The Last of Us: Navigating Controversial Choices
The Last of Us is a world where decisions are as treacherous as a Clicker’s bite, and moral dilemmas lurk around every corner like a stealthy Infected. The games fearlessly showcase the harsh realities of this desperate setting, depicting gruesome violence and heart-wrenching losses. Revenge becomes a double-edged sword, consuming the characters and leading to devastating consequences. Our list highlights some of the most controversial decisions in The Last of Us series, from Joel’s abrupt and brutal demise in The Last of Us Part 2 to Ellie and Riley’s ‘happy’ ending that left many fans heartbroken. So grab your trusty machete and let’s explore the most impacting choices in Naughty Dog’s survival series, along with the discussions they sparked among fans.Save Ellie or allow her to be sacrificed?
It’s arguably the most controversial choice in The Last of Us – Joel’s decision to save Ellie rather than allow her to be sacrificed for a potential vaccine. This choice sets the stage for the complex moral dilemmas that permeate the series.
The games use realistic, emotionally charged scenes involving child characters to evoke strong reactions from you. These moments explore themes of loss, resilience, and the devastating impact of trauma on young lives. Many players felt betrayed by this choice, arguing that it was a nonsensical decision and an inappropriate way to introduce Ellie as a companion in the game. Others felt that it added to the realism and unpredictability of the post-apocalyptic world – no one is safe.
Shoot the boy or let him go?
The Last of Us 2 continues to trend as fans eagerly await the next installment, eager to see what new controversies and thought-provoking choices await them. One of the most controversial decisions in The Last of Us 2 was whether or not Joel should shoot a boy who was attempting to steal supplies from them.
This choice caused considerable discussion among players, with some defending the boy’s right to survival, arguing that he wasn’t a threat and only wanted to feed his younger brother. Others felt that the boy was too young to be trusted and posed a potential threat to Ellie, prompting Joel to end the boy’s life.
Are there any LGBTQ+ Last of Us characters?
The Last of Us series thrives on moral ambiguity, blurring the lines between right and wrong. Sometimes you’re forced to make decisions that are ethically unsound. In other instances, you’re given the choice to include relationships that reflect the diversity of the real world. The Last of Us 2 introduced an explicit LGBTQ+ relationship, reflecting the importance of inclusivity and mental health in the face of adversity.
The Last of Us games often depict graphic animal violence
Some players have expressed discomfort with the use of animal violence in The Last of Us series. The games are filled with scenes involving the brutal murder of dogs and other animals, often with the goal of creating a sense of immersion. The Last of Us games also use animal violence to reinforce the harsh realities of a post-apocalyptic world.
In The Last of Us 2, one controversial scene involved Joel brutally killing a herd of deer. This scene sparked heated discussions, with some arguing that it was unnecessary and unjustified. Others, however, defended the decision, arguing that it enhanced the narrative and reinforced the desperation of the characters.
