The Last Of Us Part 2: 10 Major Details You Missed In The New Trailer

1. Is Joel Dead?

Let me preface this entry by saying this is a theory only - as I know there are plenty of people out there who are flipping out at anyone even exploring this train of thought - but there is some evidence suggesting it's Joel, not Dina, who dies in the opening that sends Ellie on a quest for revenge.

First up is the fact that we never actually see Dina die. Sure, Ellie is looking for her, and there's a gunshot, but it's never stated outright. The vagueness seems purposeful, as the official description fails to mention exactly what happens as well, stating only that a 'violent event disrupts that peace'.

On top of this is the fact that it's Tommy, not Joel, who comes to console Ellie following the event. Something about the interaction seems off, especially when Joel is supposed to still be in the community living peacefully with his surrogate daughter, again as per the official description.

Likewise, Neil Druckmann has reiterated that this game will push how far players and Ellie are willing to go to avenge someone they love. While Dina's death would be enough justification for Ellie, the player has spent an entire game connecting with Joel, and losing him could allow the developers to synergise the narrative with the gameplay, not only questioning what Ellie is capable of doing to get revenge, but the player too.

There are other, smaller details as well, including the editing of the trailer, the shot of Joel not matching the shot of Ellie, and Ellie wearing Joel's jacket, but the vagueness alone is enough to make us question if Joel is as alive as he seems.