Top 10 Friendships in The Last of Us, Ranked

Summary

Abby and Owen’s friendship is marked by lingering feelings, romantic tension, and devastating loss, highlighting love and sacrifice.
Ellie and Sam form a friendship rooted in innocence, humor, and tragedy, showcasing the impact of trust and survival.
Joel and Tommy’s brotherly bond, impacted by past sins and a vengeful quest, culminates in a heartbreaking conclusion, revealing the toll of loss and guilt.

In both the HBO series and the games, “The Last of Us” is considered one of the most significant works in its medium, seamlessly blending action, adventure, and emotion within a deep, intricate storyline. This narrative unfolds in a world devastated by the cordyceps virus, where the characters must not only battle the infected but also ruthless survivors who have lost their humanity. They find solace and strength in their allies to persevere.

In The Last of Us, it’s not just effective combat or teamwork that makes the strongest duos stand out; instead, it’s the relationships developed under intense situations, where humanity is stretched to its limits and sacrifice becomes an unavoidable reality. These bonds delve into each character’s history, driving them to face their pasts or aid another in overcoming their struggles. As we examine these connections, the narrative peels back layers of identity for each survivor and sheds light on the delicate dreams they hold onto.

10. Abby and Owen

More Than A Romance, They Become One Of The Best Friendships Of The Last Of Us Through Their Complex Relationship

In one of the most touching friendships depicted in The Last of Us, Abby and Owen’s bond stands out as particularly moving. They reminisce about their shared past and intimate experiences, nurturing their friendship through trials in a post-apocalyptic setting. A poignant conversation within the aquarium serves as a testament to their deep connection, where unspoken feelings emerge, hinting at a romance that remains unresolved and lingering.

As a movie enthusiast, I’d rephrase it like this: Unlike Abby, who’s always driven by vengeance, Owen’s optimism provides a sanctuary for her. His influence hints at a peaceful life free from violence, a prospect she yearns for. However, when Abby finds the lifeless bodies of Owen and Mel, it’s a heartbreaking moment that underlines just how integral he was to her past and what remains of her humanity. This tragic event underscores their narrative as one of the series’ most profound reflections on love and its cost.

9. Ellie and Sam

In Spite Of Their Youth, They Form One Of The Best Friendships Of The Last Of Us

Representing innocence amidst a devastated landscape, Ellie and Sam forge an exceptional friendship within “The Last of Us”, bonded by their close age and perspective. Their mutual humor and youthful curiosity create a stark contrast against the violence that surrounds them, intensifying the emotional depth and connection in each scene. In unison, they evoke memories of what childhood might have been if the outbreak had never occurred.

In a touching act, Ellie presents Sam with a toy robot, showing compassion and genuine care for his well-being. Later, under a sky devoid of stars, the two share their worries as they prepare to sleep, providing glimpses into their personal feelings. The events that follow – Sam’s bite, transformation, and demise – deal one of the story’s most chilling impacts, significantly shaping Ellie’s views on trust and survival.

8. Joel and Tess

The Pair Share Chemistry That Makes Them One Of The Best Duos Of The Last Of Us

In the world of “The Last of Us,” Joel and Tess stand out as one of the most compelling friendships. Their chemistry shines whether in gameplay or the series, making them truly unforgettable. The friendship between these two characters is evident from a pivotal moment where Tess gets injured during a fight against Robert. In that instance, Joel’s quick response underscores a bond based on trust and camaraderie. This bond beautifully combines practicality with undeniable affection.

At Tess’s behest, Joel consents to guide Ellie to the Fireflies, showing how deeply he cherishes his companion, despite his initial reservations. The devastating demise of Ellie stirs up Joel to safeguard her, a profound moment that highlights the strength of their bond and establishes the emotional arc for both characters and viewers throughout the ensuing episodes.

7. Henry and Sam

Brothers Create One Of The Best Friendships Of The Last Of Us With A Tragic End

At the heart of a storyline that leaves deep impressions, Henry and Sam form one of the most remarkable friendships in “The Last of Us“. They struggle to survive no matter the cost. The HBO series emphasizes Sam’s vulnerability by portraying him as deaf, giving viewers a glimpse into how adversity strengthens their brotherly bond amidst relentless pursuit. Each interaction highlights their steadfast love and the danger it brings about.

Eager to safeguard his younger sibling, Henry strikes a risky agreement with FEDRA, an action that puts them in danger and ultimately decides their fate. Their sad end reflects Joel’s personal battle over Ellie, emphasizing innocence, family ties, and the harsh realities of survival. The brothers’ tale remains one of the series’ most poignant and indelible moments.

6. Abby and Lev

Despite Their Differences, They Become One Of The Best Duos Of The Last Of Us, Finding Family In One Another

The bond between Abby and Lev, initially formed amidst difficult situations, grows into one of the most outstanding partnerships within the world of “The Last of Us“. Following Yara and Lev’s rescue of Abby from the Seraphites, her own group, the WLF, Abby finds herself at odds with them. However, mutual peril fosters an emotional connection that overcomes allegiances.

