Who killed Joel in The Last of Us 2 and why?

Who Killed Joel in The Last of Us 2 and Why?

The Last of Us 2, a highly anticipated game from Naughty Dog, has sparked numerous discussions and debates among gamers and critics alike. One of the most intriguing aspects of the game is the death of Joel, a beloved character from the first installment. In this article, we will delve into the story of who killed Joel and why.

Who Killed Joel?

Joel, the protagonist of the first game, meets his demise at the hands of Abby, the daughter of Owen, a doctor who was killed by Joel in the first game. Abby, driven by a desire for revenge, seeks to kill Joel as a form of justice for her father’s death.

Why Did Abby Kill Joel?

Abby’s motivation for killing Joel stems from her anger and resentment towards him for taking her father’s life. In the first game, Joel had killed Owen to prevent him from operating on Ellie, who was infected with the Cordyceps virus. Abby’s father had been working on a cure for the virus, and Joel’s actions had essentially doomed the world to a life of darkness and chaos.

Joel’s Tragic Fate

Joel’s death serves as a pivotal moment in the game, marking a turning point in the story. Ellie, who had come to regard Joel as a surrogate father, is left reeling from his loss. The game’s narrative takes a darker turn as Ellie sets out on a quest for revenge against Abby, driven by her own emotions and a desire for justice.

The Moral Complexity of Joel’s Death

The decision to kill Joel off raises several questions about the moral complexity of the game. Some players have argued that Joel’s death is a necessary step in the story, allowing Ellie to grow and develop as a character. Others have criticized the move as gratuitous and unnecessary, pointing out that Joel’s death serves little narrative purpose beyond providing a dramatic hook for the game’s second half.

The Consequences of Joel’s Death

Joel’s death has far-reaching consequences for the game’s narrative. Ellie, now consumed by anger and grief, sets out on a path of vengeance against Abby and her allies. This sets the stage for a thrilling and action-packed second half of the game, as Ellie and Abby engage in a deadly struggle.

The Significance of Joel’s Character

Joel’s death also serves as a commentary on the human cost of war and conflict. Throughout the game, Joel’s character is portrayed as a complex and nuanced individual, driven by a desire to protect those he loves. His death serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and the importance of seeking peaceful solutions to conflict.

Conclusion

The death of Joel in The Last of Us 2 serves as a powerful narrative device, driving the story forward and providing a compelling motivation for Ellie’s actions. While some players may question the necessity of Joel’s death, it ultimately adds depth and complexity to the game’s narrative, exploring themes of grief, revenge, and the human cost of conflict.

FAQs

• Did Joel die at the end of the first game? No, Joel survived the events of the first game.
• What was the reason for Joel’s death in the second game? Joel was killed by Abby, the daughter of Owen, who was seeking revenge for her father’s death.
• Why did Abby kill Joel? Abby killed Joel because he had killed her father, Owen, in the first game.
• What are the consequences of Joel’s death? Joel’s death has significant consequences for the game’s narrative, driving Ellie’s actions and setting the stage for the game’s second half.

Timeline of Events

The Last of Us 2: A Critical Analysis

• Pro: The game’s narrative is rich and complex, exploring themes of grief, revenge, and the human cost of conflict.
• Con: Some players may find the game’s graphic violence and mature themes off-putting.
• Neutral: The game’s story is engaging and well-written, with well-developed characters and a gripping narrative.