'The Last of Us' Explains Joel's Choices With His Traumatic Past

The Last of Us is one of the most acclaimed video games of all time, with both critical and commercial success. It's a unique title that tells an emotionally devastating story about a post-apocalyptic world where a virus has nearly wiped out humanity. The game follows the journey of Joel, a survivor struggling to survive in a world filled with danger and despair. 

One of the most compelling elements of The Last of Us is exploring the complexities of Joel's character. His decisions are driven by his traumatic past and the events that shaped his life. We see a man who is constantly struggling to balance his own needs with the needs of those he cares about.

Joel's Traumatic Past

Joel's traumatic past consists of heartbreaking experiences of grief and loss. We learn that he had a daughter, Sarah, who died during the early years of the outbreak. This experience shaped Joel's character and his outlook on life, as he's determined to do anything to protect those he loves. We also learn of his traumatic relationship with his brother, Tommy, and how these past events influenced his later decisions.

Joel's Choices

Joel's choices in The Last of Us often revolve around prioritizing his own needs over others. This is most evident when he chooses to take drastic measures to protect Ellie, the young girl he's tasked to protect. Despite the risks, he's willing to do whatever it takes to protect her. This complex moral dilemma is explored in depth and further highlights the consequences of trauma on decision-making. 

The Last of Us' Impact

The Last of Us not only explores Joel's story but also provides players with an opportunity to think about their own choices. It challenges players to consider the consequences of their decisions and think about the impact their decisions will have on others. The game also provides an opportunity to reflect on the impact of trauma on one's own decision-making process. 

In conclusion, The Last of Us is an emotionally powerful story that provides an exploration of Joel's traumatic past and how it shaped his choices. Through his story, we are challenged to think about our own decisions and how trauma can influence our judgement. Joel's story is a powerful reminder of the impact of trauma on decision-making and how it can shape our lives.