Creating a Memorable Character Like Joel from The Last of Us
The Last of Us is an acclaimed video game that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. One of the most iconic characters in the game is Joel, a former firefighter turned smuggler who embarks on a perilous journey with Ellie to find safety and a sense of belonging in a post-apocalyptic world.
Joel’s Backstory: A Tragic Beginning
Before he became a smuggler, Joel was a firefighter who lost his wife and daughter to a mysterious virus that turned the world into a post-apocalyptic wasteland. This traumatic event left him emotionally scarred and determined to protect those he cared about, even if it meant breaking the law.
Joel’s Personality: A Complex Mix of Traits
Joel is a complex character with a mix of positive and negative traits that make him relatable and human. He is fiercely protective of Ellie, whom he sees as a surrogate daughter, and will go to great lengths to keep her safe. However, he is also a man haunted by his past mistakes and struggles with guilt over the choices he has made.
Joel’s Motivations: Survival and Belonging
Joel’s primary motivation in The Last of Us is survival. He is willing to do whatever it takes to keep Ellie and himself alive in a world that is hostile and unforgiving. However, he also seeks a sense of belonging and connection, which he finds through his friendship with Ellie and the other survivors they encounter on their journey.
Key Design Decisions That Made Joel Iconic
The developers of The Last of Us made several key design decisions that helped to make Joel such an iconic character. Firstly, they chose to portray him as a flawed hero, which made players feel more connected to him and his journey. Secondly, they used subtle visual cues to convey his emotional state, such as the way he holds Ellie’s hand or the haunted look in his eyes. Finally, they gave Joel a strong sense of purpose and motivation, which helped to drive the narrative forward and keep players engaged.
Real-Life Examples of Characters Like Joel
There are many real-life examples of characters like Joel who have inspired game developers. One such example is John McClane from the Die Hard movies, who is a lone hero fighting against overwhelming odds to protect those he cares about. Another example is Gordon Freeman from the Half-Life series, who is a brilliant scientist turned hero who must use his intellect and skills to fight against alien invaders.
FAQs
What motivated Joel in The Last of Us?
Joel’s primary motivation in The Last of Us was survival and finding a sense of belonging.
How did the developers make Joel such an iconic character?
The developers made Joel iconic by portraying him as a flawed hero, using subtle visual cues to convey his emotional state, and giving him a strong sense of purpose and motivation.
Are there any real-life examples of characters like Joel?
Yes, there are many real-life examples of characters like Joel, such as John McClane from the Die Hard movies and Gordon Freeman from the Half-Life series.
