Welcome to ‘The Last of Us II: Story and Character Guide’—your ultimate companion to one of the most emotionally charged and critically acclaimed games of the decade. Dive deep into an unforgettable narrative that explores the intricacies of human relationships and the dark motives driving each character. In this guide, you’ll get a comprehensive understanding of the gripping main story, detailed profiles of key characters and their complex relationships, insightful explorations of character motivations, ways to unlock hidden story content, and tips for an immersive gameplay experience. Prepare yourself to uncover every secret and savor every moment in The Last of Us II!

Understanding the Main Story#

The Last of Us II takes place five years after the first game. You play as Ellie, who is now 19 years old and living in Jackson, Wyoming. The central theme is about the lasting impact of violence and how it affects Ellie and the people around her. Understanding the story can help you appreciate the emotional depth and complexities of the characters. Here’s a rundown to guide you through the game’s main story.

Setting the Scene#

You start in Jackson, a thriving community led by Joel and his brother Tommy. This is where Ellie has found a semblance of peace and normalcy. But this peace doesn’t last. The world outside is still crawling with dangers like Infected and hostile survivor groups.

The Inciting Incident#

The story kicks off when a new character, Abby, and her group from the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), also known as the Wolves, arrive in Jackson. Abby has a personal vendetta against Joel for his actions at the end of the first game. After an intense confrontation, Abby kills Joel. This event sets Ellie on a path of vengeance.

Ellie’s Journey#

Fueled by anger and grief, Ellie, accompanied by her friend Dina, leaves the safety of Jackson to hunt down Abby and the WLF in Seattle. Ellie’s journey is brutal and harrowing. Along the way, she faces numerous challenges, including combat encounters with both the Wolves and another faction called the Seraphites (or “Scars”), as well as navigating through hordes of Infected.

Themes of Revenge and Loss#

Throughout the game, you’ll see Ellie transform. Her desire for revenge starts to consume her, impacting her relationships and her sanity. The story doesn’t shy away from showing how revenge can be a vicious cycle, affecting everyone involved.

Abby’s Perspective#

Halfway through the game, you switch perspectives to play as Abby. This part of the game is crucial for understanding the narrative’s complexity. Abby’s journey shows the other side of the conflict. You learn about her background, motivations, and the people she cares about. By playing as Abby, it becomes clear that she’s more than just the villain of Ellie’s story.

Converging Paths#

Eventually, Ellie and Abby’s paths cross again. These moments are tense and emotionally charged. The game’s climax is a series of battles that push both characters to their limits. They’re forced to confront the heavy toll of their actions and the endless cycle of violence.

Final Moments#

In the end, Ellie has the chance to kill Abby but decides to let her go. This decision is a pivotal moment for Ellie, signifying her breaking free from the cycle of revenge. Ellie returns to Jackson, but she’s forever changed by her journey. Some relationships are broken, and she has to deal with the emotional and physical scars left behind.

Conclusion#

The Last of Us II provides a deep and thought-provoking story. By exploring both Ellie and Abby’s sides, the game shows that there’s no simple good or evil. Each character has their own story, reasons, and struggles. This narrative complexity is at the heart of what makes the game so compelling and memorable.

Understanding these story elements will enhance your experience and help you connect better with the characters and their journeys. Happy gaming!

Key Characters and Relationships#

The Last of Us II is packed with complex characters and deep relationships. Understanding these characters and their dynamics is crucial to appreciating the story. Here’s a breakdown of the main players and their connections.

Ellie#

Ellie is the protagonist driving the story forward. She’s older and hardened by the events that occurred in the first game. Her journey in this game is fueled by a desire for revenge, making her more fierce and determined than ever.

• Relationship with Joel: Joel is like a father to Ellie. He saved her life many times and in their shared history, he made a controversial decision to keep her alive that has far-reaching implications. His past actions heavily influence Ellie’s motivations and character development in the game.
• Relationship with Dina: Dina is Ellie’s love interest and often serves as her anchor. Dina’s supportive nature and their budding romance add depth to Ellie’s character and showcase a softer side of her.

Joel#

Joel’s role, while slightly limited compared to the first game, is still impactful. His decisions and past actions, particularly those in the first game, have lasting effects on Ellie and the overall narrative.

• Relationship with Tommy: Joel’s brother, Tommy, shares a complicated history with him. Tommy is loyal and cares deeply for Joel but struggles with the moral ambiguity of Joel’s actions, creating tension between them.
• Relationship with Ellie: As mentioned, Joel is Ellie’s guardian and father figure. Their bond is strong and filled with love, though it is tested by past secrets and the harsh realities of their world.

Dina#

Dina is more than just a love interest for Ellie; she’s a resilient and dynamic character in her own right. She brings hope, optimism, and a sense of normalcy to Ellie’s otherwise tumultuous life.

• Relationship with Ellie: Their relationship starts as a close friendship and blossoms into a romance. Dina is a source of emotional support for Ellie, often grounding her when she’s driven by anger and vengeance.
• Relationship with Jesse: Dina’s ex-boyfriend and a close friend to both her and Ellie. Their history creates a triangle of sorts, but their friendship remains strong.

