The Last of Us Part 2 - The Ending Explained

[@juandavila2351]

In the end, there's no apologies. Joel never apologized to Ellie. He even said he would do it again, even after she confesses that she feels he robbed her life of having any purpose. Abby never apologizes to Ellie. Even when Abby has grown to do anything to protect Lev and now kinda understands how Joel could've done what he did. And finally, Ellie... she learned to treat the person she hated the most the same as the person she loved the most. She kept whatever left she had of humanity by letting Abby go, not because she understood, but because she needed it. In her mind she said to Abby the same thing she said to Joel "I don't know if I could ever forgive you, but I'd like to try". I think the game is more powerful because they both had to learn to forgive even when none asked for forgivness. They let go, not because they though the other one deserved it, not because the other one earned it, but because holding on to such hate will only destroy you and the ones you love. Forgive, because you deserve the peace.

[@TLOUStrategist]

😊🙏

[@dukinhower]

No part of Abby's characterization shows she "understands" Joel

[@salamander337]

I'm confused to why Abby have such love for Lev as much as Joel does for Ellie? I didn't get that from playing the game. If I understand Abby wanted to save Lev and Yara for saving her life but to go to such extreme is out of character for her. But of course Neil Drunkman wanted us to feel empathy for her. 😉

[@kam-zq6hl]

salamander337 It wasn’t really out of character for Abby. She’s a very caring girl, but shes was so caught up into getting revenge on Joel that it hid away from the viewers, so i see why you think that

[@tnbn55]

@@salamander337 Abby replaces Yara as big sister to Lev, a child who just lost everything.

[@laaarsu]

I remember being disappointed at Ellie for throwing away valuable things no man normally gets. A family, settling down, and security: valuable things that even the most mature people still struggle to find, much more in a zombie apocalypse, are in turn, disregarded by Ellie in her selfish warpath that was instigated just because she couldn't come to terms with Joel's death. As a result, she chased after Abby, but at what cost? Everything. Still, thank you for making this amazing explanation that even I am at a loss for words. I'll re-quote a caption that a news site posted on TLOU2: "The Last of Us 2 was never meant to entertain." I still feed sad for the others who may not see the sequel in a manner as realistic as possible.

[@TLOUStrategist]

😊👍

[@MiillieMesh]

my sentiments exactly. That ending was bitter. Came back to an empty house & 2 less fingers & didn't even complete what you set out to do.

[@WaitButHow]

Sure, Ellie left Dina, but she did resolve her inner conflict in the end, and saved Abby and Lev who would otherwise be dead. It's like put your mask on first before helping others. What good would Ellie be had she stayed with Dina? She definitely gave it a honest shot before deciding to leave in search of Abby.

[@danielcardiff3861]

I disagree on Joel not changing. The tragic part of the story is that Joel had changed. He went from a man who looked out only for himself and the select few he cares for to someone who goes out of his way to save a stranger. Being Abby. Joel's last act was of selfless heroism. But the atonement was him dying because of it. He knew that someone may come for him and knew he was in no place to bargain. Hence why he says 'say whatever speech you have rehearsed and get this over with'.

[@hankjesse3410]

I agree. Joel didn't bargain because he didn't care about Tommy. That thought is absurd.

[@TLOUStrategist]

@HankTheTank16 Really? Joel’s last gesture was nice, but he never atoned with the one who he needed to most, Ellie. Tommy, who carries many of Joel’s flaws, later goes to visit an obviously distraught Ellie on her farm, and gives her a guilt trip for not immediately agreeing to HIS revenge quest that he can’t undertake himself ...because he made a bunch of selfish decisions.

[@oross504]

I like what you said. I hear it. What I was struck by was the pause after Abby told Joel to guess. He’s wronged so many people he simply couldn’t. I think Joel thought he WAS atoning for his sins by saving Ellie. I also think he knew he hadn’t atoned. Just my thoughts.

[@danielcardiff3861]

@@TLOUStrategist Ellie made the selfish decision too. Tommy lost everything so he obviously wants Ellie to fulfill her promise because he's left alone and crippled after the failed revenge.

[@hankjesse3410]

@@TLOUStrategist He may not have been able to atone for what he did for Ellie, but that doesn't mean he didn't care about her or Tommy nor that he was capable of selflessness. The flashback at the museum demonstrates that even though he may have been struggling with his decisions, Ellie was still his center. He still cared. Also, he didn't risk knowingly risk Ellies life over a string. He didn't know the building would be infected, and Ellie herself decided to enter in. Remember, she opened a path for Joel. In the end, he still saved her. His attempts at selflessness show that he changed. What stuck out to me was that he told Abby to ride with him. He could've told her to go with Tommy, just like with Ellie all those years ago, but he didn't. He may not have fixed his mistakes, but his attempts at selflessness show true change from the person from Part one. Not a nice gesture. Also, Tommy's actions in my opinion show that Joel cared. His relationship with Joel caused him to seek revenge. He cared for Joel, and Joel obviously cared for him, as he was able to trust him with his sins. However, in the end he wasn't Joel, even if he carried some of his flaws. But his want for revenge shows that he and Joel and a relationship where they cared. If they didn't, why would he go to the brink of self-destruction?

[@TheDONUTboyTELLem]

I liked the whole “YOU” thing... by the end of the game when it had you mashing the button to drown Abby both me and my girlfriend were yelling at the tv to just let her go.. It makes you want the suffering to just end man.. Like you literally can’t take part in the endless cycle of revenge and violence anymore.

[@TLOUStrategist]

I felt the same...I think my face was scrunched up in agony. 😖

[@cg841]

I’m so jealous that you have a girlfriend that enjoyed this game with you. Mine could never. 😢

[@jxnjixo]

sameeee me and my boyfriend couldnt take it, it was too much

[@stormshadowj10]

Me too! I was feeling a lot of pain for both of them. I learned to forgive Abby, and I started to care for her wellbeing. Ellie was also such a broken character that needed healing, and I was feeling a lot of compassion during the last fight. I didn’t want to continue to help Ellie fight Abby.

[@kimruss344]

Fuck that I enjoyed choking the shit out of Abby Should have drowned her ass...bitch bit off Ellie's fingers and all Definitely would have died after doing THAT

[@BlueLionsTVNiiNiiFC]

THIS, THIS is the video I’ve been searching for, for 3 weeks! You shouldn’t honestly be so proud of this video, this was literally perfection. Wow. You touched on points on themes I saw, you opened my eyes to themes, expanded on them and took them to levels I didn’t even realise. It’s been so depressing watch most people and many reviewers miss the point of the ending, they late hate overcome them, they didn’t open themselves up to the narrative and couldn’t accept the game for what it was trying to convey. It made me realise there aren’t enough emotionally intuitive and intelligent reviewers on this platform. Even the big ones I respected, let me down with there subjectively negative takes on this game. The backlash and threats druckmann received too, what cruel irony. How depressing it must have been. This game was a masterpiece, I feel no game have ever told a narrative this complex, this thematic, this nuanced and this human ever. A new benchmark has been set and 2bh, with how the industry is today, we could never see something like this again. The only sad thing now is that I’ll have to wait another 7 years, in hope of getting a part 3 and in hope of getting your analysis to it. You did it.

[@Jamie-ee4ll]

Nini my guy loyal subscriber bro love ur content If u don’t want to wait 7 years for part 3 pls do yourself a favour and play red dead redemption 2 ( if u haven’t already) This game for me beats the last of us due to the the depth of its storyline was so powerful , the development of the characters to where you felt emotionally connected to them, especially Arthur ( the protagonist) who you become attached to like he’s a friend. Also the open world is fucking incredible, from the scenery, towns and cities to the regular npc who actually talk and make conversation with you unlike npcs in every other game. I could name so much more reasons why this game is so good The level of detail rockstar put into this game is like nothing I’ve ever seen before no wonder they took 8 years to make it . It is an absolute masterpiece and imo the best game ever made. Certainly the best I’ve played by a long distance and it was one of those where you feel it changed you after playing it I’m a big fan of your channel nini and I’d love if u responded and to hear your opinion of the game if you’ve played it or not that would make my day man. Oh and btw 4-0 tmoro ye😂 we can hope. Up the chels

[@Jamie-ee4ll]

Blue Lions Tv - A Chelsea Channel my favorite line I read someone write about the game was it feels less like a video game but more like an experience . That sums it up perfectly to me

[@BlueLionsTVNiiNiiFC]

Jamie hey man, I actually have Red Dead 2, but haven’t tackled the game just yet. I feel like I get burn out from open world games, I just need to find the right time to invest in them and play them. For example, when Witcher 3 came out, it took me 4 months to finish it 😂 I definitely know it a game to be experienced and savoured, so I’ll look to get back to playing it, once I finish doom eternal. Obvs making content means I don’t have as much time to myself to invest in every game I want too. I’ll deffo finish RDR2, thanks for motivating me too get back into it and thanks for the comment man

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks so much for your kind words, it’s an honor! I feel very much as you do... it’s why I scrapped my review & took the 60+ hours to make this video. I felt if I was able to help even one person see Part II in a different light, then I will have succeeded. Surprisingly, there have been a lot more than that! 😂😊👍

[@BlueLionsTVNiiNiiFC]

@@TLOUStrategist Dude, i would actually love if you continue to explore this game and why it was soon divisive. Did you see that video of streamers and youtubers reacting to the ending? It was so polarising, half empathised, the other half were in a blood frenzy. I'd love to listen to your thoughts on how you feel about game critique today and maybe a deconstruction on reviews in general. For example, i've always thought playstyles and time completion can heavily affect a review. If you're rushing to finish a dense game like this in 2 days, how can you fairly grasp the depth and give it a fair score? We've seen critiques from dumb A.I, to filler, to repetition, to everything basically. Yet at the same time, we've seen players on here, absolutely master the mechanics, which literally transforms how the game can be played. So many play games like this on normal and constantly forget the difference between bad A.I and forgiving A.I due to difficulty settings. Devs pour so much time and hours into producing projects like this and most reviews seem to scratch the surface of whats on offer, thus giving surface level opinions. Great books, film, art, get discussed for years and years, with many interpretations, this game felt like the best example of this in a gaming form and experts, proffesional reviewers and big youtubers, didn't realise the scope.

