In the video game “The Last of Us”, two of the main characters, Joel and Ellie, navigate a post-apocalyptic world as survivors of an epidemic. Though initially skeptical of each other, they develop a deep bond as they journey together. Joel, a single father, has experienced the loss of his daughter and is willing to do whatever it takes to protect Ellie, ultimately choosing her life over the potential cure for the epidemic. Ellie, immune to the virus, seeks human connection and chooses her own desires over sacrificing her life to potentially save humanity. Both characters demonstrate the importance of human connection in a harsh reality.

The Journey of the Survivors: Joel vs. Ellie

Introduction

The video game “The Last of Us” has become a household name, with its apocalyptic setting and captivating storyline. Two of the main characters – Joel and Ellie – embark on a journey together that tests their willpower and strength. As survivors in a world taken over by an epidemic, they must navigate the dangers that lurk at every corner. This article will examine the different paths Joel and Ellie take on their journey as survivors in “The Last of Us.”

Joel’s Journey

Joel is introduced as a single father and survivor of the epidemic that turned most of humanity into “infected” beings, making them a danger to anyone they cross paths with. His desperation to protect his daughter, Sarah, leads him to make difficult decisions that ultimately shape his character. The death of Sarah and the experience of protecting Ellie tests Joel’s willingness to connect with others in a world where everyone is your enemy.

As the game progresses, Joel starts to form a paternal relationship with Ellie. He becomes more protective of her, showing a desire to keep her safe at all costs. In the end, Joel’s love for Ellie leads him to make a decision that puts his bond with her above all else. Despite the consequences, he chooses to save Ellie from being used as a cure for the epidemic, ultimately choosing his attachment to her over the welfare of the world.

Ellie’s Journey

Ellie is introduced as a teenager who has known nothing but the harsh reality of the epidemic. She is immune to the virus and has the potential to be a cure for the epidemic, which makes her valuable to many factions. Despite her tough exterior, Ellie is vulnerable and seeks human connection, desperately wanting to belong somewhere.

Ellie is initially skeptical of Joel, but as they journey together, she becomes more reliant on him for guidance and protection. She starts to trust that Joel is looking out for her best interests, leading her to develop a deep bond with him. Her journey takes her through several brutal confrontations with factions and infected, showcasing her ability to fight back and the strength she possesses.

In the end, Ellie is faced with a decision that could potentially save humanity from the epidemic. She must undergo a procedure that would use her immune system as a cure. However, she discovers that the process would kill her in the process. Ellie decides that she does not want to sacrifice her life to potentially save others, realizing that even in a world that has taken so much from her, she has the right to make her own choices.

Conclusion

Joel and Ellie’s journeys both showcase the harsh reality of surviving in a post-apocalyptic world. They both make difficult choices that shape their characters and bond them together. While Joel prioritized his attachment to Ellie over the greater good, Ellie chose to put her own desires above the welfare of society. Regardless, both characters find a way to survive and form a strong bond, demonstrating the importance of human connection and the power it can hold even in the darkest of times.