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Anapaula Ochoa

September 2024 "The Last of Us 2": Game of the Year for 2020 By Anapaula Ochoa

The Last of Us is a game set in a post-apocalyptic universe where a fungal virus evolves to affect and hijack people's nervous systems. One of the most significant characters, Ellie, gains immunity to this virus. Joel, a smuggler, is assigned to transport Ellie to the Fireflies, attempting to synthesize a cure utilizing Ellie’s immunity.



Why I love this game:

The diversity and similarities between the two most significant characters are beautifully written and meaningful. I also enjoy how the obstacles both must undertake to achieve their desires bring exciting and adventurous aspects to the game. The gameplay was also very entertaining because of all the interactive content, such as upgrades and weapons crafting. The graphics and scenery in this game are also awe-inspiring and truly add so much to the experience of playing through the game. It's one of my favorite components of the game. The graphics add depth and understanding to the gameplay and allow the game to be a more interactive experience by providing realistic scenarios and graphics. The scenery is captivating and impressive and plays a vital role in the overall enjoyment of playing the game. Multiple aspects of the game made it.

However, the sequel to this game is structured quite differently. It is organized as a story of betrayal, forgiveness, and revenge. Ellie suffers a terrible loss in the game's early stages, just when reconciliation with a loved one is underway. This significant event redirects her on a revenge mission, as she stops at nothing to set the score straight. Ellie sacrifices various relationships to complete the actions she feels are necessary. She crosses state lines in pursuit of the individual who caused her pain and those who were also involved. Ellie inflicts pain upon these people and eradicates them one by one for wronging her. It is a story that presents both perspectives of the cycle and pulls parallels and similarities between these two characters. The sequel reveals the motives of the one who committed an act of violence on Ellie’s loved one and shows how she feels justified in her reaction. Both sides of the story are valid but complicated, dramatically intensifying the story's flow. Common themes include anger, betrayal, vengeance, isolation, and understanding. This game is an outstanding representation of sheer human will and resilience. It accurately depicts scenes of PTSD and hallucinations, as well as the various ways grief can be processed. The Last of Us 2 contains sensitive concepts and acts of violence, which many may be able to relate to. Overall, the game is a phenomenal display of human nature and conflict.

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