[@TheThirdPew]

I thought I understood everything about this game and then here you make me realize like 10 more points about it. amazing analysis, I'm glad there's a couple of level headed videos like these on youtube. this is probably my favorite story ever told in a video game.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you so much, Nathan! 😉👍 Definitely their most ambitious game, and I applaud them for having the courage to tackle such a difficult subject!

[@RUDEMusicUS]

Love your video as well

[@brucel400]

Your video is just as insightful. thank you

[@basically_im_mo6943]

Exactly man the story's not bad

[@K-Choi]

Only Girlfriend Reviews is missing in this comment section

[@ruckle9807]

This has really blown my mind in the end, I fully understand last of us 2 now.

[@TLOUStrategist]

😊🙏 Thank you!

[@Lionhart1991]

and it still suck lol

[@javisanchez1813]

@@Lionhart1991 throw shit for throw shit is not very smart ;(

[@dukinhower]

You understand someone else's opinion on things the actual story failed to fully realize...

[@erika662]

DarkSquall1991 false it’s amazing!! 10/10

[@justinmagno1994]

Someone just earned himself early access to The Last of Us 3

[@alijaafar1753]

He is sponsored btw

[@goukeban6197]

@@alijaafar1753 Source?

[@royalrod_]

Goukeban 0:00

[@alijaafar1753]

@@goukeban6197 the first few seconds of the vid?

[@goukeban6197]

@@alijaafar1753 Oh yeah! I tend to ignore "ending explained" videos and just look at the comments.

[@richardvega6960]

You literally have to break the cycle of hate and revenge and learn to forgive.. this is the core of the game. Ty for the amazing video.

[@kierandansey6476]

i feel like alot of people are thinking of joel as a bad guy but i think of it as a guy who lost everythiong and has spent the last 20 years just suviving day to day , when he meets this girl who reminds him of his daughter and his father nature automatically kicks in and he feels protective even though he tried to fight it off in the beginning of their journey . so overall i just think he is a father who would do anything for his daughter and i actually hink what he did was the right thing

[@shoaibhussain7154]

Same

[@misshaila6928]

True... He did everything for Ellie as A father could do for his daughter

[@lordsofkoble]

Exactly, what father could sacrifice a daughter. I know it's happened but still. And the whole cathartic journey and bonding in part 1 hit us in the feels right? I still get the tingles on the start up screen. Where as part 2 is a headache. I keep going back to it but for reasons that are so different from part 1.

[@WestSideBarson]

Yup even Abby's dad said during the conversation if abby was the immune one he wouldn't be able to give abby up. I feel for Abby but not at the expense of joel and Ellie. 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@mmaxine1331]

He’s a selfish man doesn’t mean he’s a bad person

[@ErosMorelli]

You went above and beyond with this! Honestly one of the best ending explanation video's I have seen! 🙌

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks, Eros! 😊🙏 I really appreciate you saying that. Been working on it so long, glad to finally share it with all of you. 😊👍

[@crashngame514]

Yes, more people need to see this. Especially with all the hate this game is receiving. I really don’t understand it. Game is a masterpiece.

[@RonaldPickering]

crash N game agreed💯

[@Leotardoification]

Short answer: we aren't. Metacritic, the TLOU2 subreddit and countless other cestpools reveals this.

[@RonaldPickering]

Leotardoification fvck those outlets. The game is class. If people don’t think so, then I feel sorry for them not enjoying and appreciating as much as I did.

[@isaactam5020]

You've analyzed this game in a way I never thought of - showing characters, imagery and events as having mythological significance. The level of detail, like Yara and Lev's name having narrative meaning to Abby's story and other examples, was something truly eye-opening.

[@TLOUStrategist]

I appreciate you saying that, Isaac! So glad you enjoy it. 😉👍

[@arjenpassenier5591]

This is how I saw the game: Everyone is so focused on fighting that they never asked themself: what is the point? All those fighting and revenge felt so not rewarding, you’re only losing things. It can be either your friends and family or parts of yourself. That is what happened to both Ellie and Abby. They have lost pretty much everything for their need for vengeance This is what I learned: Revenge give you nothing but pain and misery. You have to accept and forgive to find peace in yourself.

[@chaveztyndale8468]

We didn't need a 30 hour video game to tell us revenge was bad dawg.

[@iCockaine]

thanks

[@riaali9429]

@@chaveztyndale8468 exactly I'm like ???? That's a pretty common sense lesson though right? I don't think most ppl really wanted to play a game for 30 hours to be told something the probably already know lmao

[@pooty195]

@@chaveztyndale8468 Most people logically know this, but that logic goes out the window when violence is committed upon you or your family.

[@danymirz5639]

@@riaali9429 it was 20 hours not 30

[@fr3ddovr668]

I'm really glad you made this video because it clears up and justifies Joel's death, one of the main reasons this game is hated so much. hopefully if people see this video they will give the game a second chance after seeing the reasoning behind the way the story pans out.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks for the very kind & thoughtful words, Fr3ddo! 😊🙏

[@Brandon-mk6gn]

this game is amazing! honestly underrated because everyone is so angry at abby

[@maggiearenas7565]

Yea its a good game but not a good Last of us II i was dissapointed on joels death soooooo much because he wouldnt act like that to STRANGERS and i wish they showed more of ellies amd joels relatioship

[@jjonahjameson8934]

Yeah I think if they added a small change to the previous scene with Joel and Tommy then it could have gone better. They could have had Tommy shout Joel’s name at some point and have Abby notice his name. This makes Joel more like himself from the first game as well as giving Tommy more guilt over Joel’s death

[@gutsthestruggler6378]

@@ramenuh Joel literally told tommy to leave a family on a side of the road before things got worse plus shot his neighbour without a second thought 😂 he just had that survival instinct in him I guess but I respect your opinion man

[@thebuzzz320]

This touched a heart string not gonna lie.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, Jesse. 😊🙏

[@the4fterparty]

I just beat the game last night and was looking for meaningful conversation about the ending, and the whole of the game really. Except all I keep seeing is negativity towards it, and being hung up on Joel's death. Glad this video popped up on my recommendations (almost too good of timing), and I definitely agree with a lot of the points made in this video, and I also had other observations about the story and themes as well. Glad to see a video trying to discuss the nuances of the story.

[@chinaman3806]

@@MichaelM28 Lmao go watch spongebob kid.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, Jubling! Hung up is a great way to put it...unable to move on in any meaningful way. 😉👍

[@noahruben7940]

@@chinaman3806 lmao whats the point of a reply its stupid who cares if he is a kid so what learn how to forgive instead of starting something obviously u are a stubborn person

[@ryanthrelfall1456]

Joel wouldn't have wanted Ellie to take revenge on his behalf if he knew it was going to destroy the very life he gave her. He cared about her too much. That's the reason Ellie let Abby go.

[@psychedelicyeti6053]

Yes 👏

[@BenReillySpydr1962]

Also why Joel smiled briefly at the end. I think to him it was his cross to bear and not Ellie's or even Abby's. It was his. Idk just finished it last night and wow!

[@mrantmoney1]

Thank you! It’s so simple but that point seems to be going over many peoples heads.

[@Tmtrnr22]

Makes me wonder how some people are saying that Joel is nothing but a plot-device and actually mean it.

[@carolinaarceo6844]

I was thinking that too... While Ellie was trying to drown Abby I just kept thinking that Joel would not want that.

[@andre7369]

you just forgot to mention the fact that ellie can only draw the entire face of joel in her diary after "forgiving" abby, before she only drew him covering his eyes

[@thisisafalseaccount105]

Next year there probably going to be a lot of videos saying “I was wrong about the last of us 2”

[@TheDrawnBlade]

Nah, not really. Still pretty shit~

[@lordsofkoble]

I go back and forth

[@thisisafalseaccount105]

TheDrawnBlade I already seen ten of them.

[@DrMuffin1080]

I’m already seeing a bunch of em lol

[@darthslinger1129]

@@TheDrawnBlade You're comment aged poorly

[@JackOsborneFilm]

It’s my favourite game, solely for the way it depicts there being no true ‘good’ or ‘evil’... just a world which makes people become the most horrendous versions of themselves.

[@JackOsborneFilm]

Naori san Cool.

[@williamfoster4883]

So torturing someone is not evil?

[@JackOsborneFilm]

Ellie and Abby both do bad things sure, but I'd argue neither of them are evil or good for that matter, they've just had to do abhorrent things in the name of survival.

[@williamfoster4883]

Jack Osborne joel also tortured people, but for the purpose of saving ellie. Abby tortured joel just to have revenge, what makes her sadistic in my eyes! Especially considering that she was only able to do that because he saved her right before that scene, makes this action look even more absurd to me! Joel didn‘t torture her father by the way, so the ‚an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth‘ standpoint doesn‘t quite apply to her weird golf session. If I was Abby, I‘d show some kind of mercy. Maybe I‘d beat the shit out of him, but leave him alive or kill him without him even recognizing anything. However, the way Naughty Dog decided to run this specific scene makes me see Abby as the villain from the beginning till the end!

[@somenbwithabadhistoryteach5872]

@@williamfoster4883 your eyes can easily be removed from your head. Making their perspective faint and quite.

[@brandonwilson27]

This video should just be mandatory to watch after completion of the story. Absolutely insane analysis of characters and themes. Phenomenal.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, Brandon! I’m glad you found this enjoyable & appreciate the hard work that went into it. More video essays like this one (and the Joel video) on the way soon. 😉👍

[@zenofrancis2936]

This is absolutely brilliant. Here’s something I’ve noticed... the first and last shots are of the same guitar except the first time it’s stringless/ incomplete and Joel’s holding it but at the end it’s complete and Ellie has left it behind. It goes from Joel to Ellie because it’s like handing over the role of the main character and Ellie not only completed her and Joel’s story.. she left it behind ready for the next story:

[@trey3835]

I’m gonna miss Joel. His death messed up my mind even though it’s a game

[@jhonpaulmorante3182]

It looks like it's time to move on from joel then. Quite sad, but that was an awesome experience.

