Does The Last of Us Take Place in Colorado?
The highly acclaimed video game and its TV series adaptation, The Last of Us, have sparked curiosity among fans about the setting of the story. While the game doesn’t explicitly state the location, various hints and subtle clues suggest that the main events take place in multiple locations, including Colorado.
The Initial Hype: Austin, Texas
The game’s first chapter, Hometown, introduces Joel and his daughter Sarah in Austin, Texas. This initial setting suggests that the story begins in the southern United States, but it’s essential to note that the majority of the game takes place after the outbreak, which occurred 20 years prior. The initial setting serves as a backdrop for the player’s understanding of the story’s context.
Later Developments: Colorado in the Picture
As the story progresses, Joel and Ellie’s journey takes them to Colorado, where they encounter various locations and settlements. University of Eastern Colorado is a prominent setting, where the infected outbreak spreads, and chaos ensues. The story also mentions Fort Collins, which hosts Colorado State University, although Boulder is listed as the actual setting.
| Location | Connection to The Last of Us |
|---|---|
| Austin, Texas | The game’s initial setting and Joel’s hometown |
| University of Eastern Colorado | A key location where the outbreak spreads |
| Fort Collins | Hosts Colorado State University, but actual setting is Boulder |
| Boulder | The actual location of the University of Eastern Colorado |
Why Joel and Ellie Leave Colorado
After the outbreak, Joel and Ellie leave Colorado as the situation becomes increasingly treacherous. They navigate through the post-apocalyptic world, facing numerous dangers and challenges. The Fireflies, a militia group, plays a crucial role in the story, and their presence is also linked to Colorado.
| Reason | Connection to Joel and Ellie’s Journey |
|---|---|
| Outbreak | Joel and Ellie flee Colorado to escape the infected outbreak |
| Fireflies | Their presence is linked to Joel and Ellie’s journey as they search for a safe haven |
Joel’s Brother: A Connection to Fireflies
Tommy, Joel’s brother, is a Firefly in both the game and TV series. His actions and motivations are rooted in his connection to the organization, which adds depth to the story. Tommy’s character serves as a commentary on the moral implications of the Fireflies’ actions, highlighting the blurred lines between good and evil.
| Character | Connection to the Story |
|---|---|
| Tommy (Joel’s brother) | A Firefly with a complex moral compass |
| Fireflies | A militia group with unclear intentions and motivations |
Concluding Thoughts
While Colorado is not the primary setting for The Last of Us, it plays a significant role in the story. The game’s developer, Naughty Dog, chose to use Colorado as a backdrop to create a gritty, post-apocalyptic environment. The subtle connections and hints throughout the game solidify Colorado’s presence as a key location in the narrative.
In conclusion, The Last of Us does take place in Colorado, albeit indirectly. The game’s complex storyline, characters, and settings combine to create a rich tapestry that explores the human condition in the face of catastrophic events.