As a seasoned gamer who has been through numerous highs and lows in the gaming world, I can confidently say that The Last of Us series holds a special place in my heart. The original game, released in 2013, was a masterpiece that redefined storytelling in video games. However, its sequel, The Last of Us Part II, has been a divisive one, to say the least.
2013’s The Last of Us is frequently praised as one of the best video games ever made, and for good reason. By reimagining the overused concept of zombies as mushroom-like creatures that click instead of growl, it told a poignant story about love, loss, and survival. At its heart were two compelling characters, and there were genuinely scary scenes that still send shivers down the spine.
If only The Last of Us Part II from 2020 had been as well-received by gamers. Although Naughty Dog undeniably took the sequel to greater heights, leaks, contentious deaths, and allegations of forcing a politically correct game upon players led to some harsh review-bombing.
Even four years later, The Last of Us Part II remains one of the most polarising games of all time.
The Last of Us Season 2 isn’t here to ‘fix’ the game
Specifically, there was a great deal of hostility directed towards Abby Anderson’s character. In the latter sections of Part II, the game switches to controlling Abby, which some found challenging since she served as the main antagonist in the first half. This has led others to argue that they were compelled to play as the ‘villain.’ However, this alternate perspective was also lauded by many, who pointed out that Joel Miller’s character isn’t as heroic as he’s often portrayed.
In the year 2023, when The Last of Us Season 1 was first released, it garnered acclaim for its accurate portrayal of the original content while still introducing fresh elements. One significant change was setting most of the narrative in the year 2023 rather than 2033. This alteration helped explain Ellie’s immunity, developed the Bill and Frank storyline, and introduced the character of Kathleen, portrayed by Melanie Lynskey.
On Reddit, u/HolderofFuture pointed out that Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann aren’t present to address your issues with Part II. Instead, they are tasked with taking the same story, concepts, and themes from the game and adapting them for a TV series, which is what adaptation is all about.
They mention that Season 2 offers an opportunity to share the experience we all had with Part II to individuals who don’t play video games. This viewpoint was echoed, with someone else stating, “They don’t need to correct or enhance a flawless game,” and a third party summing up, “They don’t need to make any changes. It is what it is; either accept it or move on. I thought the critics would have quieted down by now 😂😂.”
Despite some viewers finding the pace of Part II challenging, this was an intentional decision. However, we anticipate that more aspects will be fleshed out in future episodes, potentially stretching Part II across three seasons, thereby extending The Last of Us to four seasons. Furthermore, the intriguing casting of Catherine O’Hara from Home Alone hints at the introduction of a new character.
Haters gonna hate
It appears that some people had objections to the portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes in Part II, particularly with characters like Lev and Ellie herself. However, actress Bella Ramsey, who plays Ellie, has essentially told critics to accept it, and with Isabela Merced cast as love interest Dina for Season 2, the show seems committed to staying true to Ellie’s storyline.
It’s surprising that a TV series, which often deals with issues, has faced criticism itself, with specific focus on the character portrayed by Ramsey drawing particular scrutiny. Even as Season 2 production photos have surfaced, there’s been a persistent group vocalizing their disapproval of her appearance, and some even suggesting she should be replaced for future episodes.
As a lifelong gamer who has spent countless hours immersed in various virtual worlds, I can empathize with the passion and attachment that some gamers have towards the stories of their beloved games, particularly The Last of Us Part II. However, I must say that it’s important to remember that these games are just a small part of the vast world we live in.
As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but feel excited about the potential of The Last of Us Season 2, following the impressive adaptation of Season 1. Mazin and his team have shown they can bring the game’s world to life with stunning accuracy, and I have no doubt they will push the boundaries even further than The Last of Us Part II. Of course, it’s always your choice whether to tune in – but if you’re a fan like me, it’s hard to resist!
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2024-07-31 14:12