[@quintinwright8487]

That's good symbolism

[@ParalyzedDreamer]

"If we can't forgive Abby..a fictional character, how in the hell are we going to heal the world?" ... Wow 😣 *applause*

[@d.godummyy]

That’s nice n all but my nigga Joel is dead Abby ain’t give him that forgiveness so she don’t deserve it

[@ParalyzedDreamer]

@@d.godummyy I liked Joel, but with his kill count justified or not, there was bound to be some sort of karma sooner or later. The whole thing is so messed up, like a messed up family lol

[@zanetlou1689]

@@ParalyzedDreamer so you even know what you are talking about mate

[@zanetlou1689]

@@ParalyzedDreamer Joel a legit main character who wanted to change for Ellie never should've died off like that

[@ParalyzedDreamer]

@@zanetlou1689 I guess you should apply to Naughty Dog and get on the writing team to save Joel’s life at this point

[@valentina7193]

When we say it's not a story for everyone we don't mean it on a condescending way (like saying "I'm more brilliant & more analytical than you") NO, rather it's meant on an emotional cathartic way. The game is not for everyone DEPENDING on how willing or not you turn out to overcome Joel's death. And by overcoming it doesn't mean that you will love him any less (in fact, after everything I even come to love & appreciate him even more + I came to realise how his death had a complete background behind it [fate had to catch up with him given that he could achieve closure for Sarah's death by saving Ellie however he had to keep the cycle of violence alive if he wanted to get her out of the hospital] & ends up having a bigger contribution for the story [Ellie broke with the domino effect that he wasn't able to by the end of part 1]) however overcoming his death means that you got to engage in a bigger emotional journey that you could have ever imagined. Many stories just leave us with the death of a beloved character & that's it but here they wanted to take us on the journey of catharsis, the path to come to terms with this loss along with Ellie (the dimension of Naughty's dog risk per se). If you couldn't get past it, you are likely stuck on this hatred loop towards the game (the best example when life imitates art). It might not have been the story you wanted to hear or that you were expecting to play for years but the boldness of its proposal itself deserves by far more recognition.

[@TLOUStrategist]

👏😁 Yup, that’s a great take! Thanks for watching and commenting, I appreciate it.

[@valentina7193]

@@TLOUStrategist thank you for the very complete insight

[@downandup2012]

Well said VC

[@bakabaka3281]

“The killing. There’s no going back from it. Right or wrong its a brand. A brand sticks. There’s no going back" - Shane 1953

[@MisterBolticus]

Idk if it gets mentioned in the video because I'm about to start watching but I saw something very interesting in twitter relevant to the ending that I will try and paraphrase When Ellie leaves for santa Barbra, she doesn't have the bracelet Dina gave her. There's a letter you can read prior to leaving from Jessie's parents, saying both Ellie and Dina are welcome to come stay with them anytime ect. When you return to the farmhouse, Ellie missing her fingers, she's also wearing the bracelet, not carrying her weapons and isn't surprised that the house is empty (doesn't call for Dina or reactive to the lack of furniture) Implying perhaps she has reconciled with Dina and returned to get the guitar Joel made for her, after trying to play it one last time (for now at least, she could still play with the 2 fret fingers or relearn left handed and use them as picking fingers) decides to leave it behind, symbolic of the fact she has finally come to terms with Joel's death and wants to do her best to move past it, all in all, she loves him but she has to let him go So maybe the ending is a lot more hopeful than you would think initially, I hope this is true, time will tell Looking forward to the video 😁

[@lockekappa500]

I actually agree more and more with this viewpoint. The simple fact that they were going to have Ellie grab Ollie before she left the farm for the final time to imply she was going back to jackson but then wanted to make it more ambiguous makes me think the above theory is true. They just wanted to keep it open.

[@starch4408]

The comment is from Ray Kincaid (not a youtuber as far as I know, just a commenter), I found his argument very interesting too

[@AllikaChambers]

I need a number 3 now 😭😭

[@clyderomijn4058]

Yes! I saw this as well and I am glad that this theory is slowly spreading around the community. Thanks for sharing!

[@starch4408]

@thesaunderschild Yes that person is Ray, that's what the tweet is talking about (a screenshot of the reply)

[@SaberRexZealot]

After 4 playthroughs I’ve finally come around on the game. My initial impressions were so negative and confused but time to reflect on it really helped. I don’t like it quite as much as the original, but it absolutely is a worthy sequel and I think in time people will come to understand that.

[@HellcoreFire]

@@chowsu944 Or he could be a trophy hunter, they do tend to do that.

[@Steger13]

No, the story still sucks abd hoppe they will remake it.

[@Sophie-dc9di]

@@Steger13dont care + didnt ask + learn how to spell

[@AZ-qw1kz]

Thank you for making an in-depth analysis of the characters and themes. A really illuminating point you brought up was that Joel made no attempt to save Tommy in that moment, which really highlights his selfishness. Even when Sarah dies, he continuously says "don't do this to me." It's how he's always been. He was perfectly in character. It's so frustrating seeing all of the shallow reactions and critiques of a game that is full of nuance, which is surprising because the first game was full of nuance as well, but it's becoming increasingly clear based on the loud minority internet reaction to Part II that so many people didn't even understand the first game they claim to love.

[@TLOUStrategist]

@Jen J Yes, I actually had that point in an early draft but cut it for brevity! “Don’t do this too me!” is the start of the soul-crushing guilt. Excellent point, Jen!

[@maraheters]

I prayed for Abby not to die when Ellie was drowning her. At that moment I felt so sick, I felt like I was killing a real person. The last of us 2 is the only game that made me feel that

[@stormshadowj10]

That was exactly how I was feeling. It was tough to watch and play.

[@brandonarreguin2123]

Not me I wanted her to kill her but shit happens

[@musingwanderer2765]

I was chanting at my tv screen “pls dun kill Abby” 😅 while watching the terror unfold. glad she didn’t. This is one hell of a story with so many dimensions to the characters

[@kalstonii]

As opposed to the 1,000 other people who had been killed up to that point?

[@maraheters]

@@kalstonii that's how our minds work

[@KrazyVideoChick]

27:09, so many Fan Boys out there are stuck in that cycle. They can't see the beauty in his story, all because their favorite character was killed.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks for watching, Derora! One day, maybe one day they’ll be released from the cycle & come to terms with Joel’s death. 🙏

[@yaboipinnyskenis4117]

I'm not mad joel died. I'm not mad abby died, im mad the way joel died, the storys plotholes, the way the story forces the emotions it wants you to feel down your throat. Ellies revenge is so bad because you have to kill dogs and pregnant ladies, and this contrasts with the gameplay where your blowing people up with Rambo arrows. Abbys such a good person she saved these kids and accepts them all while she's a serial killer without convincing remorse for killing joel. Joel NEEDED to die in this game, he's like 65 or something, he did a lot of bad things, he doesn't DESERVE to die a fast death. But the coincidences, plot armor and tommy giving away name bull makes it feel like cheap shock death. And maybe they were going for a cheap death, maybe they wanted us to feel cheated like ellie, but thags just an example of the game force feeding you the emotions you NEED to feel for this story to work. I respect your opinion and I'm glad if you enjoyed this game, im just saying... fuck abby...

[@LethalBatata]

@@yaboipinnyskenis4117 yeah that's what makes it a good game, yet getting mad and rage screaming playing cod and fortnite is yet better?? Lol a good game makes have feelings no matter what they are..

[@calummclaughlin7464]

“I might not get the upper hand but i can damn well get even”

[@spuart3308]

Freddie Hatoum There is a difference between raging in game as a result of shitty game mechanics whilst playing online games and being pissed off by a poorly constructed story that didn’t put in the leg work to tell the story it wanted. Also, being called a bigoted piece of shit for not enjoying a game is incredibly infuriating and doesn’t encourage civilised discussions

[@NJayXnockout]

