Ellie and Abby: A Reflection on Choosing Not to Kill

In the post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us Part II, players navigate the morally gray landscape through the eyes of two strong and conflicted characters: Ellie and Abby. The game presents us with complex choices and challenges our notions of right and wrong, leading us into a reflection on the value of choosing not to kill.

Throughout the game, we witness the brutal realities Ellie and Abby face. Both are driven by a desire for revenge, consumed by the need to avenge the loss of loved ones. Initially, their paths intersect with violence, vengeance, and death. However, as the story unfolds, an unexpected twist challenges players to reevaluate their own morals and question the potentially disastrous consequences of killing.

As players control Ellie, we see her transformation from a young and carefree girl to a hardened survivor. She faces numerous traumatic events that shape her perspective on the world. Yet, even in the face of immense pain and suffering, Ellie has moments where she confronts the consequences of her actions. These moments, accompanied by her growing humanity and compassion, reveal a desire for redemption and a reluctance to kill indiscriminately.

Likewise, Abby initially seeks revenge against Ellie for a past transgression. However, as we play through her story, we encounter her own moral struggle. Abby’s encounters with Lev, a young boy who challenges her preconceived notions, serve as a catalyst for change. Through their journey together, Abby begins to question the cycle of violence she has perpetuated. This reflection ultimately leads her to make a monumental decision and show mercy.

As players, we are presented with the choice of whether to continue these cycles of violence or to break free from them. The game forces us to consider the weight of our own choices, prompting an introspective examination of our moral compass. The characters’ actions, or lack thereof, highlight the capacity for growth, empathy, and forgiveness within us.

By choosing not to kill, Ellie and Abby offer us an alternative path. They show us that vengeance is not the only solution to our struggles. Their choices open up the possibility of healing and reconciliation in a world dominated by destruction and despair. Their reflections challenge us to consider that killing may not always bring the desired closure but perpetuate a vicious cycle of violence.

The Last of Us Part II serves as a reminder that sometimes the hardest decisions to make are the non-violent ones. It prompts us to explore alternative paths, such as empathy, understanding, and forgiveness, as solutions to our conflicts. These virtues, often overlooked in the bleakness of the post-apocalyptic setting, hold incredible power to reshape our world.

In a world that constantly bombards us with messages of revenge and violence, Ellie and Abby’s story stands as a beacon of hope. Their reflection on choosing not to kill encourages us to pause and question our own impulses for revenge. It invites us to seek redemption and healing through compassion and understanding.

Ultimately, The Last of Us Part II challenges us to think beyond the immediate satisfaction of vengeance and consider the long-term implications of our choices. It serves as a potent reminder that in choosing not to kill, we embrace the potential for growth, empathy, and ultimately, a brighter future.