The Last of Us Ep 9: The Perfect Finale for a Masterpiece
The gaming industry has seen a plethora of masterpieces over the years, with titles like The Witcher 3, God of War, and Grand Theft Auto V taking the spotlight. However, few games have left such an indelible mark on the industry as The Last of Us did upon its release in June 2013. Developed by Naughty Dog, the studio behind the Uncharted series, The Last of Us was a must-play for any gamer. The game garnered universal acclaim for its compelling story, emotional performances, and meticulous attention to detail. It was no surprise that The Last of Us Part II was one of the most anticipated releases of 2020.
The Last of Us Part II released on June 19, 2020, and set the gaming world on fire once again. The game was a visual spectacle and left players on the edge of their seats with its unforgettable story. The Last of Us Part II followed Ellie and Abby’s intertwined journeys, as they both experienced the consequences of their actions in a post-apocalyptic world. However, no matter how good a game is, it all comes down to its finale. And boy, did The Last of Us Part II deliver an unforgettable finale that left players talking for days.
The Last of Us Part II’s finale is split into two parts, with each part tackling different themes and executing them flawlessly. The first part of the finale is titled “The Island,” and it follows Ellie, who is hell-bent on revenge against Abby. Ellie’s journey leads her to the island where Abby and the Fireflies are, making the player believe that this would lead to a final showdown between the two. However, what follows is a brilliant story beat that reminds players of the consequences of violence and revenge.
As Ellie navigates through the island, she witnesses the Fireflies in action. The players are left stunned by the sheer destruction and violence caused by the Fireflies in the name of a cure. The game reminded us that violence begets violence and that revenge is a never-ending cycle. This thematic depth added to the overall narrative, elevating the game to new heights. Even the most cynical of gamers would have to admit that the way the game tackles the “revenge” theme is exemplary.
The second part of the finale, titled “The Farm,” is where the game’s excellent writing, acting, and attention to detail shine. Ellie’s journey takes her away from Seattle and back to Jackson, where she finds her family in disarray. This part of the game is where the player has a chance to catch their breath and take in the emotional roller coaster ride that is The Last of Us Part II. The game introduces the player to Ellie’s peaceful life on the farm with Dina and JJ, and it’s the perfect juxtaposition to the havoc wreaked in Seattle. The atmosphere of the farm is almost serene, with moments like Ellie and Dina’s dance in the field feeling like a breath of fresh air.
The gamers’ hearts are tugged during the “The Farm” section, where we see Ellie struggling to come to terms with the fact that her “revenge” mission has cost her everything. The guilt and trauma Ellie experiences are palpable, as are the consequences of her actions. The game explores the themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption in ways that are both powerful and emotionally impactful.
The Last of Us Part II’s finale is a testament to the skill and vision of Naughty Dog’s developers. The way the game tied up loose ends and brought conclusion to its narrative is nothing short of exemplary. The game’s characterization, pacing, and themes are perfectly woven together to deliver a satisfying and perfect finale. The game left the players feeling fulfilled, yet wanting more. The game’s ending evokes a mixture of emotions, with players feeling both sadness and hopefulness.
In conclusion, The Last of Us Part II is a masterclass in video game storytelling. The game’s finale is a perfect culmination of the game’s themes, story, acting, and sound design. The way the game handles the themes of violence, revenge, and love is unparalleled in the gaming industry. The Last of Us Part II’s finale will go down in history as one of the most perfect finales for a masterpiece. It is a testament to the gaming industry that such titles exist, and it puts the spotlight on the importance of storytelling in video games.