"Excellent." While I could have ended my comment with this simple yet worthy praise, your TLOU2 video sets itself apart from the rest, and I'd be doing you a disservice if I don't set myself apart from other viewers who provide that exact same, much-deserved praise. Allow me to risk having this long comment remain unread as I share my top three reasons why your explanation was not just "excellent," but a cut above the rest: 1. *Connecting the Dots.* For each key point you discuss, you back it up with answers that are in the game/story. The cited evidence not only supports your explanations, but actually helps many players connect these scattered dots they may have missed. Many players have called out certain story beats as "convenience," or claimed things were "sloppy" and "made no sense." One example is Ellie not killing Abby. Some saw this as Ellie randomly forgiving Abby out of nowhere, after wanting revenge the whole game. But you connected the dots where Ellie didn't just struggle to forgive Joel; she struggled to forgive at all, period (e.g. the bigot scene). You proceeded to show the connected picture: Ellie's main arc involved finally being able to forgive. It wasn't that classic, simple revenge. For each key point, the dots were there, albeit not readily visible for players to connect. 2. *Unveiling hidden meanings.* Many reviews and analyses did not unveil this much symbolism or references. And, you didn't just make educated guesses for meanings like as the Greek references. You actually provided valid arguments that helped the player realize these meanings. My favorites were the Ellie/Jesus blood-dripping hallway, the Jackson/Elysium, and of course the significance of the character names. At first, I thought you were going to be too far-fetched; then you elaborated and connected the dots (reason 1!) with actual game/story beats! 3. *A Bold Take on Joel.* A lot of reviews, analyses, and fans judged the Joel situation harshly - using the seemingly valid defense that the old, hardened Joel would not end up in that situation (i.e. trust randos like an unsuspecting idiot). This, coupled with the "convenient" meeting between a near-death Abby and a save by Joel, makes the whole situation look sloppy and resulted in fan controversy and toxicity. Rightfully so, I guess. After all, this is our beloved Joel, and he was met with one of the most gruesome fates in any medium. So, I found it bold that you still tackled the Joel situation and explained that ultimately, Joel didn't change. He didn't bargain for his brother because he never changed. He was the same old, hardened Joel that fans knew and loved from the first game. Why was this a bold take on your part? The main argument for much of the backlash was that this was a stupid Joel. The old Joel survived 20+ years because he was hardened. This was clearly a changed Joel. Yet, it was your insightful, evidence-backed explanation about this being an unchanged Joel that at least helped show that his fate hard much more meaning behind it. *Joel v Joel: Dawn of Justice.* This isn't a fourth reason. This is me expressing my take on Joel, comparing it to your bold take, and describing how your explanation helped me understand much better. In my reaction, when bearing witness to his horrific fate (I avoided all spoilers!), while I felt that emotional, dark, twisty feeling inside, I did try understanding how this happened. I interpreted that perhaps this was a *changed* Joel who "mellowed down" in those several years in Jackson. Changed Joel clearly trusted this random girl he just saved, and while he did appear to size-up the others in that room in the mansion, he got caught off-guard simply because he "softened" the past few years. This resulted in him letting down his guard. This, to me, reflects that Joel did change - he mellowed down and look where it got him. So, did he really not change, as you explained? According to many fans' reactions, old Joel would never have gave gotten ambushed! Well, looking back after your excellent, unique (and bold) take, I remembered his facial expressions right before the first swing: he didn't speak, just made that look like he contemplated: "well, this is it. my demons finally caught up to me. I let my guard down, but didn't escape my past." Then, he proceeded to face those demons head-on when he told Abby to get it over with. That's why I thought he didn't bother bargaining. He didn't bother pleading; he allowed justice to be served for his demons - or, as you put it, his original sin. I initially interpreted it as Joel mellowed down but realized this was his past terrors finally getting him. He accepted his fate. But after considering my take on Joel against yours - Old Joel versus Changed Joel - that's where things clicked - maybe he actually didn't change! Old Joel may not have been this mellowed down, soft dude to let his guard down. However, it was clearly that same, *unchanged* old, hardened Joel, who realized his demons arrived, had no room to bargain, and therefore proceeded to be that bad-ass we know and love and, rather than plead his case to the jury so Abby could let Tommy live, citing how Joel saved her life that morning, unchanged Joel delivered his signature mean face and told her to just do it... and, on that very Dawn, justice was served. Unchanged Joel faced his fate.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Damn, N Jay! This may be the most thoughtful and epic comment I’ve ever received! Thank you not only the kind words (and recognizing the supporting evidence), but the breakdown between changed Joel & unchanged Joel. I agree, I grappled with that very point for a long while. I hope you can make the discussion this Saturday, I think you have a lot to add to the conversation! 😉👍

[@NJayXnockout]

@@TLOUStrategist Thanks! My thoughts from my emotional and impactful experience of TLOU2 are still with me after all this time, and it was your video and insights that helped me understand them and much more, as well as finally express my own. I look forward for full-fledged discussion at the event~

[@niv987]

Jesus, you should write this in a blog or review about the game. Good take too, I just got a simple question. If letting go of abby meant a lot about ellie character, then why the hell would she now down dozens people to get to abby. That doesn't make sense gameplay wise, I've mowed down people, infected, and sadly dogs too :( I just can't see gameplay and story wise letting abby go. Other than great take :) I mean I felt like john wick, a journey of vengeance. But I didn't get to kill the person who killed someone important to me, but beggars can't be choosers.

[@rieyuki]

​@@niv987 Good question - I can offer a couple answers which you don't have to accept, but hopefully will take into account to form your own answer. This will be long so please bear with me. As for why mow down dozens of humans just to get to one person (Abby), the short answer is that it's "a package deal". If Ellie wants Abby, she's going to have to fight (or slip by) them. The WLF are fully militarized (led by a former US marine), and going to consider her hostile, utilize lethal force, shoot-on-sight, and not give up information on their own members. They're not friendly nor open to strangers, the same way that Jackson is. The Seraphites are xenophobes and attack all outsiders. As for understanding not being able to kill the person who killed Joel, that requires a much longer explanation "If it's a journey intent on revenge, how come I don't get to exact revenge?" This is a complicated question requiring a lengthy answer, which may be why it is so difficult for many players to forgive Abby for what she did to Joel. It appears that a player's (in)ability to accept Abby is correlated with their own opinion of the game. I'll start by quoting a line from the video essay by Girlfriend Reviews: "Story doesn't have to follow plot". Just because the TLoU2 plot is about killing somebody in revenge, it doesn't mean it's best for the story to fulfill it. An example of "story-not-following-plot" involves the first game. The plot of the first game is about travelling cross-country to deliver a key ingredient (Ellie) to create a cure for all mankind. "We'll all be saved!!" But the ending does not deliver this because Joel sabotages those efforts instead. Storywise, it makes more sense for Joel's emotional journey to receive his "second chance" at being a father and returning to his pre-pandemic days of playing guitar on his porch and drinking coffee. Although, it is all built on a lie that has huge consequences for him later... In this sense, although the plot of TLoU2 appears to be about revenge, in my view the story is about how different characters sustain and recover from trauma. In psychology terms, I am talking about progressing through the 5 stages of grief (Kubler-Ross, if you want to google), ultimately reaching acceptance, which is the final stage. - Abby is successful in her revenge, but this act does not cause her to reach the acceptance stage of grief. She is still haunted by her father's murder. When she finally achieves acceptance, the game explicitly tells us so, through her dream involving her father who turns and smiles at her, from within that operating room which had been the location of all those prior nightmares. - Tommy is ready for acceptance in his grief for his brother, but then is permanently injured and crippled by Abby, reverting him back to the anger stage. As far as we know, at the end of TLoU2, he is still angry and bitter, and has separated from Maria. - Ellie reaches the grief stage of acceptance by paradoxically sparing Abby. Her obsession with killing Abby, thinking about her all the time, has prevented her from growing past her grief. By dropping that obsession with Abby, and instead focusing her thoughts on aspects of her relationship with Joel, she is finally able to move on. She remembers her final conversation with Joel, where they mentioned second chances and forgiveness. This is why I argue that the correct action for Ellie was to NOT kill Abby, story-wise. Had she killed Abby, it would have shown that she had learned NOTHING from the needless suffering her friends sustained as a direct consequence of her actions. Killing Abby would not have brought Joel nor Jesse back. It would have done nothing to eliminate Tommy's constant, physical pain. Most importantly, it would have felt like an empty victory, would not have brought about inner peace for herself, and not helped in healing her grief. If anything, it would have added to her own sense of self-guilt. As for John Wick, we like to joke about why it's wise to NOT kill John Wick's dog. But you may contemplate that although it starts out as a story of revenge over losing his dog (his late wife's last gift to him), by the end, the story is more about his "return to active duty" as an assassin, thereby providing us with two more awesome movies. I hope this offers interesting food for thought for you.

[@cristianofelicio1141]

Jesus Christ you guys type way too much. This is a youtube comment section not a 70 page essay in English class. 😂

[@LoreTlouG]

All of this details and symbolic ones made me fall in love with this game. I already played 30 times and still think it's a masterpiece.

[@rashaddavis9267]

And I’m in tears for the last 30 seconds- This is the best analysis I’ve seen of a game period. I’m not gonna lie it bugged me seeing all the hate for the game. The team invested so much time and hardwork to create such a dynamic and beautiful sequel just for ppl to make subtle misogynistic comments that disregard everything. Thank you for making this. I feel this should be the epilogue of the game itself.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, Rashad! I started out making a traditional review, but realized that the video that REALLY needed to be made was this one. It took several script rewrites and far more time than I ever envisioned. Thank you for showing me that my effort was not in vain! 😁👍

[@rashaddavis9267]

TLOU Strategist Indeed it’s isnt in vain. I just know your future in this will be bright!!

[@operayl]

26:43 this is exactly what audiences need to hear.

[@major4211]

As a Christian, I was very aware and impressed by ND's brilliantly woven inclusion of religious imagery. Truly an amazing game and a great analysis!!

[@Merkyace23]

Are you talking about the cult like folk who had a whistle that gave me the shivers.?

[@major4211]

@@MichaelM28 You need to relax, man. You seem tense.

[@major4211]

@@Merkyace23The cult was more of a way to show how a group can misinterpret religious text for their extremist agenda, which we see reflected even in our history. Bro, when I was going through the park and they shot the arrow at me, I straight up almost had a heart attack. The religious imagery I was talking about was more subtle like Ellie walking through the corridor at the end and Abby strung up. Things like that.

[@Merkyace23]

@@major4211 I understand brother well said. Absolutely loved the game.

[@musicheartsrandoms4326]

Michael McGrath you’re fun at parties aren’t you

[@ArtVandelay_1998]

Perfect.. I agree and have little to say because the video was so good. You’re time spent on this video was worth it. This was great Strats and I feel the same on your thought process. I actually haven’t loved a game as much as the first one. This game is awesome. Hope all is well with you, sir.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you so very much, ArtVandelay 1998! 😊🙏❤️

[@Trebuchet26]

I am Replaying on Survivor now: I will keep this video and your Interpretation of the Game in mind, to try to enjoy the Characters more (this time)... Great effort, thank you.

[@julie2424]

Same 😁 Where are all the toilets?

[@Trebuchet26]

@@julie2424 Hmmm, I might have to do another Ultimate TLOU Toilet Tour... or maybe I will wait for Factions 2 for that... ;)

[@cmale123]

He kinda off on a lot thing in review. Joel was not selfish. He should never save abby. He saved and helped elli that enough prove not selfish. Joel never regret what he did not because he selfish, because it right thing to do.. The ending is when eli see joel play guitar reminded she able forgive people. Was able she forgive joel and abby wrong?

[@julie2424]

@@cmale123 fairs

[@xoreign]

@@cmale123 How does him saving one girl in exchange for millions of lives not constitute for selfish? Like are people seriously this blind? It honestly scares me.

