Navigating the post-apocalyptic world of Naughty Dog's masterpiece requires players to balance resource management with thorough exploration. Among the most valuable secrets scattered across the ruins are the locked rooms containing rare supplies, upgrade materials, and training manuals. Accessing these hidden caches requires sacrificing a valuable shiv, making resource prioritization a critical mechanic for survival.
Early Game Locked Rooms in Bill's Town and Pittsburgh
The first few locked entrances appear once you reach Bill's Town, introducing players to the high value of these hidden spaces. One notable doorway is found behind a dilapidated building shortly after encountering the clicker traps in the forest area. Opening this early room provides essential ammunition and parts that significantly ease the initial difficulty spike.
As the journey transitions into the sprawling urban landscape of Pittsburgh, players will encounter several more resource opportunities. A prominent locked doorway is located inside the multi-story bookstore, requiring careful stealth to bypass the numerous patrolling hunters nearby. Another key location is found in the financial district, hidden in a back alley behind a heavily fortified checkpoint.
Mid Game Supply Access in the Suburbs and University
Moving past the dangerous city limits leads Joel and Ellie into the seemingly quiet residential suburbs. Players can find a highly rewarding storage room inside the broken concrete structures of the flooded area just before reaching the sniper's neighborhood. The supplies found inside this room are crucial for preparing your arsenal for the upcoming high-stakes combat encounters.
Upon arriving at the expansive campus of the Eastern Colorado University, exploration becomes even more vital for long-term progression. A critical locked door is situated on the second floor of the science building, tucked away near a broken window frame. Conserving your crafting materials to ensure you can open this specific lock rewards you with an essential tool level upgrade.
Late Game Opportunities in Lakeside and the Bus Depot
The narrative shifts focus during the harsh winter chapter, where resource scarcity becomes an even more pressing issue for the characters. While playing through the lakeside resort area, a hidden door can be accessed in the rear section of the local town hall building. This room contains valuable health supplements and weapon parts that are vital for the final stretch of the campaign.
The final sets of locked storage zones are located within the overgrown remnants of the Salt Lake City bus depot and underground tunnels. One easily missed doorway is positioned near the dark subterranean passages filled with multiple dangerous infected variants. Accessing this final cache ensures your weapons are fully stocked and upgraded before entering the climactic hospital sequence.
