Top Heartbreaking Deaths in The Last of Us Series That Left Fans in Tears

Summary

Emotional deaths in The Last of Us lead to tragic and memorable moments.
Major characters like Tess, Marlene, and Joel experience sacrifices and brutal ends.
The Last of Us series showcases a range of heartbreaking deaths and impactful storytelling.

In a more casual and engaging manner: “The Last of Us” series, comprising the original game and its sequel, are among the best video games ever created. The captivating narratives and intense combat mechanics make for an unforgettable gaming experience, ensuring that players will be fully satisfied after completing both titles.

In line with anticipation, the grim backdrop of these games often results in heart-wrenching deaths, leaving many players moved to tears. From selfless acts of valor to gruesome demises, The Last of Us is rife with a multitude of losses that resonate deeply with gamers long after they’ve completed the series.

This article contains major spoilers for both The Last of Us games.

8. Frank

Ends His Own Life And Derides Bill In His Suicide Note

Killed by: Himself (after being infected)

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but admit that Frank and Bill’s heartwarming tale stands out as a poignant moment in “The Last of Us” TV series. It’s tough not to feel a pang when their relationship’s tragic end is mirrored in the game. In the narrative, Joel and Ellie encounter Bill not long after Frank departs, unfortunately meeting his fate when bitten by an infected, all while yearning for a glimpse of the world beyond their current struggle.

He writes a heartbreaking suicide note filled with bitterness towards Frank, opting for self-destruction rather than becoming an infected creature. Despite their relationship developing beautifully on the show, it’s tough not to feel sorrowful upon witnessing this tragic end to their storyline in the game.

7. Marlene

Tries To Save Humanity And Devise A Cure But Is Shot In The Head For Her Efforts

Killed by: Joel Miller

The head of the Fireflies faced a tough challenge in searching for a cure, ultimately discovering a solution that took the form of Ellie. Yet, when Joel eventually delivered her to the Firefly Headquarters, he had grown so fond of the young girl that he was unwilling to let her perish, despite the potential consequences for the world’s future.

His actions lead him to indiscriminately attack and murder every Firefly he encounters, eventually culminating in his subduing and fatally shooting Marlene. It’s a harsh outcome for someone who didn’t deserve it, but she could have been more effective in conveying Ellie’s destiny to Joel.

6. Tess

Sacrifices Herself To Save Joel And Ellie

Killed by: FEDRA

In the grimy wake of a world overrun by the infected, Tess and I forged an unbreakable bond. Our ultimate goal was to guide Ellie safely to Firefly Headquarters, but fate had other plans. On our journey, Tess was bitten, and as the days passed, the infection took its toll on her.

She urgently pleads with Joel to take Ellie alone while he’s all on his own, putting herself in harm’s way by standing firm against FEDRA, giving them the chance to escape. Unfortunately, it led to a heartbreaking conclusion for one of Joel’s dearest friends; she deserved far more than that bitter end.

5. Jerry Anderson

Murdered By Joel For Doing His Job And Trying To Save The World

Killed by: Joel Miller

In the game The Last of Us, many players probably don’t give much thought to the doctor Joel stabs in the neck as he saves Ellie. It isn’t until the sequel that we learn more about this surgeon’s true nature.

Jerry Anderson, a cherished father figure, leaves behind Abby in the story of The Last of Us Part 2. This loss deeply affects the second main character, making it hard for her to accept. The events that follow see Abby pursuing Joel, who she believes responsible for Anderson’s death, and ultimately killing him. This act triggers Ellie into a quest for vengeance filled with violent encounters.

4. Riley Abel

Proposes That She And Ellie Lose Their Minds Together After They Get Bit

Killed by: Ellie (presumably, after being infected)

In “The Last of Us: Left Behind,” the game skillfully developed the bond between Ellie and Riley, portraying their playful interactions in a mall that eventually caught the attention of the infected. Unfortunately, they were bitten, leading Riley to propose waiting for the transformation. This decision was crucial for both characters.

On the other hand, although Riley eventually succumbed to the infection, Ellie surprisingly found out that she was immune. To add to the misery, it appears that she had to fatally wound Riley after she contracted the infection. This is particularly distressing because of the growing affection they both seemed to feel for each other.

3. Sam & Henry

The Brothers Share A Tragic Fate After Sam Is Bitten By One Of The Infected

Killed by: Sam was killed by Henry, who shot himself right after

Sam and Henry, two alike souls, join forces with Joel and Ellie. Yet, their path is fraught with obstacles rather than being a straightforward ride; in fact, one unlucky incident involving a struggle leaves Sam bitten by an infected individual.

In the midst of our shared ordeal, I managed to conceal this heart-wrenching truth from all of us – my intentional act of omission that would eventually catch up with me as the sun rose. As I found myself in a brutal confrontation with Ellie, an unforeseen twist unfolded: I was forced to take my brother’s life. The gravity of this action sent shockwaves through my mind, as the thought of ending the life of someone so close left me reeling. And in the aftermath, it was not long before the weight of it all became too much for me to bear, leading me to my own demise.

2. Joel Miller

His Death Is Shocking, And It Takes A While For The Sadness Of His Demise To Hit Players

Killed by: Abby Anderson

When Joel meets a brutal end before Ellie, it leaves many gamers struggling to comprehend their emotions. It’s plausible that numerous players felt enraged immediately after this event, yet the impact of Joel’s death was more profoundly felt over time through recurring flashbacks, which consistently moved fans to tears whenever they encountered Joel on-screen.

Joel’s death served as a fitting consequence for his violent actions during the climax of the first game, yet it continues to elicit sadness among players whenever they notice his absence in the sequel. This is particularly true given Ellie’s profound remorse over the breakdown of their relationship and Joel’s untimely end.

1. Sarah Miller

Her Death Sends Joel Spiralling Down A Path Of Despair

Killed by: U.S. Soldier

At the outset of “The Last of Us,” the introduction of Sarah Miller, Joel’s daughter, is exceptionally impactful, as the story unfolds amidst the initial outbreak of the infection. In a desperate attempt to flee, Joel and his brother Tommy set off with Sarah, but their journey is cut short when their vehicle meets an accident, leaving them in a precarious situation.

In their attempt to flee, Joel and Sarah encounter an American soldier under orders to shoot anyone within the contaminated area. The soldier opens fire, and despite Joel’s efforts to dodge, Sarah is struck and severely wounded in the abdomen. With her father holding her, Sarah ultimately succumbs to her injuries from the gunshot wound.

2025-04-06 16:04