[@AndreaTargaryen84]

As someone who lost her father at a young age, this story hits close to home. It was an overwhelming yet beautiful experience. I’m a fan of The Last Of Us since day one and I mourned Joel’s death in real life (I literally felt as if one of Abby’s friends punched me in the stomach just like they did to Ellie). It’s amazing, definitely GOTY and it doesn’t deserve all the hatred

[@TLOUStrategist]

I agree, Andrea...& thank you for your thoughtful comment. 😊🙏

[@zaracatunga1879]

Dude, TLOU 2 story is so complex to me but your explanations made me understand it better. Thanks T-Strats

[@TLOUStrategist]

Glad I could help!

[@mr.centsible8793]

The majority of the analysis was good... but the last 30 seconds = 🤯

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, Mr. Centsible! I did my best to offer up that it’s well in their interest to see the video through until the very end...I’m glad you found it worthwhile! 😁👍

[@therevealingscience]

A very thought-provoking analysis of the game. Joel pretty much sealed his fate after the events of part 1, and I believe part of him knew it. Though Joel wasn’t as hardened as part 1, there were definitely glimpses of his old self. One I’m thinking of is the flashback where he and Ellie go get guitar strings. After finding the dead couple Ellie questions Joel about what happened at the hospital. Joel clearly didn’t want to discuss it and tried to sway the conversation. Ellie I know didn’t believe him, hence, the next flashback. I enjoyed Abby’s character arc, and the parallels between her and Ellie are uncanny. In the end, I believe Ellie did forgive Joel. Leaving the guitar by the window with sunlight beaming on it, to me, was a sign of forgiving Joel, and yes, also letting go. I don’t think she’ll ever forget him obviously, but I think she’s finally at peace with it.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks for watching, and for the great comment, Dimitri!

[@astrolividus5236]

yes!!!!!! this is the best video I’ve ever seen explaining the game, truly worth the wait! I really loved the fact that you added the player as a character too, I feel a lot better knowing that forgiving Abby was the right thing to do :( people made me feel so guilty about it for so long. I didn’t know that Yara meant little butterfly and arabic is my first language haha. the ending for me was so emotional I didn’t even realize the parallels between Joel and Abby. but tbh the entire game was extremely emotional I didn’t understand anything until this video, you just converted all our feelings into words. Such amazing work Strats... truly outstanding video about a great game, you can take that break now Strats, you deserve it.

[@TLOUStrategist]

This means a lot to me, Jay. I think a lot of people think I’m this career KZbinr with nothing better to do than make videos all day, but the truth is far from that. I appreciate your open mind, heart, and sincere comments. Thank you! 😊🙏

[@arminamz5011]

I wish everyone understand the game like you and me. Sometime when I read the hate comments about TLOU2 I think we are the last of us.

[@relaxhedx7064]

As someone with PTSD, I really liked the ending of this game. This is just my opinion, but for me - At the end Ellie was suffering with PTSD, obviously - not sleeping, not eating, the flashbacks, the going off by herself into the woods, and the feeling she HAD to go after abby - is realistic to me. it's difficult to describe anyone without it, but PTSD can often feel like you are physically trapped with no way out of your own reality. That your whole life is closing on you. That the past is forever there, suffocating you. Obviously you relive it through flashbacks, but it's more than that. When Ellie said she had to go after abby, it was because she felt she had to not because she wanted to - She wanted to stay with her new family, but she had to stop her brain reliving the traumatic past again and again. She had to escape the trap, and she felt the only way was to kill abby - the person who really made her feel trapped to begin with. but I think she knew, deep down, it wouldn't help her escape. but hey, desperate times, amiright? When ellie finally confronted abby, what were her words? "I cant let you leave" She could have said anything else "I won't let you leave" or "I'm going to kill you". Those would be words from someone confident, someone making the rules. but she didn't. those words "I can't let you leave" were very specific. they're words from someone not in control - someone who feels they didnt make the decision. A soldier following orders would say "I can't let you leave" or someone feeling like they had no choice in the matter, someone trapped - like ellie. At the very end ellie didnt have to kill Abby. When she was on the verge of killing abby, when abby couldnt fight back and was about to drown, Ellie had basically won at that point. it didnt even matter if abby lived or died past that point, as there was nothing abby could have done to change the outcome, and ellie realized that she probably has "won". And it didn't help. There was no opening of the trap, it didnt fix anything so she let abby go and she wept. still trapped. It wasnt until she came back, sat alone with guitar she could no longer play, and thought about joel and forgiveness that, maybe, she realized that the only way out of the trap was to forgive mistakes of the past. forgive yourself for not being able to change the past. forgive others for being human. I dunno. maybe I'm just seeing what I want to see, see what makes sense to me. But still, I like the ending. People complain about the ending, saying ellie didn't get her revenge against abby. but they miss the fact that everything after the farmhouse - Ellie isnt going for revenge. Shes going because she feels like she has to, to try to fix herself.

[@jbrickwork]

I’ve gone from disliking the story to loving it you couldn’t be more right about the 3rd character being the player and how they have to learn to forgive in order to rebuild I honestly realised I played the game with tunnel vision and I’m so impressed with the theory behind it I cannot wait for the next one now and I really hope we see Abby and Elle working together 🤯👍

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks, Joe! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I actually held a livestream on Saturday to answer questions from viewers & discuss the video at greater length (2 hours). There is a point where someone asked me if I there’s a Part III & what would it be about...I think you’ll love hearing it, very much along those lines. 😉👍

[@salamander337]

Ehh...I just rolled my eye at how cheesy all this sound after they tried so hard to manipulate us into making us feel bad for Abby. I mean c'mon, they have Abby set up to kill Joel and then after play with puppy so we can feel some empathy for her but when we play as Ellie we have no choice but to killed the dogs. See my point? When we fought Ellie in the theater they wouldn't let us play as Ellie not when Abby was in full health and strength or we would hate her even more so we play as Abby to try and kill Ellie and we can't dodge her melee attack. They're trying to test our patience with her as the bad guy but it backfire as everyone is enjoying letting Ellie killed Abby over & over again. Lol! The second time these two meet we finally play as Ellie and guess what? They completely change Abby's physique. She was skinny and starving and completely lost her muscle mass. This is Naughty Dog trying to make us feel bad for her so we won't want revenge anymore. They robbing us of a true boss fight. All we got was a sympathy fight. They told the story in a wrong way. If it was different this game might be the game of the year but with this ending I just can't with this game...(sigh).

[@TheFreshTrumpet]

salamander337 newsflash dawg, every story is about emotionally manipulating its audience into feeling some type of way about a character. I don’t think their goal was to get us to sympathize with her as much as it was to empathize with her. I mean they kick off Part 1 with Joel losing his daughter and Ellie being an orphan with a likable personality so they’re easier to empathize/sympathize with throughout their journey. But they didn’t wanna just do that again in Part 2, they purposely made it more challenging to empathize with Abby through the way they sequenced the events, it would’ve been way easier to swallow her arch if they’d switched up the order but that would defeat what they were going for. Understandably won’t work with everyone, especially if that’s not the kinda narrative/gaming experience they were looking for, but definitely won’t if you’re actively resisting it and viewing every moment of hers through the lens of “they’re just tryna make me like Joel’s killer well fk that.” I’m js the game’s challenging us to exercise empathy in a way that creates a significant amount of cognitive dissonance. I think there’s strong value in it, as evidenced by people in this comment section alone saying it helped em reevaluate their shit, which is pretty cool imo

[@salamander337]

@@TheFreshTrumpet I get it. I do. Most of us know what Naughty Dog or Neil Drunkman was trying to do and I wish it wasn't for this game tho. It didn't work. In movies and tv shows are a different mediums to tell this kind of revenge story so that's why it will work ...well sometime. You aren't required to think a lot as to playing a video game. Playing TLOU2 it was so easy to tell the obvious of what their intentions were and it comes off as insulting our intelligence. A lot people were emotionally detached from the the characters, while playing this game. It is as you said they trying to make us like Joel's killer. Joel was like a father figure to most of us right? It like them saying "try to understand why she killed your dad. You have to forgive her". Look I know my dad has a bad past life but he's still my dad and I don't really NEED to forgive his murderer. See my point? So that why I was turn off by this game but who knows maybe this game really is ahead of it time and we will revisit it 30 years in the future to finally understand it? 🤷‍♂️

[@TheFreshTrumpet]

salamander337 I don’t blame ya for interpreting it that way, I’m not the type to sht on anyone for interpreting it differently (art is subjective yadda yadda) I’m just advocating from the perspective that, maybe their goal wasn’t to get us to forgive her like you’re saying, cuz I certainly didn’t take it that way and likewise a hell of a lot of other people in this comment section alone didn’t, either. But I understand “forgiveness” as absolved from blame, others take it as absolved from consequences. I think Ellie could absolve her from the desired consequence of killing her without absolving her of blame. And more importantly even if theoretically we could know that her character “forgave” Abby, it’s not my story to tell. I think they can tell it without condescending to their audience that they have to forgive her, too, I genuinely think they just wanted us to practice empathy and understanding. We can empathize without sympathizing, and in doing that I felt like I could honor my value in still judging Abby negatively without supporting violent judgment against her. I just know I started off, no joke, l o a t h i n g her even halfway through her campaign. I literally texted a friend “lol @this game tryna make me root for her,” I think the devs knew that 99% of ppl could see their empathy goal as soon as we started playing as her, it obviously wasn’t subtle haha. I especially felt dissonance at having to play her in the theatre fight, that was beyond upsetting for me. But sure tf enough against my best intentions, I realized by the final beach fight that I felt a similar sense of discomfort and hesitance in playing Ellie against Abby, I just didn’t want either of them to win or lose, I wanted it to stop. I don’t think I sympathized with Abby then, I just empathized with not wanting either of them to keep this destructive shit up. That’s an emotional shift Ive literally never experienced from any form of media, and I know a lot of other people experienced that, too. I offer all that not from the mindset of “this is the way you should feel about it too,” rather “this is the way I felt that left me feeling a deep sense of gratitude for this game, and I hope you have the chance to eventually feel this way, too.” Long shot coming from a stranger on the internet I know haha I just really feel for peeps who loved Part 1 and felt betrayed by Part 2 and I like to think ppl don’t have to feel that way about it if another POV clicks for them the way this one did with me. I mean I could write a book on the central theme of trauma alone, there’s a shit ton to unpack and think about with this game imo. But it’s not for everyone and I get that, too, so again hope this doesn’t come off as invalidating to your POV, not my intention. Edit jesus sry for the novel I type a lot when I’m high 😂

[@josecadena8577]

My one disagreement is when you say “Joel doesn’t care for anyone, even himself” yes he put Ellie in harms way but he clearly cared for her.