Abby#

Abby is introduced as a new protagonist and has one of the most complex character arcs in the game. She’s driven by her own need for vengeance but also shows a capacity for growth and empathy.

• Relationship with Owen: Owen is Abby’s love interest. Their relationship is strained by the harsh realities of their world and Abby’s obsessive quest for revenge. Owen seeks a more peaceful existence, often challenging Abby’s worldview.
• Relationship with Lev and Yara: These siblings become vital to Abby’s story. Helping and protecting them allows Abby to find some redemption and humanity amidst her own darkness.

Supporting Characters#

• Tommy: Joel’s brother who plays a significant role in Ellie’s quest. His own journey mirrors and contrasts with Ellie’s, showing the darker paths that grief and vengeance can lead one down.
• Jesse: A close friend to both Ellie and Dina. Jesse’s bravery and loyalty are unwavering, and he often finds himself in the middle of Ellie and Dina’s relationship.
• Lev and Yara: Introduced through Abby’s storyline, these siblings bring in new perspectives on the themes of survival and family. Lev’s bravery and Yara’s protective nature make them integral to Abby’s redemption arc.

Understanding these characters and their relationships is essential for grasping the emotional and narrative depth of The Last of Us II. Each character’s motivations and connections drive the story forward, making every interaction meaningful and every decision impactful.

Exploring Character Motivations#

The Last of Us II brings a lot of emotions and complex characters to the table. To understand the story fully, it’s important to get into the heads of the main characters and see what drives them. Let’s break down the key motivations behind Ellie, Joel, and Abby.

Ellie#

Ellie’s journey in The Last of Us II is intense and full of anger. After witnessing the brutal murder of Joel, who was like a father to her, Ellie is consumed by a burning need for revenge. Her love for Joel and the trauma of his loss push her to hunt down those responsible, no matter the cost. But as she progresses, Ellie starts to question whether the path of vengeance is worth the price she’s paying.

Key Points#

• Love for Joel: A father figure whose loss shakes her world.
• Thirst for Revenge: The main driver of her journey.
• Moral Dilemma: She struggles with the toll her actions take on herself and others.

Joel#

Joel’s actions in the first game come back to haunt him in The Last of Us II. At the end of the first game, Joel selfishly decides to save Ellie from the Fireflies, costing them a chance to find a cure for the infection. This choice is rooted in his deep love for Ellie, whom he sees as a daughter. His protective instinct is powerful, but it sets off a chain of events leading to his violent death at the hands of Abby.

Key Points#

• Paternal Love: Sees Ellie as a daughter.
• Selfish Decisions: Saves Ellie regardless of the bigger picture.
• Consequences: His past choices lead to devastating outcomes.

Abby#

Abby’s motivations are revealed gradually, showing a different perspective on the events of the first game. She’s driven by her own desire for revenge against Joel, who killed her father, a Firefly surgeon, to save Ellie. Her journey is one of survival, guilt, and trying to find a new purpose after avenging her father’s death. Abby’s story challenges players to see the other side of the conflict and question their own sense of justice.

Key Points#

• Drive for Revenge: Aims to avenge her father’s death.
• Survival and Guilt: Struggles with the morality of her actions.
• Seeking Purpose: Tries to find meaning beyond vengeance.

Conclusion#

In The Last of Us II, every character’s actions are fueled by powerful emotions and deep-rooted motivations. Whether it’s love, revenge, or survival, understanding these motivations helps players connect with the characters and navigate their complex world. So, as you play, keep these driving forces in mind to fully appreciate the depth of the story.

Unlocking Story Content#

The Last of Us Part II is a game brimming with narrative depth and emotional storytelling. Unlocking all of the story content ensures you get the full experience that Naughty Dog has meticulously crafted. Here’s how to make sure you don’t miss a single beat of Ellie and Abby’s journey.

Explore Every Nook and Cranny#

The world of The Last of Us Part II is dense, filled with hidden areas, notes, artifacts, and conversations that flesh out the storyline. Taking your time to explore each area thoroughly is key. Look in drawers, under beds, and on top of shelves. Many times, you’ll find valuable items like ammo and health kits, but more importantly, you’ll uncover pieces of the story that you’d otherwise miss.

Important Tips#

• Check Your Surroundings: If you enter a room, don’t just look for the immediate objectives. Scan all the corners and interact with all highlighted objects.
• Read Every Note: The game is littered with notes from various survivors. These aren’t just collectibles—they tell stories.
• Listen to Conversations: Sometimes, Ellie and her companions will have optional conversations. These are often triggered by being in certain locations or picking up specific items.

Complete All Optional Conversations#

Speaking of conversations, there are numerous optional dialogues throughout the game. These conversations deepen your understanding of the characters and the world they live in. To trigger these, pay attention when a dialogue prompt appears. Ellie will often talk to Dina, Jesse, or Joel about their surroundings, their past, or their feelings.

