What Song Does Ellie Play In The Last Of Us 2? Unraveling The Melodies Of Survival
For many who have journeyed through the gripping, often heartbreaking world of The Last of Us Part II, a particular set of sounds stays with you, long after the credits roll. It's the gentle strumming of a guitar, a comfort in a world full of danger, and a truly powerful voice that cuts through the silence. This music isn't just background noise; it's a vital part of Ellie's story, a way she connects with her past, expresses her feelings, and, in a way, tries to find some peace. You might be wondering, what specific tunes does she share with us, and what do they mean for her?
The game, you see, uses music in such a clever, deeply emotional way. It's almost like another character in itself, shaping our feelings and giving us hints about what Ellie is going through. Her guitar becomes a companion, a source of solace, and a tool for remembering what she holds dear. It's a rather poignant contrast, actually, to the often brutal landscape she navigates.
So, if you've ever found yourself humming along or feeling a lump in your throat during those quiet, musical moments, you're certainly not alone. Many people feel that deep connection. We're going to explore the tunes Ellie plays, the feelings they bring out, and why they matter so much to the whole experience. It's more than just a song; it's a piece of her soul, you know?
Table of Contents
- Ellie's Musical Heartbeat: The Core Tunes
- The Iconic "Take On Me": A Moment of Light
- "Future Days": A Promise and a Burden
- Other Melodies and Their Meaning
- The Power of Music in The Last of Us 2
- Fan Reception and the Guitar Mechanic
- Final Thoughts: The Lingering Echoes
Ellie's Musical Heartbeat: The Core Tunes
When we talk about the songs Ellie plays, two tracks really stand out as central to her journey and the story's overall feel. These aren't just random choices; they are deeply woven into the narrative, reflecting her hopes, her losses, and her connections with others. It's quite interesting how a few notes can tell such a big story, isn't it?
The first, and perhaps most memorable for many, is a classic 80s hit that brings a surprising burst of warmth to the grim post-apocalyptic world. The second is a track that holds immense personal significance for her and Joel, acting as a kind of musical anchor for their complex bond. Both of these songs, in their own ways, are really important for understanding Ellie's character and her emotional landscape.
These pieces of music, you see, are more than just songs; they're almost like diary entries, giving us a peek into Ellie's inner world. They show us how she tries to process things, how she remembers, and how she tries to keep going, even when things are very, very tough. So, let's take a closer look at these two key melodies, shall we?
The Iconic "Take On Me": A Moment of Light
One of the most talked-about musical moments in The Last of Us Part II features Ellie playing a stripped-down, acoustic version of a very famous song: A-ha's "Take On Me." This scene, which happens during a flashback to a happier time, is incredibly moving and provides a rare glimpse of joy and connection in Ellie's life. It's a really special memory, actually, that she shares with Joel.
The setting for this performance is a quiet, overgrown music store, a place where the echoes of a lost world still linger. Joel, always trying to give Ellie some happiness, finds a guitar and encourages her to play. She's a bit hesitant at first, but then she starts to strum, and that familiar tune fills the air. It's a pretty powerful scene, showing us a different side of their relationship, one full of warmth and shared moments.
This particular rendition of "Take On Me" is just beautiful, really. It's sung with such raw emotion by Ashley Johnson, the voice of Ellie, that it immediately captured the hearts of players everywhere. The simplicity of the guitar and her voice makes the lyrics feel even more poignant, giving them a new, deeper meaning in the context of their world. It's almost like a little ray of sunshine in a very dark place.
Why "Take On Me" Resonates
The choice of "Take On Me" for this scene is pretty brilliant, when you think about it. On the surface, it's a catchy pop song, but its lyrics, "I'll be gone in a day or two," and "Take on me," can be seen to reflect the fleeting nature of happiness and safety in their world. It also speaks to the idea of someone trying to reach out and connect, which is a big theme for Ellie and Joel. It's a very fitting choice, honestly.
This song, moreover, symbolizes a precious memory, a time when Ellie could still find some lightness and hope. It's a reminder of Joel's efforts to teach her about the world, to share his passions, and to simply be a father figure. For many players, this specific musical interlude is one of the most memorable and emotionally charged parts of the entire game. It just sticks with you, you know?
