The only character who can make you cry, cheer, rage, and start a 3-hour debate, all in the same scene.
Talk about controversy, she definitely hits the mark.
What is The Work?
The Last of Us is a PlayStation exclusive video game series. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic world whose main character is Joel Miller, a smuggler (or a former one) who lost his daughter Sarah during the initial outbreak of the cordyceps infection. His journey led to his mission of escorting Ellie to the Fireflies' base so they could make the cure that would cure the world by cutting off a part of her brain. He ends up killing all of the fireflies, including their leader, Marlene, and the surgeons (one of them was Abby's father) so he can save Ellie, Which kicks off the events of Part 2 (released in 2020) where Abby kills Joel to avenge her father, which was the main catalyst for Ellie's vengeful path.
What Do people love about her?
- Ashley Johnson’s performance brings authenticity to her, some even think there was no role fit for Ellie other than her.
- She's a badass in almost every way, including scenes like killing the two Rattlers who captured her, torturing Nora (somehow), and killing Jordan too.
- Her deep bond with Joel and interactions with other characters add depth to the narrative, making her story more engaging to some people.
- When she sets her mind to something, whether it’s reaching the Fireflies, avenging Joel, or protecting those she loves, nothing stops her.
- While some people saw that she was somewhat sassy and playful in Part 1, this changed completely in Part 2 where the trauma and loss hardened her, going as far as killing hundreds all by herself.
What do people hate about her
- Some fans disliked how Ellie acted toward Joel in TLOU2, especially after she learned the truth about the Fireflies.
- She resented him for taking away her “purpose” and was distant from him before his death. Some players felt this made her come off as ungrateful.
- Many players thought her revenge quest became excessive and frustrating, as she destroyed everything in her life for it as after finally settling down with Dina, Ellie still leaves to hunt Abby again, losing everything in the process.
- She's somewhat hypocritical as she’s furious at Abby for killing Joel, but she’s killed countless people herself in similar ways. Some fans saw this as a double standard.
- Many players were disappointed that Joel wasn’t the protagonist in TLOU2, and they didn’t find Ellie as enjoyable to play.
- While many love Ellie’s LGBTQ+ representation, some (especially close-minded players) disliked how much focus was put on it. Some even felt her relationship with Dina was “forced” or unnecessary to the main story, though others saw it as organic and meaningful.
- Many loved her in TLOU, but felt she lost too much of her personality in the sequel, as Her witty, fun side is nearly absent in TLOU2, making her less enjoyable to some fans who loved her humor.
- Some players hated how much Joel’s death dictated her every action, wishing she had a more independent arc.
Final Verdict
YES. While Abby is definitely the embodiment of a character being controversial, I could see the same case for Ellie too.