How to Trigger Optional Conversations#

• Sticking Close to Allies: When exploring, stay near your companions. They can trigger a conversation when you approach specific locations or objects.
• Idle and Listen: Sometimes just standing idle near an item of interest will start a conversation. Be patient and listen.

Finding and Playing Guitar Segments#

One of the game’s charming features is Ellie’s guitar playing. Scattered throughout the game are moments where Ellie can strum a tune, often triggering larger story moments or memories.

Steps to Ensure You Don’t Miss These#

• Look for Guitar Icons: Keep an eye out for guitar icons that appear when you approach specific objects or areas.
• Approach Guitars: Interact with guitars whenever you come across them; they often prompt significant memories or conversations.

Accessing Flashbacks#

Throughout the game, you’ll experience flashbacks that provide rich backstory for both Ellie and Abby. Some flashbacks are part of the main storyline, but others require you to explore thoroughly or complete certain tasks.

Ensuring You See All Flashbacks#

• Inspect Key Locations: In important story locations such as Ellie’s and Joel’s house, make sure to pick up and inspect all key items.
• Follow Narrative Cues: Pay attention to the narrative cues and hints given by the characters or through environmental storytelling.

Completing Side Quests#

While The Last of Us Part II primarily focuses on its main narrative, there are optional side quests that add depth to the story. These side quests often involve helping other survivors, finding specific items, or exploring hidden areas.

Making the Most of Side Quests#

• Investigate Thoroughly: When you hear non-main story discussions or pleas for help, make it a priority to check them out.
• Explore Hidden Areas: Some side quests are hidden away and require you to take detours from your main path.

Summary#

Unlocking the full story content in The Last of Us Part II involves being thorough in your exploration, engaging in optional conversations, playing guitar segments, accessing flashbacks, and completing side quests. Being attentive and curious will not only enrich your understanding of the characters and world but also maximize the emotional impact of the game’s narrative. Happy exploring!

Tips for Immersive Gameplay#

Getting lost in the world of The Last of Us II is easy, but if you want to elevate your experience, these tips will help you dive deeper into the game and really feel like you’re a part of it. Here’s how to get the most out of Ellie’s journey.

1. Embrace Stealth#

In The Last of Us II, stealth isn’t just an option – it’s often the best strategy. Instead of charging headfirst, use the environment to your advantage. Crouch in tall grass, hide behind obstacles, and move silently. Listen mode can help track enemy movements and plan your attacks. Stay patient and wait for the perfect moment to strike or sneak past foes.

2. Explore Every Nook and Cranny#

Naughty Dog has packed a lot of detail into the world. Taking the time to explore buildings, alleyways, and hidden paths can reward you with valuable supplies, collectibles, and story insights. Read notes and look closely at the environment – these small touches add depth to the narrative and make you feel more connected to the world and its characters.

3. Use Headphones#

The sound design in The Last of Us II is phenomenal. Using a good pair of headphones can help you pick up on subtle audio cues, like enemy footsteps, distant gunfire, or the eerie sounds of infected lurking nearby. Plus, it just makes the whole experience more immersive and intense.

4. Don’t Rush#

Take your time. Rushing through The Last of Us II means you’ll miss out on much of what makes it special. Soak in the detailed environments, listen to character conversations, and allow yourself to be drawn into the story. The slower pace not only enhances immersion but also ensures that you won’t overlook important items or narrative pieces.

5. Customize Your Controls#

Your gaming experience can be significantly improved by tweaking control settings to suit your playstyle. The Last of Us II offers lots of options to customize sensitivity, aim assist, and button layouts. Find what works best for you to make your gameplay smoother and more intuitive.

6. Alternate between Play Styles#

While stealth is important, combat sequences are inevitable. Alternating between a stealthy approach and an all-out offensive can keep gameplay fresh and exciting. Utilize a mix of melee weapons, firearms, and throwable items. Experimenting with different tactics can help you find what works best in various scenarios.

7. Take Breaks#

The story can be emotionally heavy, and long sessions can feel exhausting. Taking regular breaks helps avoid burnout and gives you time to process the intense narrative. Step away from the screen periodically to keep your mind clear and your emotions in check.

8. Engage with Collectibles#

The game’s world is rich with lore that adds layers to the story. Collecting artifacts, journal entries, and trading cards not only gives completionist players more content but also provides valuable backstory that enhances the main narrative. It’s worth going out of your way to find these items.

9. Experiment with the Photo Mode#

Capture the stunning visuals of The Last of Us II with the built-in photo mode. Take time to appreciate the artwork, share your favorite moments, and maybe even discover new details in the meticulously crafted environments.

10. Adjust Difficulty Settings#

There’s no shame in adjusting the difficulty to suit your comfort level. If the game’s pace feels too slow or too challenging, tweaking the settings can make it more enjoyable. Remember, the goal is to immerse yourself in the story, not to get stuck on frustrating encounters.

By following these tips, you can enhance your The Last of Us II experience, making it more engaging and immersive. Whether you’re sneaking through infected areas or exploring the haunting beauty of a post-apocalyptic world, these strategies will help you make the most of your journey.