Hidden Video Game Easter Egg in The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 2’s Ending Song

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At the close of Season 2, Episode 2 of “The Last of Us”, Joel Miller experiences a gruesome ordeal. Abby, a former Firefly and now part of the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), spent the last five years seeking vengeance for those her father among others, whom Joel had killed at the Salt Lake City hospital. However, while one person may find solace in their revenge, it triggers a chain reaction as others suffer losses of loved ones, leading to an endless cycle of retribution.

At the end of the episode, there’s a moving scene where the characters are healing from the catastrophic events that transpired, depicted in a series of images, accompanied by the tune “Through the Valley.” The title of the episode is derived from this song. In Jackson, the horrors of a massive onslaught of infected have left the survivors devastated and many were forced to end the lives of their own who had been bitten. Abby and her companions seem to be leaving Jackson without a second glance, perhaps bound for Washington. However, the greatest loss is not of a person but of a child – Ellie and Dina are brought back gravely wounded by Jesse, while Joel’s lifeless body is dragged along in a bag through the snow. As the song plays on, listeners can’t help but feel a sense of sadness as they recognize the soothing voice that comes from the screen.

Who Sings the Song at the End of The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 2?

A Familiar Actor From the Game Lends Her Voice in the Newest Episode of The Last of Us

The original song “Through the Valley” is performed by Shawn James, who put it out in 2012. However, the rendition played in The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 2 is sung by Ashley Johnson, who lends her voice to Ellie throughout The Last of Us Part I and II. Johnson’s interpretation of the song was initially presented in 2016.

In the trailer, an older Ellie strums the guitar and sings “Through the Valley,” with Joel drawing near to a house marked by recent deceased that Ellie had previously abandoned. After completing her song, Joel inquires if she truly intends to carry out this plan, hinting at something significant. The tune is played just twice within the game itself. Initially, it’s the original rendition by James, played several weeks into the game as Ellie listens to a cassette tape. Later, during the end credits on challenging permadeath mode, we hear a studio version of Johnson’s cover of the song.

The Significance of “Through the Valley” in Relation to Joel’s Death

“Through the Valley” Has a Special History With The Last of Us Part II

The tune gained more recognition following its appearance in “The Last of Us Part II.” It served as a representation of Ellie succumbing to vengeance, yet it simultaneously symbolized the love between her and Joel. Initially, the trailer for the game might lead players to believe that Ellie is motivated by another character’s sorrow, possibly Dina, while Joel tries to steer her back towards an innocent life. However, this portrayal may not be as misleading as it seems. Even though he has passed away, the spirit of Joel lingers in Ellie’s mind throughout her quest to locate Abby.

Each time Ellie eliminates someone dear to Abby, it serves as a stark reminder for her about the significance of forgiveness in Joel’s eyes. Translating this scenario through “Through the Valley,” which symbolizes Ellie’s bitterness in the game and series, isn’t too dissimilar from the musician composing the song from the character’s viewpoint, influenced by his personal rage towards arrogant individuals who looked down on others.

The story revolves around a character I’ve developed, who, due to numerous instances of being wronged, chooses to live a secluded life. The song delves into his viewpoints and understandings about life, himself, and survival, reflecting perhaps a path I could have taken had I nurtured my resentment and bitterness instead. In essence, it symbolizes an alternative life choice.

The character James is so consumed by hatred that they remain indifferent to the notion of their spirit suffering in the hereafter. For them, nothing is more important than the short-term satisfaction of retribution. They acknowledge that the principles of kindness and compassion will always be present, but they cannot return to such a life after what has transpired.

It’s been after Season 2, Episode 2. She directly saw Joel’s demise and was left to carry the memory. She is set to revisit Jackson, where kindness continues to thrive, but her strongest longing is to go to Washington, a region overrun by conflict and animosity.

New episodes of The Last of Us premiere every Sunday at 9 PM ET on HBO.

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2025-04-22 00:20