The Last of Us: Part II follows Ellie and Joel, who are living in Jackson, Wyoming, until Joel is brutally murdered, leading Ellie on a quest for revenge. Ellie’s journey takes her from Wyoming to Seattle and eventually to California, where she encounters new characters and struggles with unintended consequences. The game also includes Abby’s storyline, which parallels Ellie’s and explores themes of identity and redemption. In the finale, Ellie chose to spare the person responsible for Joel’s death, showcasing forgiveness and the difficulty of breaking free from the cycle of violence. The game’s themes and emotional resonance make it a thought-provoking experience.
The Unforgettable Storyline of The Last of Us: Part II
The Set-Up: The Return of Old Characters
Like its predecessor, The Last of Us: Part II focuses on the duo of Ellie and Joel. However, instead of picking up right where the first game left off, Part II jumps forward a few years to show the two living in Jackson, Wyoming. Ellie is now 19 years old and has become a skilled fighter, and Joel has settled into a life of relative peace.
The Inciting Incident: The Murder of Joel
Unfortunately, Ellie and Joel’s peaceful existence is shattered when Joel is brutally murdered by a group of strangers. This sets Ellie on a path of revenge, as she becomes determined to track down those responsible and make them pay for what they’ve done.
The Quest for Justice: Ellie’s Journey Across America
Ellie’s quest for justice takes her across the United States, as she travels from Wyoming to Seattle and eventually to California. Along the way, she encounters a variety of new characters, some of whom become her allies and others who become her enemies. Ellie also has to confront the fact that her vengeance may have unintended consequences, such as causing harm to innocent people or creating new enemies along the way.
The Theme of Identity: Abby’s Storyline
One of the most unique aspects of The Last of Us: Part II is the fact that it includes another playable character, Abby. Abby’s storyline parallels Ellie’s, as she is also seeking revenge for a traumatic event in her past. However, as players progress through Abby’s story, they begin to understand that her motivations are more complex than they seemed at first glance. Abby’s story also explores themes of identity and redemption, as she struggles to make amends for her past actions and carve out a new path for herself.
The Finale: Ellie’s Final Decision
The game’s thrilling finale sees Ellie finally confront the person responsible for Joel’s death. However, in a surprising twist, she ultimately chooses to spare their life and walk away. This decision is a testament to the game’s overarching theme of the cycle of violence and the difficulty of breaking free from it. Ellie’s choice is a powerful statement about the importance of forgiveness and second chances, even in the face of great trauma and suffering.
The Legacy of The Last of Us: Part II
The storyline of The Last of Us: Part II is unforgettable in its scope, depth, and emotional resonance. The game’s themes of vengeance, identity, and forgiveness will stick with players long after the credits roll. While it may not be the easiest game to play, it is certainly one of the most impactful and thought-provoking games in recent memory.