[@ashleyharris9448]

He loved her like his daughter

[@cedie121213]

Joel really does care for people, but they all just either died or left him. He probably think that getting attached to the person will ended up just getting the person killed so he really tried everything for ellie.

[@Eliwi]

I think obviously he cares for her, but in a selfish way. He didn't let her have agency, or make her own choices; he himself made the choice to save her, when he knows she would have sacrificed herself for mankind. Instead, he took that from her (she even says that to him at the end). So yes, of course he cares for her but his actions are selfish and have done a lot of emotional damage to Ellie.

[@ashleyharris9448]

Ok the only selfish thing he did was take Ellie but the making her Decisions for her it’s wrong yes but he did think it was to protect her and the guy in the video makes it seem like Abigail did no wrong

[@Eliwi]

@@ashleyharris9448 @Ashley Harris I... don't think we watched the same video, lol. He in never shape or form said Abby did no wrong; she was just in a quest for revenge (against Joel) just like Ellie. Abby never met Joel before killing him, all she knew is he killed her father AND murdered a bunch of people (almost all the Fireflies in that base). She doesn't know Ellie and Joel's story, all she knows is Joel is a murderer and she wants revenge. You can say that's bad, but it would be just as bad as Ellie killing everyone of Abby's friends (because it's the same cycle of violence and revenge). Back to the point with Joel being selfish, the whole first game is him being an absolute asshole to Ellie, we can empathize with him because he lost Sarah, but Ellie doesn't know that at first. So of course she's hurt. She's been alone, Riley and her mom died, then she gets stuck with Joel who clearly doesn't want her (and he says that to her), until he gets attached and then can't let her go. This isn't a healthy relationship for either of them, which is why Ellie has such a hard time forgiving Joel, because he never said he was sorry! He said he would do it all over again, because for him, saving her is the right thing. But Ellie clearly doesn't agree with that (bc of her own reasons), she would have rather made her own decisions. That's why I think Joel is selfish, which DOESN'T MEAN he doesn't care for her or love her, but he IS a selfish person. His feelings always come first, because that's just how he is, how he feels security.

[@JohnDoe-tt6oo]

Brilliant explanation, I was a little confused myself about the ending but this cleared everything up! I hope that someday the people who can’t let go of Joel find their own happiness and learn to let go

[@TLOUStrategist]

Very wise words, John. I agree. 😊🙏

[@LUCKO2022]

I will find my happiness ONCE I KILL ABBY. It's that simple. Look at Kill Bill, that is a revenge story, did The Bride (Beatrix) let Bill live at the end? NO, she killed his ass. No More Heroes, another revenge story, and did Travis let Jeane live at the end? NO, he killed her ass. Abby WRONGED Ellie. Abby never asked Joel about what happened that night, how her prick and idiot of a father tried to stab Joel with a scalpel just because he was taking his new guinea pig whom he wasn't sure he would make a cure. Nope, she clubbed Joel and was proud of it, even AFTER he saved her life from that runner earlier in the game. This whole game is a mess from gameplay right down to it's garbage story. If you like it, fine and dandy, I am glad everyone who liked the game is happy. I am NOT. My personal opinion is that I hate the game, it looks crappy when compared to Phantom Pain, it plays poorly when compared to Phantom Pain, and hell as little story Phantom Pain had it still was better REVENGE tale than Last of Us II, and I didn't like Phantom Pain at all.

[@JohnDoe-tt6oo]

Darth Grumpy Bill literally slaughtered everyone that Beatrix loved and cared for (on her fucking wedding day no less) and even his own child as Beatrix admitted she was pregnant before he proceeded to pull the trigger. This makes Bill the ultimate antagonist in any revenge story as his actions are quite unforgivable; he even tries manipulating Beatrix into having a family with him when he is confronted showing that Bill was ready to cross any moral line without hesitation. I don’t see any relation (other than wanting revenge) between the two stories; one is black and white while the other is grey. Also, Phantom Pain was a masterpiece that ended a legendary IP and to call it anything else would be negligent (e.g., comparing TLOU 2 to Kill Bill).

[@katlyndobransky2419]

Joel had more of a story to tell, and the devs took that away

[@JohnDoe-tt6oo]

@@katlyndobransky2419 not really, his story was told already in the first game.

[@ZorianderZero]

Dude, I literally have goosebumps for 10 minutes after your last 2 minutes: « YOU » are the third main character... I felt like this was something we had to experience and I found this game magnificent but you made it even better by giving me a deeper understanding! THANK YOU SO MUCH!

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, Zoriander! I’m glad you found this video, watched it all the way until the end, and enjoyed it. To me this game is completely unique, & never been done before. A brave & bold move by Naughty Dog, and I commend them for that. 😉👍

[@raegin12]

Honestly the ending was hard for me on the first play through. I was emotional and didn't want a bit to die because I had empathy and understanding for both of them. Both of their stories and why they did what they did. Neither of them deserve to die and I'm glad neither did.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Agreed, Raegin...I felt the same. 🙏

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you for your time and consideration in support of this video! If you have more specific questions that you would like to ask me about in regards to the topics I mentioned here, please join me for an interactive livestream here on KZbin this Saturday, July 11th at 3:00pm PST/6:00pm EST!

[@mansioncapital3358]

I love your videos great job

[@FracturedHope01]

thankful there is at least one video giving an honest, open ended interpretation of this very heart wrenching work of art. All I see on KZbin is hate, hate, and hate. I always learn something new from your videos Tstrats! Thank you for this video!

[@joelcoronadofam]

♾🦋#Infinite_Transformation

[@arturovelasquez6701]

Fantastic job in explaining👍

[@alienatedyouth7errr]

That was deep 🤯

[@CrazyWizza]

Jesus, T-STRATS. The explanation in this video really brought the ideas and lessons Part 2 was trying to show in plain view. It was thought provoking and had me thinking about my own playthrough. The ingenious symbolism of Naughty Dog is outstanding and you detailed review and explanation of it all was wonderfully executed. The biblical references and the real world parallels are amazing and I'm sure, without you, no one would have caught on. In the end, though I despised Abby in the beginning, I couldn't find any hate in my heart for her; rather instead of hate, I found respect. I just wanted them to stop hurting each other and to find their own happy endings. I hope Ellie finds a sort of peace. Preferably alongside JJ and Dina ♥

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, Milad...I think this comment accurately describes many of our experiences. I’m so glad you enjoyed this video, & thanks for walking this journey with us for so long. It’s been quite the trip! 😁👍

[@mikejang]

this might be the best analysis of the game i've seen. thank you. for me, the last of us part ii should be in the conversation for one of the greatest games of all time because it transcends gaming. the script is unbelievable and better than anything i've ever seen. i think those who have been unnecessarily angry with the ending have just been too conditioned to see "happy" unrealistic disney endings. if ellie had gotten her full vengeance and killed abby, the impact of this game would've decreased 10 fold. and honestly, i bought what naughty dog was selling. i definitely grew empathetic towards abby, so i'm glad she got to escape with lev. abby is just as broken as ellie is. in the last of us universe, there really are no protagonists or antagonists.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Agreed, Michael! Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment...this game is a wholly unique experience for sure!

[@remytt4]

As a human being... I have lived this cycle of hatred... I had a bad story that left me in a 4 years of hatred against someone... 2015 to 2019 I faced that person couple of months after everything started, in a hockey ball match (We were playing in the same team before it crushed) I won the battle but in exchange of being physically mistreated. When I had the opportunity to settle the score 3 and half years later by facing that person... 3 times (We were playing in a mixed category and both team in the same division), it NEVER happened cause my ''enemy'' never showed up and when she was in the crowd when I was playing in a different team and different league, I was totally losing my mind and I was always playing like shit. One day, when I was watching games in the crowd, outta nowere, when I let my guard down for once, the last person who I ever wanted to have side to me... She apologized to me of what happened 4 years ago... A 2-3 minutes when she showed her guilt and trying to reassure me that I was not a bad person. But I was cold and not interested of any truce... I only said 2 sentences ''What do you want?'' (When she wanted to talk with me) and ''Only time will tell'' (When she was done talking) Months later in a male category, my team was in a downfall, always losing... Hours before the match, 2 missings spots for declaring not showing in the match... My captain decided to call up my enemy to complete the spots and play... 4 years of hatred... She and I were playing like we never left... And we made peace, shake hands. But! Since I played The Last Of Us 2, with Abby's murder to Joel, I was shocked and eager to kill Abby to avenge Joel's death and we saw Ellie spared Abby... That reminds me that I may not entirely made peace... Cause sometimes, I always have a flashback or visions of a potential match-up... Is it because I'm not fully recovered...? The Last Of Us 2 clearly succeed to bring me IN the game...! And your last words showed that I have another long road face to me...

[@johnsideris2053]

Thank you. Just, thank you. I hated all those guys moaning and bitching about how Joel died and why didn't Abby died and so on. Your video was an apocalypse and I am spreading the word. Well done.

[@BboyYoutubeHandle]

Thank you for all the work you clearly put into this. It’s a fantastic take and I’m glad you really dug deep into the narrative. We need more of this type of discussion in the conversation of this game.

[@TLOUStrategist]

I agree, Isaiah! This took me weeks to make, and I was surprised no one else has touched on these things yet. The reveal of the third main character is pretty damn amazing, and a completely unique gaming experience from the usual fare. 😉👍

[@BboyYoutubeHandle]

TLOU Strategist Absolutely. For me, this game had to be one of the most impactful stories I have ever experienced. It has stuck with me everyday simply because of the growth the story put me through.

