The Top 8 Moments in The Last of Us

The Last of Us was a bittersweet swan song for the 7th generation of gaming consoles. It stands as a testament to the advancements that video game storytelling experienced during this generation. Plus, it’s simply an iconic game overall.

Exactly what made this game so special back in 2013, though? What factors have made The Last of Us be recognized universally as a titan of gaming? This answer lies largely in the characters and story.

Since The Last of Us Part II is set to release on June 19, now is the perfect time to reflect on some of the moments that gave the original game such an impact on fans.

The prologue

The Last of Us opens on a quiet night on the protagonist’s birthday. The excellent writing and acting displayed in this scene quickly cements the bond between Joel and his daughter, Sarah. This warm moment abruptly ends when Sarah is woken by a desperate phone call from her uncle.

The hectic scene that follows has always been notorious for unexpectedly shattering the hearts of players everywhere. In a game where death is openly expected, The Last of Us manages to give death the tragic weight that it deserves.

Tess’s final scene

While Joel’s partner Tess wasn’t the most endearing or intriguing character, her presence was never unwelcome. She was often incredibly useful in combat, as well as in cutscenes. The way that she interacts with Joel also provides a welcome warmth following one of the most infamous death scenes in recent memory.

Naturally, this makes the revelation that she has been infected much worse. Once again, Naughty Dog took an event that was incredibly predictable and managed to make it enthralling to many. Once the character has taken her bow, her absence can be felt immediately, too.