Abby’s road to redemption becomes clear when she betrays the WLF to safeguard Lev, a decision that ultimately leads to the demise of their leader, Isaac. Persistently hunted, they stand by each other, finding resilience in their newly formed bond during an unforgiving trek. This relationship, delicately and deeply portrayed, offers one of the game’s most poignant depictions of hope amidst turmoil.

5. Ellie and Riley

The Duo Delivers Some Of The Best Moments Of The Last Of Us

In the heartwarming bond of innocent love, Ellie and Riley journey through a harsh world guided by trust and curiosity, becoming some of the most memorable characters in “The Last of Us“. One of the series’ most touching episodes, and a crucial part of the game, recounts their secret expedition through a deserted mall. This escapade illustrates how moments of joy can momentarily overshadow fear.

Within the gloomy shopping center, they find joy on the rides, explore vacant stores, and for a brief moment, revive their youthful enchantment, showcasing the deep emotional solace they provide one another. This magical interlude is cut short by heartbreak when they’re bitten – Riley perishes, while Ellie is left scarred, bearing grief and a fresh dose of mistrust that alters her future relationships and lays the groundwork for subsequent decisions.

4. Joel and Tommy

Brothers Share A Multilayered Bond That Makes Them One Of The Best Friendship Of The Last Of Us

As a devoted fan of The Last of Us, I can confidently say that Joel and Tommy, who survived the outbreak side by side, are undeniably one of the most remarkable duos in the series. Following our time with the Fireflies and a prolonged separation, we find ourselves reunited in Jackson – a reunion that forces us to face old transgressions and their lasting effect on our bond as brothers. Despite the palpable tension, our unwavering care for each other remains steadfast.

Returning to Jackson again, they work on mending their relationship, but Joel’s murder leaves Tommy heartbroken, propelling him on a vengeful journey that ultimately splits his marriage and depletes his soul. The fraying bond culminates in one of the story’s most poignant endings, burdened by love, remorse, and unresolved pain. Their narrative exposes how grief can swallow the fragile tranquility that survivors struggle to find.

3. Ellie and Dina

Facing Highs And Lows, They Form One Of The Best Duos Of The Last Of Us

In the post-apocalyptic world of “The Last of Us,” Ellie finds solace in Dina, who serves as a haven for her, engulfed by vengeance. This partnership blossoms into one of the most exceptional friendships within the series. Amidst the harshness, Dina’s optimistic demeanor provides Ellie with an opportunity to expose hidden traumas and momentarily regain normalcy, albeit fleetingly. However, their romantic connection is put under great strain, testing its resilience to the utmost limits.

The connection between them develops slowly, transforming from friendship into romance following a New Year’s kiss at a dance. Despite Dina being older than Ellie, she promises to stand by her even on a perilous quest, putting not only her life but also the life of the baby she carries in jeopardy. This steadfast loyalty and its tragic consequences solidify their position as some of the most poignant relationships portrayed in the story.

2. Bill and Frank

An Unlikely Romance That Becomes One Of The Best Friendships Of The Last Of Us

In a standout episode from the show, Bill and Frank uncover affection amidst destruction, creating an unexpected alliance that stands out among the top duos within “The Last of Us”. Initially, their interaction is fraught with tension, as Bill’s territory is fortified, and Frank accidentally wanders onto it. Over time, they grow to tolerate each other despite their mutual suspicion. They find meaning in hope and joint exploration.

In the television version, I found they delve deeper into their romantic tale, showcasing profound performances that uncover hidden affection beneath tough facades. Their heart-wrenching conclusion serves as a stark reminder that life’s journey, along with the people we decide to love, can bring significance even amidst a world filled with violence and despair. Consequently, their narrative stands out as a compelling testament to humanity within this franchise, emphasizing the impact of companionship on our lives.

1. Ellie and Joel

Heart Of The Series, Together They Form The Best Duo Of The Last Of Us

Struggling with hardship, affection, and selflessness, Joel and Ellie form a bond as they journey through a devastated world. This relationship serves as the emotional heart of the series, with their unlikely pairing teaching them to face pain and reawaken their shared humanity. They do this by reminiscing about the past or holding onto slender hopes for the future. The deepening trust between them keeps viewers enthralled.

The story opens with Joel being assigned to guide Ellie to the Fireflies, a mission he undertakes unwillingly but with steadfast determination. This dangerous expedition compels them both to grapple with sorrow and brutality, resulting in an extraordinary connection that represents the emotional zenith of the narrative. In the world of The Last of Us, Joel and Ellie exemplify a unique friendship – one that is as captivatingly beautiful as it is intricately complex.

2025-04-18 19:16