Uncharted 4 Chapter 20 Crushing
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End is filled with intense action, gripping storytelling, and cinematic gameplay, but Chapter 20 stands out as one of the most challenging moments in the entire game especially on Crushing difficulty. This final chapter, titled ‘No Escape,’ pushes players to their limits, demanding perfect timing, quick reflexes, and strategic thinking. For those aiming to complete the game on the hardest setting, understanding the intricacies of Chapter 20 on Crushing is essential. The final fight is not just a test of combat skill but a true conclusion to Nathan Drake’s perilous journey through adventure and danger.
Overview of Chapter 20: No Escape
The Setting
Chapter 20 takes place aboard Henry Avery’s massive pirate ship, hidden inside the cave system on Libertalia. This location sets the stage for the game’s final showdown. The environment is dark, fiery, and claustrophobic, adding to the tension. Everything in this chapter leads to the climactic sword fight with the main antagonist, Rafe Adler.
What Makes Crushing Difficulty Unique
Crushing is the highest standard difficulty in Uncharted 4, where enemy attacks are deadly, reaction windows are shorter, and there’s little room for error. Unlike lower difficulties, you can’t afford to spam attacks or rely on button-mashing. Every move must be calculated, and every dodge perfectly timed. This is especially true in Chapter 20, where you’re forced into close combat without guns or gear.
The Sword Fight with Rafe
Understanding the Fight Mechanics
The fight with Rafe is divided into several phases. It’s not about who lands the most hits it’s about survival and precise timing. The game gives subtle visual cues for when to dodge and when to strike. On Crushing, these cues are less forgiving, and mistakes are severely punished. You must master the rhythm of the encounter to survive.
- Press the dodge button (circle) just before Rafe’s attack lands.
- Wait for an opening before attacking don’t rush in blindly.
- The camera shifts slightly to show the side of the incoming attack.
Phase-by-Phase Breakdown
Initially, Rafe is aggressive but predictable. In the early phase, his swings are slower, allowing you to learn the timing. As the fight progresses, his attacks become more rapid and less telegraphed. The third and final phase of the fight is where most players struggle on Crushing difficulty. Here, Rafe becomes faster, mixes up his attack patterns, and attempts to corner you in tight spots of the ship.
Survival Tips
- Stay calm: Panicking leads to mistimed dodges.
- Don’t button mash: Wait for your moment. Precision is key.
- Watch for visual cues: If the cue appears on the left, dodge left. If on the right, dodge right.
- Use audio clues: Rafe often grunts before striking, giving you a moment’s notice.
Managing the Environment
Hazards During the Fight
The pirate ship is ablaze, and debris falls from the ceiling throughout the fight. While these don’t directly damage you, they can obscure your view or change the battlefield slightly. Stay near the center of the screen, and avoid moving too close to the edges. There’s little room to maneuver, and one false step can corner you.
Camera Angles and Control
The cinematic camera work during the sword duel can make it hard to track Rafe’s movements. On Crushing, this becomes more of a challenge. Keep your thumb steady on the right stick to adjust the camera quickly. A well-positioned camera gives you a better angle to see his cues and anticipate his strikes.
Psychological Pressure on Crushing Difficulty
The Stress Factor
By Chapter 20, you’ve invested hours into the game, and the pressure to win can be intense. Crushing heightens this stress by forcing you to repeat the fight multiple times until you learn the patterns. Accept that failure is part of the process. Each attempt helps you memorize Rafe’s movements and improve your timing.
Dealing with Frustration
Many players get stuck at this point. If frustration builds, take a short break. Coming back with a fresh mindset often helps you execute better. Some players also find success in muting the game temporarily to reduce pressure from the intense soundtrack and focus purely on visual cues.
Post-Fight Cutscene and Final Moments
The End of Rafe
Once you land the final blow, the game transitions into a dramatic cutscene where Nathan finally defeats Rafe. The ship collapses, treasure burns, and the story begins to wrap up. Surviving this fight on Crushing makes the conclusion feel that much more rewarding. You’ve earned the ending through sheer persistence and skill.
Emotional Resolution
The escape with Sam, followed by the quiet scenes at the beach, offer a perfect emotional contrast to the adrenaline of Chapter 20. These final moments wrap up Nathan Drake’s journey, and experiencing them after conquering the hardest challenge gives players a strong sense of closure and satisfaction.
Is It Worth Playing Chapter 20 on Crushing?
The Answer Is Yes
Though incredibly difficult, playing Chapter 20 on Crushing adds depth and tension to the story. It feels like a true test of everything you’ve learned throughout Uncharted 4. For completionists, the Crushing trophy is a badge of honor. For story-driven gamers, it brings a more intense, satisfying end to Nathan’s final adventure.
What You Gain
- Personal satisfaction and sense of accomplishment
- Access to trophies and in-game rewards for beating the game on Crushing
- A deeper appreciation for the game’s mechanics and polish
Uncharted 4 Chapter 20 on Crushing difficulty is not for the faint of heart. It demands skill, patience, and perseverance. The sword fight with Rafe is a masterclass in timing and reflexes, offering one of the most memorable final battles in action-adventure gaming. Every slash, dodge, and counter becomes a moment of intense focus, and each success feels incredibly rewarding. If you’re committed to mastering the game, this chapter provides a final test worthy of a seasoned treasure hunter. Survive the flames, defeat your rival, and enjoy the conclusion of an unforgettable journey.