly depending on whether you are using a dedicated handheld PC like the Steam Deck or a remote play device like the PlayStation Portal
Turn this ON and set it to Balanced or Quality . This is mandatory for stable frame rates.
The most common way to play natively on a portable screen is via Windows or Linux-based handheld consoles. The game is fully available through Steam and the Epic Games Launcher.
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Turn off (this reduces visual clutter on smaller screens). Pros and Cons of the Portable Apocalypse
If you do not own a gaming handheld, you can stream the game to your smartphone, tablet, or a dedicated streaming device like the PlayStation Portal.
: Use the 28W "Performance" mode for the best results, as the game is highly demanding.
You cannot do any of this on a PS5 or Portal. For modders, the Steam Deck is the definitive portable machine.
No extra game purchase needed. Max settings. 60 FPS playback. Cons: Requires constant internet. Input lag ruins the tension of crafting shivs mid-combat.
