The Haunting Truth: Who Was the First Person Ellie Killed in The Last of Us?
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The grim reality of the post-apocalyptic world in The Last of Us forces characters to make brutal choices, often with devastating consequences. Among the many tragedies, one stands out: Ellie’s first kill was her best friend, Riley Abel. This heart-wrenching event, now canon in both the game and the HBO television adaptation, irrevocably shapes Ellie’s character and sets the stage for her complex journey.
The Significance of Riley’s Death
From Innocence to Trauma
Before the Cordyceps outbreak, Ellie’s life was already challenging. However, the infection propelled her into a world where survival meant making impossible decisions. Riley’s death marks the shattering of Ellie’s innocence. Before Riley, Ellie’s hands were relatively clean. After Riley, Ellie understands the true cost of survival and the depths of despair. This moment is not merely a plot point; it’s a core component of Ellie’s identity.
The Revelation in Left Behind and the TV Show
Left Behind, the DLC expansion for The Last of Us, delves into Ellie and Riley’s relationship, culminating in their fateful encounter with the infected. Both are bitten, leading to the agonizing realization that they will turn. Riley, accepting their fate, suggests they “lose their minds together.” However, Ellie inexplicably doesn’t turn. In a moment of sheer desperation and love, Ellie is forced to kill Riley to prevent her from becoming one of the infected.
The HBO adaptation echoes this event, emphasizing the raw emotion and trauma. The show’s dialogue solidifies that the show follows game canon: Ellie confesses to Joel that she had to kill Riley. This confession serves as a powerful moment of vulnerability, further highlighting the burden Ellie carries. This moment emphasizes how adaptations of video games can not only stay true to canon, but also deliver story that is compelling. The Games Learning Society explores such adaptations and their impact on education and culture, showcasing the importance of understanding narrative in different media, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Impact on Ellie’s Relationship with Joel
Ellie’s revelation to Joel about killing Riley becomes a pivotal moment. It’s a turning point in their relationship, revealing a vulnerability she rarely shows. Sharing this traumatic experience with Joel deepens their bond. Joel, having experienced immense loss himself, begins to understand the depth of Ellie’s suffering and the immense weight she carries.
Ripple Effects: Consequences and Motivations
The Burden of Survival
Riley’s death haunts Ellie throughout The Last of Us and its sequel. The trauma she experiences, stemming from killing her friend, informs her actions and decisions. This experience, along with the discovery of her immunity, makes her question her purpose and the meaning of survival in a world ravaged by infection.
Fueling the Cycle of Violence
The initial trauma sets Ellie down a path of violence. In The Last of Us Part II, Ellie’s pursuit of revenge against Abby is driven, in part, by the unresolved grief and trauma from Riley’s death. The cycle of violence, fueled by loss and the need for retribution, becomes a central theme in the sequel, with Ellie grappling with the moral implications of her actions. Even though she lets Abby live in the end, Abby’s image is a consistent reminder for the cycle of violence Ellie has experienced.
The Fight for Redemption
Ultimately, Ellie’s journey is about seeking redemption and finding a way to break free from the cycle of violence. The memories of Riley, Joel, and the many lives lost along the way haunt her, pushing her to confront her own demons and strive for a future where love and compassion can triumph over hate and revenge. Understanding Ellie’s journey is akin to understanding the moral questions posed by a fictional world. To learn more about such worlds, be sure to check out the research and publications from the Games Learning Society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ellie’s Trauma
1. Was Riley the first person Ellie killed?
Yes, Riley was the first person Ellie killed. This is now canon in both the video game and the HBO television series adaptation.
2. Does Ellie ever talk about killing Riley in the first game?
While the actual act of killing Riley isn’t depicted in the first game’s main narrative, Left Behind explores the events leading up to and including Riley’s death. This is often considered essential story to the first game.
3. How does Riley’s death affect Ellie in The Last of Us Part II?
Riley’s death is a significant source of trauma for Ellie, fueling her desire for revenge and contributing to the cycle of violence that defines much of her journey in the second game.
4. Why did Ellie have to kill Riley?
Ellie killed Riley to prevent her from turning into one of the infected. It was an act of love and mercy, born out of the impossible circumstances they faced.
5. Did Joel know about Ellie killing Riley before The Last of Us Part II?
Yes, Ellie reveals this information to Joel in the first game, sharing a vulnerable moment about her past and the guilt she carries.
6. How does the TV show handle Riley’s death?
The HBO adaptation provides a faithful and emotional portrayal of Riley’s death, staying true to the events of Left Behind.
7. Does Ellie blame herself for Riley’s death?
Yes, Ellie carries a significant amount of guilt and self-blame for Riley’s death, which contributes to her overall trauma and emotional struggles.
8. How does Ellie’s relationship with Riley define her sexuality?
The kiss between Ellie and Riley in Left Behind establishes Ellie’s sexuality, solidifying Riley as a defining character in her life and confirming Ellie’s romantic attraction to women.
9. Is there any indication that Ellie could have saved Riley?
No, there is no indication that Ellie could have saved Riley. The infection is portrayed as inevitable, making Ellie’s decision an act of mercy to prevent Riley from becoming one of the infected.
10. How does Riley’s death contribute to the overall themes of The Last of Us?
Riley’s death contributes to the overarching themes of loss, survival, and the moral complexities of a post-apocalyptic world, highlighting the devastating impact of the outbreak on personal relationships and individual identities.
11. Does Abby know about Riley’s death?
Abby has no direct knowledge of the death of Riley. Abby’s motivations for killing Joel were unrelated. She kills Joel to avenge her father’s death.
12. How many people does Ellie kill in total?
The exact number varies depending on player choices and gameplay style, but Ellie kills a significant number of infected and human enemies throughout both games. In the article provided, it mentions Ellie’s NPCs are forced to kill 40 enemies.
13. Does Ellie ever find peace after Riley’s death?
Ellie’s journey towards finding peace is complex and ongoing. While she experiences moments of hope and connection, the trauma of Riley’s death continues to affect her.
14. How does Ellie’s immunity play into the tragedy of Riley’s death?
Ellie’s immunity makes Riley’s death even more tragic, as Ellie is forced to live with the knowledge that she survived while her friend did not. Her immunity becomes a symbol of both hope and guilt.
15. What is the significance of Ellie finally confessing to killing Riley?
Ellie confessing to killing Riley represents a crucial moment of vulnerability and honesty, allowing her to share the burden of her past with someone she trusts and potentially begin the process of healing.
In conclusion, Riley’s death is not just a tragic event; it’s a defining moment in Ellie’s life, shaping her character, driving her actions, and influencing her relationships. It serves as a stark reminder of the brutality of the world and the heavy cost of survival.