Joel Actor from ‘The Last of Us’ Shares Thoughts on the Game’s Impact

Troy Baker, known for his role as Joel in the acclaimed game The Last of Us, recently shared his thoughts on the game’s profound legacy. He believes the game revolutionized storytelling in video games to such an extent that it has set a benchmark for others. It’s undeniable that The Last of Us has become synonymous with narrative-driven gaming, crafting stories deeply ingrained with moral dilemmas, and Baker feels this impact is widely recognized among the gaming community.

The narrative of The Last of Us has sparked numerous discussions over the years, largely triggered by its provocative ending. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a zombie outbreak, the storyline follows Joel and Ellie, where Ellie’s immunity to the infection adds a unique twist. As they journey through this ravaged world, their bond strengthens to resemble that of a parent and child, yet their survival often forces them into morally grey areas. These complex choices lead to controversial outcomes, and it’s this intricate storytelling that has kept players and critics talking long after finishing the game.

In an insightful conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Troy Baker highlighted how The Last of Us became synonymous with outstanding storytelling in the gaming sphere. He compared its influence to household names like refrigerators or Kleenex, emphasizing how it has become a pivotal reference point for quality narratives in gaming.

Further into the discussion, Matt Mercer, a well-known voice actor in titles such as Persona 5 and Yakuza: Like a Dragon, shared his perspective on The Last of Us’ impact. He pointed out that the game did more than just capture audiences; it showed the gaming industry the potential of video games as a narrative medium.

The sequel, The Last of Us Part 2, pushed these boundaries even further. Known for its brutal exploration of the characters’ questionable morals, it continued to push the narrative envelope. While games with similar themes existed before, The Last of Us stands out in discussions about raw storytelling within the gaming landscape.