The moment is a bit bittersweet, as we know what happens later in the story. So, hearing that joyful tune is made even more impactful by the sadness that follows. It's a truly clever way to use music to enhance the narrative and make us feel even more connected to Ellie's struggles and her past. It really adds a lot to the whole experience.
"Future Days": A Promise and a Burden
The other extremely significant song Ellie plays is "Future Days" by Pearl Jam. This song holds a much heavier, more personal weight for her, as it was a tune Joel himself learned to play for her. It's a song that represents a promise, a bond, and ultimately, a painful reminder of loss. This is a very different kind of musical moment, you see, compared to "Take On Me."
Joel first plays "Future Days" for Ellie early in the game, a tender moment where he tries to teach her how to play the guitar. It's a quiet, intimate scene that underscores the deep connection they share, despite all their past difficulties. He's trying to pass something on to her, something meaningful, and that's really touching.
Later, as Ellie grapples with immense grief and a burning desire for revenge, she often turns to this song. Playing "Future Days" becomes a ritual, a way for her to remember Joel, to feel his presence, and perhaps, to grapple with the choices she's making in his name. It's almost like a very personal conversation she's having with him through the music.
The Weight of "Future Days"
"Future Days" isn't just a song; it's a symbol of Ellie's emotional journey. Its lyrics, which speak of looking forward and holding onto hope, take on a tragic irony given the path she chooses. She plays it when she's hurting, when she's remembering, and when she's trying to find some kind of direction. It's a very raw expression of her feelings, honestly.
The act of playing the guitar, in this case, is an active way for Ellie to process her feelings, a bit like how people use music to express themselves. She's not just listening; she's creating, channeling her sorrow and determination into the chords. It's a really powerful example of how making music by playing can be a form of emotional release, a way to deal with very big, difficult things.
Every time Ellie plays "Future Days," it reminds us of the profound impact Joel had on her life and the devastating consequences of his death. It's a haunting melody that underscores the game's themes of grief, love, and the often-destructive nature of vengeance. It really makes you think about her choices, you know?
Other Melodies and Their Meaning
While "Take On Me" and "Future Days" are the most prominent, Ellie also plays other tunes throughout the game, some of which are her own creations. These additional musical moments further enrich her character and add layers to the narrative. They show us more about her as a person, actually, beyond just her main quest.
These smaller musical bits, you see, might not be as grand as the main two, but they still serve a very important purpose. They help to build out her personality, showing her quieter moments, her moments of thought, and her moments of just being. It's a really nice touch that adds to the depth of her character.
Sometimes, these tunes are just simple strums, a way for her to pass the time or to calm herself. Other times, they are more deliberate, reflecting a specific mood or memory. They all contribute to the overall musical tapestry of the game, making Ellie feel even more real and relatable. It's pretty cool how they do that.
Ellie's Original Compositions
Ellie is not just a performer of existing songs; she also composes her own melodies. These original pieces are often simpler, more melancholic, and deeply personal. They usually reflect her inner turmoil, her struggles, and her attempts to find meaning in a broken world. It's almost like she's writing her own soundtrack to her life, you know?
These original tunes give us a deeper look into her psyche. They are raw, unfiltered expressions of her pain and resilience. When she plays her own music, it's a very intimate moment, allowing us to connect with her on a more profound level. It's pretty brave of her, actually, to share that much of herself.
The fact that she creates her own music highlights her artistic side and her capacity for expression, even in the most dire circumstances. It shows that even when everything else is falling apart, she still has this creative outlet, this way to make something beautiful out of chaos. That's a very powerful thing, really.
Music as a Coping Mechanism
For Ellie, playing the guitar is more than just a hobby; it's a vital coping mechanism. In a world filled with constant threats, loss, and trauma, music offers her a sanctuary, a way to escape, even if just for a few moments. It's a really important tool for her emotional well-being, honestly.
The act of playing, of feeling the strings beneath her fingers and hearing the notes, can be a form of self-soothing. It allows her to focus on something other than her pain, to find a brief respite from the relentless cycle of violence and revenge. It's a quiet, personal ritual that helps her to keep going, you know?
