The Last of Us 2, developed by Naughty Dog, has received both critical acclaim and divided opinions due to its themes. While the game's technical achievements and expansive world are awe-inspiring, some players were unsettled by certain plot elements, such as the murder of Joel by Abby. The game presents a challenge both in terms of gameplay and interpretation. One undeniable aspect is that The Last of Us 2 pushes its characters, particularly Ellie and Abby, to their emotional limits, resulting in intense battles of wit and violence.
To intensify the impact of these moments, Naughty Dog made the daring decision to allow players to control Abby in certain parts of the game. The climax of one such sequence involves hunting down Ellie and subjecting her to a brutal and merciless beating. This confrontation is unrelenting, and players may find it difficult to inflict such pain upon a beloved character like Ellie, especially considering the attachment developed in the first game. The emotional impact of this sequence is profound, and it serves as a potential source of inspiration for future God of War games developed by Santa Monica Studio.
The Last of Us 2's Thematically Challenging Boss Fight
The boss fight against Ellie has a profound impact because it gives control to the player instead of being shown in a cutscene. As players take on the role of Abby in The Last of Us 2, they are forced to stealthily track Ellie in the darkness, deliver each brutal punch, and follow on-screen prompts to execute vicious counter moves. The climax leaves Ellie battered and bloodied, while Abby emerges as the ultimate victor, creating a powerful narrative twist.
This sequence exemplifies the game's ability to subvert expectations and manipulate perspectives. The Last of Us 2 explores themes of duality and moral ambiguity, blurring the lines between good and evil. In the first game, Ellie was viewed as a strong and level-headed protagonist. However, the events of the sequel challenge this perception, and as players attack Ellie while controlling Abby, it evokes a complex mix of emotions. Rarely do video games delve into such emotional depth and conflicting motivations, making it a captivating experience that could inspire other franchises to explore similar storytelling techniques.
Kratos vs Atreus
God of War Ragnarok explores the complex relationship between Kratos and Atreus, a father and son duo. Despite their love for each other, they often clash due to their differing perspectives. While the game ends with them on good terms, there is an underlying tension that suggests potential conflicts in the future. It would be interesting and emotionally impactful if the next installment allowed players to control either Kratos or Atreus as they engage in a fight to the death. This could be triggered by Kratos succumbing to his rage or Atreus becoming power-hungry. The possibilities for the story's direction are vast, providing Santa Monica with numerous creative options.
The Last of Us Part 2 is available now on PS4.