[@khyse]

i think it’s unfair how many people are hating on this game. i thought it was great, maybe misunderstood

[@mrawful4940]

Stfu

[@TanWam]

@adolf Hitler completely different worlds, stories, characters... everything. Comparing GOW3 and this is fucking retarded

[@TanWam]

@adolf Hitler no because Micah was a clear villain and a vile person, Part II has no villains, everything Abby did was understandable from her perspective, Ellie killing her would have been a terrible way to go because it doesn't make sense for her character, letting Abby go and ending the cycle of violence is what needed to happen for her to actually progress in life, if she killed her she wouldn't have felt any better, just like how Abby thought killing Joel would make her feel better but she still has nightmares even after his death.

[@TanWam]

@L C I know, it may begin as a revenge story but as a whole it's about forgiveness, acceptance and progression.

[@TanWam]

@adolf Hitler I don't wanna argue with someone who doesn't understand, you just don't get it.

[@nucainchicksaw4411]

The interpretation of the game in your view was very eye-opening for me. I didn’t even consider the opportunity that the story had parallels to religious scriptures. And the fact that you were as a player one main part of the story at the end is very very creative in a way we didn’t seen before in the history of video games. Thank you very much for sharing your thoughts on The last of us part 2. I just discovered your channel and you can be sure getting a new subscriber! I really hope You upload more videos about The last of us.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, Nucain! I actually held a livestream yesterday and discussed this video & more at length. If you’re interested in hearing more about it, you can check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpLOYnxtmZKfb9E

[@m.l.2871]

Well... Bloodborne did that befire kind of too Its a little different but it sure does relate to the player

[@Hachidiego]

I've seen tons and tons of videos about TLOU2 and yours added a lot more than I already understood about this game. Great video! I loved the last part in particular.

[@mattbf0289]

I wish people would watch this and realize what you said about the game it clears up so much about the game

[@jaredbuchholtz6364]

How do you feel about the fact that Joel and Tommy save Abby towards the beginning of the game? Clearly this was a selfless act, was Joel on a path away from selfishness? Or do you think he had a different motive for saving her?

[@TLOUStrategist]

This is an excellent question, Jared! Many of the comments, questions, & criticisms of this video center around this very thing. Thus, I'm making another video dedicated to answering this very question. I hope to complete it by next week. ;)

[@jaredbuchholtz6364]

I’m looking forward to it, you just gained a subscriber!

[@droosiesfriendlystuff2336]

Love the video, but there's one flaw I feel. You continuously refer to "Joel's sin". I would argue the "original sin" falls on Abby's father. While his intentions were pure (as were Joel's), his intention to go through with the surgery on Ellie knowing full well it will kill her is murder. I have two children and I don't care if they have the cures to cancer, COVID, AIDS and Nickelback in their bodies, if someone tries to kill them without their consent, they're having to go through me, just like Joel did. You say that Joel murdered the Fireflies because he hadn't yet healed from the loss of his actual daughter, Sarah. I would argue that his relationship HAD healed him, which is why he fought through hell to change things this time around. The end all for me is this, had Abby's father waited until Ellie woke up and given her the CHOICE to sacrifice her life for the greater good, it would have avoided all of this mess created in the second game. Joel would be able to live with it, because he knows it's what she would have wanted and would have understood what it meant. They could've said their goodbyes and the Fireflies would have lived. Abby's dad would've lived and not sent either character on their journey of revenge.

[@MDoorpsy]

Wow, hadn't even made the connection that Abby keeps having nightmares of her going through a hospital, coming upon her worst fear, and must descend into a hospital and fight the most horrifying monster in the entire series to save Yara. And its only after doing so that she finally has a good night's sleep.

[@dimitry8013]

Thanks!

[@DanFarrell98]

Over a year later I’m still learning new things about this game. Like your comparisons to Elysium and Tommy’s eye for an eye symbolism, just incredible!

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, Dan! If you haven't watched the follow up videos to this one (kzbin.info/aero/PLVzX1W5CTNvexDo_VPHbPdZ3w28N6LCCW) I highly suggest you do so... I think you'll find even more details to love about Part II. ;)

[@maoaadriao]

I cant believe i got another interpretation of this game, i had my own when i finished the game, but over the last 2 weeks i've just been reading so many of them, that at this point it would be foolish to not call this art, this thing its like a game, a movie and a book all in one, this game makes me excited for the future of video games!

[@mr.faithful97]

And everybody said the story sucked smh, this is the game of the year for me, thank you Naughty Dog for allowing me to play this beautiful masterpiece.

[@everestkueiesmilla3145]

it sucked

[@mr.faithful97]

@@everestkueiesmilla3145 nah

[@jadenfuentes4515]

Everest Kuei Esmilla maybe u just suck

[@everestkueiesmilla3145]

@Adrein Bisaillon nope story was shit

[@isaceltnas9479]

It cant just suck. They where some parts that where Good

[@anonymousguest9274]

damn dude, that last words was amazed me.. now i understand what this is all about..

[@TLOUStrategist]

@Setwaka BPK 🙏❤️

[@_Refurbished_]

This...this is the proper breakdown of the game "I" played, and not the game so many others played. It's a brilliant game. I was able to absorb most of what you discussed here on my 1st play through. It was great to see the few things I missed. Great breakdown!

[@alliemcknight7149]

I loved this analysis of the game, it really gave me the closure I needed after playing TLOU2. It also provided me with more of an appreciation for the story itself and not just the gorgeous graphics and epic gameplay. I really appreciated the explanation for Hebrew names and the insight and symbolism it provided for the character development. I liked the evaluation of the similarity in the relationship between Joel and Ellie and the relationship that we witness grow between Abby and Lev. The comparison between Joel walking in the hospital in TLOU and Ellie walking to the beach in TLOU2 makes that entire portion of the game so much more impactful. This was my favorite video explaining and evaluating the TLOU2 and all its glory, thank you.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you for your kind words, Allie McKnight! 😁👍

[@userillusion86]

This analysis was absolutely masterful!!!

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you. 😊👍

[@Owen01]

This video was honestly amazing man. You can tell that you put a lot of time, research and energy into making it. One of my favourite videos you have made 💙

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, Owen! 😊🙏

[@bobbybarksgaming]

This was a great analysis of the game and ending. You’ve put a lot of thought and effort into this and it paid off. Well put together and gives people food for thought. Hope it helps get the message across about how great a game this actually was. 👍👍

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks, Bobby! It may sound like an awful idea, but I'm hoping it starts an ongoing discussion with the community in regards to what the game was actually about. I appreciate you checking this out. 😉👍

[@mayaaa2695]

Also just wanted to add this. I don’t think Joel is solely the one to blame. The fireflies should have told Ellie the truth. Allow her to decide if she wants to do this or not. Joel did in his heart what he felt was right. Everybody involved betrayed her.

[@pooty195]

I'm glad you pointed out the connection between Ellie's first human kill and the final scene in the water. I think it was a very conscious decision and shows how she has become the hunter in that moment, drowning someone just trying to protect a little boy. When I first played it though I did wonder, why did Ellie see Joel on the porch in that moment? I think its ultimately due to her inability to deal with her trauma and how her ego is so connected with getting revenge. As her journey continues Ellie's flashback memories mirror her emotional state - the more fucked up things she does the more her memories of Joel go from bad to worse. By Santa Barbara she and us as players are far removed from the positive memories of Joel and only see his bloody face. She notes this in the journal as well - how she doesn't want to talk about him because its too painful. So when she is in the water and has Abby's life in her hands - I think her ego is finally released from the revenge quest, since shes not drowning Abby anymore, just some pathetic skinny girl who has suffered enough at the hands of pure evil. She finally sees a positive memory of Joel again - one where he admits his unconditional love for her and also where she begins to try to forgive him.

[@magritteetmoncouteau]

I think you reconciled me somewhat with the game's narrative. Thank you, I really think this was your best video ever.

[@TLOUStrategist]

This means a lot to me that you shared this...thank you, Panzer! 😊🙏

[@abzyac]

Don't understand why so many people hated the story. It was really good. Change of story and the different underlying emotions and etc.

[@TLOUStrategist]

I agree Abzy, and it's partially why I decided to make this video instead of a traditional "review"...people can't come to terms with losing Joel. Their anger is clearly reflected in Ellie's cycle of violence... hopefully they can come to that realization over time. 😊🙏

[@komix1873]

True words..i also really like the sad Story of elli...

[@JelaniSuper]

@ Abzy, I think the story being told is good but the way it was told (as far as timeline jumps) made it much less enjoyable. Abby’s story is good but having to play as her while wanting to kill her, and already knowing how/when all of her friends are going to die took away from the narrative imo

[@holaamigo3084]

Because She-Hulk got away, Joels death wasn’t justified, Ellie loses two fingers, and Ellie loses everything. I sympathize for her father’s death but Joel is the reason she is drawing breathe. They better make a sequel where she dies

[@Alex-gs4nk]

@@holaamigo3084 sorry dude :( you failed naughty dog's test

[@Rrrarai]

At the end, I couldn't press the button when I was about to kill Abby. I just stop, I didn't want her to die. SO she killed me. When I realize I had to press the button, I was almost screaming. Truly an amazing ending. Thank you so much for this video.

[@loganentertainment1814]

We can all agree that Joel isn't a perfect guy, but we should consider this. He lost his daughter Sarah on his birthday, he lost Tess, Sam and Henry died right in front of him and Ellie, and he's raised Sarah all by himself. Sure, Joel's selfish actions at the firefly hideout had to have consequences at some point; but, I don't think he deserved to die. We literally just started to know Joel in the first game. I would have been fine if he died close to the end of the game. NaughtyDog could have made part 2 about all the main characters and side characters in the first game. For example: 1: We could find out how Joel met Tess and Bill. 2: We could have learned how the world went to hell from Sam and Henry's perspective. 3: We could learn how Ellies parents died. 4: We could learn how the Cordyceps fungus has the ability to infect people. 5: We could learn about David's origin. 6: We could see how Tommy's community was created. NaughtyDog could have used these options to expand on the story, hell, they could have released a game called: The Last of Us | Expanded Edition. Either way, I still think TLOU 2 is ok, but could have been better. If anyone disagrees and thinks TLOU 2 is great, I won't judge you.