This connection between music and coping is something many people can relate to. Whether it's listening to music or making it, the power of sound to influence our mood and help us process feelings is undeniable. For Ellie, her guitar is a lifeline, a constant source of comfort and a way to maintain a piece of her humanity. It's pretty amazing how much she relies on it.
The Power of Music in The Last of Us 2
The musical score and the songs Ellie plays are absolutely central to the emotional impact of The Last of Us Part II. They don't just accompany the story; they actively shape it, deepening our understanding of the characters and their motivations. It's a really clever way to use sound, honestly.
The way the game integrates these musical moments, often allowing players to actively control Ellie's guitar playing, creates a unique sense of immersion and connection. It makes you feel like you're right there with her, sharing in her moments of joy, sorrow, and reflection. It's a very intimate experience, you know?
Music in this game serves as a powerful narrative device, conveying emotions and themes that words alone might not capture. It highlights the beauty that can still exist in a broken world and the enduring power of human connection, even when it's fraught with pain. It's a truly brilliant aspect of the game's design.
Fan Reception and the Guitar Mechanic
The musical moments in The Last of Us Part II, particularly Ellie's guitar playing, were met with widespread praise from fans and critics alike. The acoustic rendition of "Take On Me" quickly became a fan favorite, sparking countless discussions and covers online. People just really loved it, you know?
The game's innovative guitar playing mechanic, which allows players to strum and pick notes using the controller, was also a huge hit. It provided a surprisingly intuitive and satisfying way to interact with the music, making those emotional scenes even more personal. It's a very unique feature, honestly, that added a lot to the experience.
Many players spent hours just experimenting with the guitar, trying to learn their favorite songs or create their own melodies. This mechanic not only enhanced the gameplay but also deepened the connection players felt with Ellie and her musical journey. It was a really smart addition, actually, that resonated with a lot of people. You can learn more about game mechanics on our site, and perhaps link to this page about the guitar mechanic.
People Also Ask
What is the significance of the guitar in The Last of Us 2?
The guitar is incredibly significant in The Last of Us Part II, serving as a powerful symbol of connection, memory, and coping for Ellie. It's something Joel taught her, a way for them to bond, and after his death, it becomes her main way to remember him and process her overwhelming grief. It's almost like a very personal diary, you know, for her emotions.
Can you play other songs on the guitar in The Last of Us 2?
Yes, the game features a unique guitar-playing mechanic that allows players to strum and pick notes freely. While specific story moments feature "Take On Me" and "Future Days," players can actually experiment and try to play many other songs using the in-game interface. It's a really fun feature that adds a lot of replayability, honestly.
Who sings "Take On Me" in The Last of Us 2?
Ellie's beautiful, acoustic rendition of "Take On Me" is sung by Ashley Johnson, the talented actress who voices Ellie in the game. Her performance brought such raw emotion to the song, making it one of the most memorable musical moments in the entire series. She really poured her heart into it, you know?
Final Thoughts: The Lingering Echoes
The songs Ellie plays in The Last of Us Part II are far more than just background music; they are the very heartbeat of her story. From the hopeful yet fragile notes of "Take On Me" to the haunting, sorrowful chords of "Future Days," each melody tells a piece of her complex journey. These tunes reflect her deep connections, her immense pain, and her relentless pursuit of something she believes in. It's really quite profound how music can carry so much meaning.
The game's use of music, allowing players to feel the weight of each strum, transforms these moments into truly unforgettable experiences. It makes you feel a part of Ellie's world, sharing in her quiet moments of reflection and her loud outbursts of emotion. It's a testament to how sound can shape a narrative, making it feel incredibly personal and real. So, next time you hear those familiar chords, take a moment to really listen, you know?
These songs, you see, linger long after the game is over, echoing the themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of human spirit. They remind us that even in the darkest of times, there can still be beauty, expression, and a way to connect with what truly matters. What are your favorite musical moments from Ellie's journey? We'd love to hear your thoughts.
The Last of Us 2 - Ellie "Take on Me" Cover Song Realtime YouTube Live
The Last of Us 2 - Ellie sings "Take On Me" with guitar - YouTube
The Last Of Us Part II Ellie Guitar Giclee Print | lupon.gov.ph
