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40 Facts About The Last Of Us

Nita Horner

Written by Nita Horner

Published: 02 Jul 2024

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Source: Theshortcut.com

Are you ready to delve into the gripping world of "The Last of Us"? This post-apocalyptic saga has captured hearts with its intense storyline, complex characters, and hauntingly beautiful settings. From its inception as a groundbreaking video game to its adaptation into a critically acclaimed TV series, "The Last of Us" offers a rich tapestry of survival, love, and the lengths to which humanity will go to preserve both. In this article, we'll uncover 40 fascinating facts about the series that even die-hard fans might not know. From behind-the-scenes secrets to intriguing details about its creation, these insights will deepen your appreciation for this iconic franchise. Whether you're a seasoned survivor or new to the journey, prepare to be amazed by the world of "The Last of Us."

Table of Contents
01The Origins of The Last of Us
02Characters and Storyline
03Gameplay Mechanics
04Critical Reception and Awards
05The Last of Us: Left Behind
06The Last of Us Part II
07The Last of Us in Other Media
08Fun Facts and Easter Eggs
09A Final Look at The Last of Us

The Origins of The Last of Us

"The Last of Us" is a critically acclaimed action-adventure game developed by Naughty Dog. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about its origins.

  1. Naughty Dog: The game was developed by Naughty Dog, the same studio behind the "Uncharted" series.
  2. Release Date: It was released on June 14, 2013, for the PlayStation 3.
  3. Inspiration: The game drew inspiration from the BBC documentary "Planet Earth," particularly the segment on the Cordyceps fungus.
  4. Initial Concept: Originally, the game was conceived as a Jak and Daxter reboot before evolving into its own unique story.
  5. Development Time: It took nearly four years to develop, starting in 2009.

Characters and Storyline

The characters and storyline are the heart of "The Last of Us." Here are some intriguing details about them.

  1. Joel and Ellie: The main characters, Joel and Ellie, were voiced by Troy Baker and Ashley Johnson, respectively.
  2. Character Design: Ellie's appearance was initially modeled after actress Ellen Page, but later redesigned to avoid likeness issues.
  3. Emotional Depth: The game is known for its emotional depth, with themes of survival, loss, and hope.
  4. Dynamic Relationship: Joel and Ellie's relationship evolves from strangers to a father-daughter bond throughout the game.
  5. Supporting Characters: Other notable characters include Tess, Marlene, and Bill, each adding depth to the story.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay mechanics of "The Last of Us" set it apart from other action-adventure games. Let's explore some key aspects.

  1. Stealth and Combat: The game combines stealth and combat, allowing players to choose their approach.
  2. Crafting System: Players can craft weapons and health kits using materials found in the environment.
  3. AI Behavior: The AI behavior of enemies and allies is highly advanced, making the game more challenging.
  4. Resource Management: Limited resources force players to make strategic decisions.
  5. Environmental Interaction: Players can interact with the environment to solve puzzles and progress through the game.

Critical Reception and Awards

"The Last of Us" received widespread acclaim and numerous awards. Here are some highlights.

  1. Critical Acclaim: It received a Metacritic score of 95/100, indicating universal acclaim.
  2. Game of the Year: It won over 200 Game of the Year awards from various publications.
  3. BAFTA Awards: The game won five BAFTA awards, including Best Game and Best Story.
  4. Sales Milestone: By 2018, it had sold over 17 million copies worldwide.
  5. Cultural Impact: The game has been praised for its storytelling and has influenced other games and media.

The Last of Us: Left Behind

"Left Behind" is a downloadable expansion that adds more depth to the main story. Here are some facts about it.

  1. Release Date: "Left Behind" was released on February 14, 2014.
  2. Ellie's Backstory: The expansion focuses on Ellie's backstory and her relationship with her friend Riley.
  3. New Gameplay Mechanics: It introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as using water guns in a playful fight.
  4. Critical Reception: "Left Behind" received critical acclaim, with many praising its emotional storytelling.
  5. Standalone Release: It was later released as a standalone game in 2015.

The Last of Us Part II

The sequel, "The Last of Us Part II," continues the story of Joel and Ellie. Let's look at some key facts about it.

  1. Release Date: It was released on June 19, 2020, for the PlayStation 4.
  2. New Characters: Introduced new characters like Abby, Dina, and Jesse.
  3. Controversial Storyline: The game's storyline sparked controversy and divided fans.
  4. Improved Graphics: It featured improved graphics and more realistic character animations.
  5. Awards and Recognition: It won several awards, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2020.

The Last of Us in Other Media

The game's popularity has led to adaptations in other media. Here are some interesting facts.

  1. Comic Series: A comic series titled "The Last of Us: American Dreams" was released in 2013.
  2. TV Adaptation: HBO is developing a TV series adaptation of the game.
  3. Voice Actors: Troy Baker and Ashley Johnson, who voiced Joel and Ellie, have expressed interest in appearing in the TV series.
  4. Fan Films: Several fan films and short films inspired by the game have been created.
  5. Merchandise: The game has inspired a range of merchandise, including action figures, clothing, and posters.

Fun Facts and Easter Eggs

"The Last of Us" is filled with fun facts and Easter eggs that fans love to uncover. Here are a few.

  1. Giraffe Scene: The giraffe scene is one of the most iconic moments in the game, symbolizing hope and beauty in a bleak world.
  2. Hidden Messages: There are hidden messages and notes throughout the game that add depth to the story.
  3. Naughty Dog References: The game contains references to other Naughty Dog games, such as "Uncharted."
  4. Ellie's Jokes: Ellie tells jokes from a joke book, providing moments of levity in the otherwise tense game.
  5. Alternate Endings: The developers considered multiple endings before settling on the final one.

A Final Look at The Last of Us

We've journeyed through the gritty, post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us, uncovering 40 fascinating facts that highlight its depth, innovation, and impact. From its groundbreaking narrative to its meticulous attention to detail, this game has set a new standard for storytelling and design in video games. Fans and newcomers alike can appreciate the dedication of Naughty Dog in creating a universe that's not only immersive but also emotionally resonant. As we've seen, the influence of The Last of Us extends beyond gaming, inspiring discussions about human nature, survival, and the complexities of moral choices in desperate times. Whether you're revisiting the game or experiencing its harrowing journey for the first time, these insights offer a richer understanding of its enduring legacy.

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