Uncharted

Uncharted

Uncharted is an action-adventure video game series developed by Naughty Dog. Following treasure hunter Nathan Drake, the series combines platforming, puzzle-solving, and third-person shooting in cinematic adventures inspired by pulp adventure films.

IP Overview & Key Facts

IP Key Facts

Essential information and quick stats.
Full Name
Uncharted
Also Known As
Uncharted, Uncharted Series
Format
Video Game
Release Year
2007
Current Status
Active (Multiple games released, movie adaptation)
Country of Origin
United States
Original Work
game
Genre
action-adventure, treasure hunting, platforming, cinematic, exploration, puzzle, third-person shooter

Story, World & Core Themes

Explore the narrative, setting, and ideas that shape Uncharted.
Story
High-level synopsis and narrative focus.
Nathan Drake, a charismatic treasure hunter, travels the globe uncovering historical mysteries. Blending pulp adventure with cinematic storytelling, he races against ruthless enemies to find lost cities and legendary artifacts.
World
Setting, cultures, and distinctive elements.
A cinematic blend of modern reality and ancient myth. From the jungles of the Amazon to the deserts of the Rub' al Khali, the world is filled with hidden ruins, forgotten history, and occasional supernatural elements, all grounded in a gritty, realistic action setting.
Themes
Core ideas and recurring motifs.
The pursuit of 'Greatness from Small Beginnings' (Sic Parvis Magna), the destructive cost of obsession, the value of loyalty and family over gold, and the struggle to leave a legacy.

Cultural Impact Timeline

High-level milestones showing Uncharted's global influence.
Creation Background
Naughty Dog's vision to create a cinematic adventure game inspired by classic adventure films
Cultural Impact
Redefined cinematic gaming, influenced action-adventure genre
Legacy
Considered one of PlayStation's most important exclusive franchises
Major Milestones
2007: Uncharted: Drake's Fortune launches,2009: Among Thieves wins multiple Game of the Year awards,2011: Drake's Deception concludes original trilogy,2016: A Thief's End provides Nathan's final adventure,2017: The Lost Legacy features Chloe and Nadine,2022: Movie adaptation starring Tom Holland releases
Awards
Multiple BAFTA Games Awards,Game Developers Choice Awards,D.I.C.E. Awards

Key Characters

Meet representative characters from Uncharted.
Nathan Drake
Sic parvis magna - Greatness from small beginnings.
A charismatic treasure hunter and adventurer who claims to be a descendant of Sir Francis DrakeView Profile
Victor 'Sully' Sullivan
Kid, I've been in this game longer than you've been alive.
Nathan's mentor, father figure, and treasure hunting partner with decades of experienceView Profile

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Nathan Drake?
Nathan Drake is a charismatic treasure hunter and the protagonist of the series. Raised in an orphanage, he claims to be a descendant of the explorer Sir Francis Drake. He is known for his wit, improvisation, and determination.
What does 'Sic Parvis Magna' mean?
It is a Latin phrase meaning 'Greatness from Small Beginnings.' Inscribed on Sir Francis Drake's ring, which Nathan wears, it serves as his motto and a central theme of his journey from a street urchin to a legendary adventurer.
Are the treasures in Uncharted real?
The games are based on real history and legends (like El Dorado, Shambhala, and Iram of the Pillars), but the specific supernatural twists and exact locations are fictionalized for the narrative.
Who is Victor 'Sully' Sullivan?
Sully is Nathan's mentor, father figure, and partner in crime. A seasoned treasure hunter himself, he rescued a young Nathan from the streets of Cartagena and raised him, teaching him the trade.
Do I need to play the games in order?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The series relies heavily on character development and relationships that evolve from 'Drake's Fortune' through to 'A Thief's End.' Playing them chronologically maximizes the emotional impact.
Is Uncharted 4 really the last game?
Uncharted 4: A Thief's End is the conclusion of Nathan Drake's story. While the franchise continued with the spinoff 'The Lost Legacy,' Naughty Dog has stated that Nathan's arc is complete.
Are there supernatural elements in the games?
The first three games (Drake's Fortune, Among Thieves, Drake's Deception) feature supernatural twists towards the end (cursed descendants, guardians, djinn). However, Uncharted 4 and The Lost Legacy stay grounded in reality.
Who is Sam Drake?
Samuel 'Sam' Drake is Nathan's older brother, introduced in Uncharted 4. Presumed dead for 15 years, his return forces Nathan out of retirement for one last job to save Sam's life.
How is the Uncharted movie connected to the games?
The 2022 movie starring Tom Holland is an origin story that mixes elements from various games but exists in a separate continuity. It is not a direct adaptation of any single game's plot.
What is the relationship between Nathan and Elena?
Elena Fisher starts as a journalist documenting Nathan's finds but becomes his equal partner and eventually his wife. Their relationship is the emotional anchor of the series, representing the 'normal life' Nathan struggles to accept.

Official & Related Links

Find official resources and trusted references to learn more.
Official Website
Twitter
@Naughty_Dog
Facebook
Naughty Dog
Instagram
@naughty_dog_inc
Streaming / Watch
PlayStation NowPlayStation PlusVarious gaming platforms

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