[@MagicSpartan1992]

I often like to think about how if Ellie let it go and stayed with Dina and JJ, then Abby and Lev would have died on that beach. Ellie’s choices lead to them being saved and they made it to the Santa Barbara fireflies, because of her.

[@whosiliya]

A Respectful youtuber and a Respectful game

[@alexnedin]

This game is incredible. I’ve seen so many interpretations of what happened, and totally understand why people think so differently about everything. I think it’s because Part 2 is more “points of views” story, rather than a moralistic tale. I felt and thought many of the things you did, but surprisingly, a lot of other things I view from completely different angles. This game will be discussed throughout history even more than Part 1. I think it’s one of its kind🤝

[@TLOUStrategist]

Agreed, Alex! They could’ve gone for an easy route...but I’m so glad they didn’t. The passions it has stirred up is pretty amazing. 😁👍

[@efuraa]

this has to be the most accurate interpretation of everything. I was not sure why I liked the game so much vs other people, I had to investigate why people were so mad about it. I have to congratulate you sir to give me such a great perspective to figure out why. In the end, I was able to have empathy for both Abby and Ellie and forgave them individually.

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you for your kind words, Efraim. 😊🙏

[@mjfalcon007]

Wow! What a conclusion! This was fantastic man you nailed it. I am so glad I watched this, you revealed so much I missed. I was never angry with Abby in the end and certainly enjoyed playing as her and had sympathy for her in the end but what you have shared definitely expands the experience and makes me appreciate the story even more. Thank you so much for taking the time to create this video.

[@aaltair97]

16:20 "descend higher and higher"

[@markm4394]

great video. I don't think Joel felt guilty for saving Ellie. As he said in his last conversation with Ellie, he would do it again with no regret. I just think he was trying to rebuild their relationship because he loves her. NO Matter what people think, you can never say this game is the result of LAZY writing.

[@TLOUStrategist]

I agree Mark! It may be “challenging” or divisive writing, but certainly not lazy. ☺️👍

[@2easy2hard56]

this was a great example i like the fact that u included the player in story

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks! But it was all Naughty Dogs design, I simply observed it and brought it to light. 😊👍

[@thattarek]

Oh man... I guess, this is the beginning of my healing journey... That "YOU" around the end hits hard. I finished the game less than 24 hours ago and oh man little did I know. This is perfection, this is tlou starts❤️

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks, Tarek! It’s an extremely emotional game...really puts you through the wringer. I’m glad you enjoyed this tho, took a lot of effort to put together. 😉👍

[@thattarek]

@@TLOUStrategist And it shows man, I really do appreciate your content. And about the game, it's the only experience that I truly felt it's bigger than me. It's just so damn brilliant

[@twelve1042]

This video is absolutely amazing and made me understand the game so much more and appreciate it all the more as well. God bless you, you amazing thing you!

[@hiol6046]

I appreciate it so much, i hated the game just reflects how selfish am i, but you explained it all, this game is a masterpiece, i got goosebumps watching this, thanks man, really, people NEED to see this

[@romeobaboi3905]

I finished the game two weeks ago and I´m still contemplating about the story und why it affected me so much. I´ve never experienced something like this before - neither in games nor in movies or a series. Of course I would have loved feeling better at the end. But this game is not about strengthening our love for the characters we cherished over the years in the way we wanted it to be. This game is about their true nature and accepting that Ellie for example is not behaving the way that I would have liked better because I want her to be happy. She has a big burden to bear and she´s only 19. Your interpretation is very insightful and your conclusion is just formidabel. The Last of Us Part II is undoubtly a masterpiece that left me sad and very impressed at the same time. It´s not a story in a classic sense. It felt merciless and very serious. Life is sometimes this way if we like it or not. I´ve never seen that aspect of existence reflected in a game in a way like this. Yeah, this piece of art is truly an indicator for your own ability to show empathy.

[@TLOUStrategist]

That’s exactly it, Romeo. What Naughty Dog has done here is attempted to inspire change within us all, by literally putting us in situations that will both challenge & anger us. It’s a story within a story, and a game within a game. If we can’t find a way to forgive each other, then it’ll truly be the last of us as a species.

[@romeobaboi3905]

@@TLOUStrategist Well said. I wonder what Naughty Dog will have in store for us with TLOU Part III... Time will tell. Please keep up the great work. I´ve enjoyed your content for some time now. Looking forward to TLOU Part II Factions and I think I´m not the only one. :-) Stay safe!

[@psychedelicyeti6053]

You should watch the movie City of God. It touches on pointless violence, cycles of revenge, but still offers hope and success. Not nihilistic like Last of Us Part II.

[@romeobaboi3905]

@@psychedelicyeti6053 Thanks for your movie recommendation. I absolutely get why TLOU Part II feels nihilistic. I felt empty at the end of the game. I felt sad, but Ellie´s journey made sense. It felt real in way I´m not used to when enjoying a video game. I think that´s the catch: We are mostly used to feel entertained and in control, when playing a game. But TLOU Part II reflects for example on the reality of killing NPCs for fun. This game takes the story it tells and the player seriously. TLOU Part II breaks new ground reminding us that every dire act has consequences on every level. We all felt the emotional repercussions of these conseqences through Ellie´s journey and that´s why the end felt nihilistic to many players including me. But after some time I felt hopeful that Ellie will recover and return stronger than before.

[@psychedelicyeti6053]

@@romeobaboi3905 I think some people are giving this game too much credit. I didn't need a game to tell me to feel guilty for NPCs. I think a player can run over people in GTA and also know that it's wrong while doing it. Like in Elder's React when they get the controller to play GTA5. In fact, part 2 did it well when NPCs mourned their loves ones after killing them. Like Writing on Games said, I think people should gave felt something when they killed the dog(s) TO BEGIN with. Did we really need Alice's back story to feel bad about the action of killing her? All I needed to know about Abby was that her dad was the surgeon in the first game to see why she was looking for Joel. When we finally got to see her side, it actually worsened her story because it didn't add anything new that I couldnt figure out on my own, and almost everyone on her end was unlikeable, including her Mad Scientist dad. He didn't get consent from (underage, mind you) Ellie and didn't wait for Joel to wake up from the knockout for at least a conversation with Ellie. What if having that final moment with Ellie, seeing her make her own choice, would have prevented him from going off at the Fireflies? We can just speculate the what if, but it makes me think the doctor's hasty actions did him in, just as Joel's action of killing the doctor did Joel in. The writing didn't make things clear clear the players that Joel and Tommy, like the other members in Jackson, were trying to change their hardened ways. So "the scene" felt off character to a lot of people when it was actually in character, we just never got to see it formulate. I just think this game had potential and was unfinished. That's why I can't enjoy it as others can. But it's always interesting seeing other people's interpretation of it that differ from mine. Someone found a lot of Abrahamic themes in the game that made it meaningful to him. Another video talked about how they were able to find the personal goal, life goal, and professional goal of Ellie in the first game, while she only had one goal in the second game, making her character (as well as the others in Part 2) very one dimensional. Anyway, thanks for the response.

[@omarquintanilla696]

I feel that Abby's quest took the biggest and more bad assery during her journey because she not only was defecting, but was tasked with brutality nearly every turn!! The ending was very interesting in that I expected a follow up of sorts to Abby and lev, I was saddened, but also feeling it when Ellie had to cut Abby down and she looked a mere shell of the rugged and tough gal that she was throughout the game. I thought the game was perfect!!

[@psychedelicyeti6053]

Ellie left her group for the worse while Abby left for the better. Ellie from Jackson, whose members left notes and letters saying their mission is to regain their humanity and make the world better by helping others and clearing infected. While Abby's group is fighting over territory. Ellie left on a selfish quest for revenge while Abby left start a better life with others.

[@adriancojo6671]

Not really... Ellie left the guitar behind because she didn t had enough fingers to be become a rockstar

[@ZombieKiller2019]

I guess I always knew a lot of this but I’ve never been able to put it in words. Well done! A very insightful view of the story and characters.

[@ARGENTINA908]

Loved this video and the comments, im realizing that there is still people that were able to comprehend the game and the beautiful story behind it. This is the best game i have ever played in my life, and its satisfying reading all this comments

[@ReoHimZ]

after experiencing Abbies storyline, i truly believe Joels behaviour after the firefly lab reflected that of Abby. the two felt bad for their actions and in return did their best to redeem such actions. in Joels case, this turn of behaviour was his downfall and is a primary driving force to his demise. btw amazing video, love the articulation of it all!

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks, FunWithReo! I appreciate it man!

[@MethodSkeptic]

Abby is the only character who gets a TLOU1-style guitar motif, and she ends the game carrying an unconscious child.

[@Kadosknight]

WOW! Your commentary was really well though-out and deep. You've put to words everything I've been thinking about this game, and more!

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you, I appreciate that! 😊🙏

[@midwaygamer-ou3my]

Wow! You did a lot of digging into the layers of this game that's awesome. It's nice to see someone actually looking into the games positive sides rather then just the negatives. This was my favorite game of this year next to doom eternal. But this video is really pushing it up more on my scale for favorites of the year. Excellent analysis and critique for sure. 👍😎

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thanks so much for saying that! In my mind the game has received an absurd amount of hate, mostly due to misunderstandings. I appreciate what The Last of Us Part II is trying to do, and hopefully this interpretation helps others find additional aspects they love about it as well.

[@loganfox4371]

Everyone who has played or watched TLOU 2 NEEDS to watch this video!! It helped me understand so much more to the story. Great work!!

[@TLOUStrategist]

Thank you kindly, Logan! I appreciate it! 😊👍

[@ThisIsSpartttaaa]

I've watched dozens of TLOU2 videos and this one by far got way deeper into the meaning of the game than any of them did. Great work man!