As controversial as The Last of Us Part 2 was, there’s no denying that the franchise’s no-holds barred approach to hard-hitting themes is unlike any other. Naughty Dog’s ability to masterfully weave narratives with intricate, emotional themes has granted them much-deserved acclaim.
While the first game explored themes of love and sacrifice, The Last of Us Part 2 delved into the murky waters of vengeance, forcing players to confront the human cost of seeking retribution. With The Last of Us Part 3 hinted at in the Grounded 2.0 documentary, which themes could we see Naughty Dog explore in what could be the very last game of the franchise?
Revenge Comes Around In The Last Of Us World
The potential story directions for The Last of Us Part 3 are brimming with possibilities. One avenue could see Ellie grappling with the consequences of her actions, specifically the cycle of violence she inadvertently perpetuated.
As players witnessed in Part 2, Ellie’s pursuit of revenge leaves a devastating trail of destruction, mirroring, in some ways, Joel’s fateful decision at the conclusion of the first game when he chooses to save her. Revenge could yet again be a persisting theme in the third game, with members of the Wolves and Seraphites looking to hunt Ellie.
This would be a natural consequence of the events of Part 2, and a fitting theme for the vicious world of The Last of Us. If Naughty Dog went this route, Ellie would be in for a rollercoaster as both factions would be out to get her. It could possibly be the bloodiest, most visceral The Last of Us game of them all, and every character close to Ellie would be in danger.
A Calmer, Kinder Approach
Alternatively, Naughty Dog could go a more compassionate route by exploring Ellie’s struggle to find peace and acceptance amidst the ghosts of her past. It would be a natural continuation of the narrative as well, resonating with players who connected with the remorseful Joel.
This thematic thread could involve Ellie seeking forgiveness, perhaps from the remnants of her strained relationship with Dina, or attempting to make amends for her actions, possibly by aiding a new community struggling to survive in the harsh post-apocalyptic world.
This mirrors Abby’s journey in Part 2, where she hesitantly learns to trust and forgive former enemies. Both Abby and Ellie, having witnessed loved ones die in the cycle of violence, may be forced to rely on each other for survival.
Forgiveness between them might not be achievable, but learning to forgive themselves for their actions and the lives lost in their quests for revenge could be a crucial step towards a fragile peace.
A Character Renaissance For Ellie?
The complex theme of identity is also another compelling thread Naughty Dog could follow for Part 3. Throughout the series, players have witnessed three facets of Ellie’s personality as she’s grown: the hopeful young girl in the Left Behind prequel to the first game, the resourceful survivor in The Last of Us, and the vengeful destroyer (see: Kratos) in Part 2.
This intricate character arc, while beautifully crafted, also presents a unique opportunity for Part 3’s story. We could see Ellie confront her past actions and choices, prompting her to question who she has become.
This could manifest as a psychological exploration where Ellie encounters new characters that embody her past selves, forcing her to acknowledge and accept the complexities that make her who she is. Ellie would actively seek to rediscover the spark of the young girl she once was, or perhaps even define a new identity that incorporates her harsh realities while retaining her humanity.
This journey of self-acceptance would be a fitting culmination of Ellie’s experiences, acknowledging both the darkness and the light within her, paving the way for a more nuanced and complete version of herself.
Each of these potential thematic directions builds upon the existing narrative foundation of The Last of Us, offering a springboard for meaningful character development and exploration for a Part 3.
Whether it’s finding acceptance, rediscovering her identity, or facing the consequences to her actions, the journey ahead for Ellie is shaping up to be yet another tear-jerker, potentially offering a satisfying conclusion not just for her character, but for the series as a whole.
