Uncharted: Golden Abyss is an action-adventure game played from a third-person perspective, with platforming and puzzle elements. The player controls Uncharted series protagonist Nathan Drake.[1][2] Progressing through a series of linear levels, Nathan explores a variety of environments including jungles, temple ruins, caverns and encampments.[2][3]
During platforming, Nathan climbs along ledges and jumps between platforms created by the environments. Some levels include multiple paths and hidden areas with collectible treasures.[3][4] During some sections, Nathan also swims through bodies of water, and rows a canoe down a river.[5] In combat, Nathan can use stealthy takedowns, and engage in cover-based third-person shooting against groups of enemies. Shooting can either be done with precise aiming or blind firing.[2] Nathan can pick up and use a variety of weapons, including pistols, machine guns, shotguns, rocket launchers, and grenades.[4][6]
The game's controls use a combination of traditional joystick and button commands, and the PlayStation Vita's motion and touch control functions. The motion controls play into aiming Nathan's weapons or balancing during crossing on a tightrope while swiping on the touchscreen can both be used to guide Nathan through and around the environment and are mandatory when performing melee attacks.[1][3][7] Some melee sections play out in a similar manner to quick time events.[6] Some puzzles involve using the touch screen to reveal clues or adjust mechanisms.[3][6] The back touch functions allow the player to zoom in with the weapon camera view, and take pictures within the environment.[3]
