The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Spoilers for The Last of Us Part II and Season 2, Episode 2 of HBO’s The Last of Us. Yes: Joel dies in both The Last of Us Part II and the HBO series. Abby kills him in the game and in Season 2, Episode 2. He survives the first game and the show’s first season.
Why does Abby kill Joel?
Abby is seeking revenge because Joel killed her father, a doctor at St. Mary’s Hospital, while rescuing Ellie at the end of the first story. The two versions reveal that motive at different points: the show makes the connection clear during Joel’s death scene, while the game delays the explanation for several hours.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
The Last of Us Part I – PlayStation 5 | $37.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
The Last of Us: Escape the Dark Board Game | $72.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
The Last of Us Remastered Hits - PlayStation 4 | $19.93 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
![PS4 THE LAST OF US REMASTERED (US) [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51O7ojkZu4L._SL160_.jpg)
|
PS4 THE LAST OF US REMASTERED (US) [video game] | $21.88 | Buy on Amazon |
How does Joel die in the show?
In HBO’s version, Joel is on patrol with Dina when he helps Abby escape infected and then accompanies her to shelter. Abby and her former Firefly companions identify and capture him. Ellie reaches the scene and witnesses the assault; Abby kills Joel while Ellie begs her to stop.
The episode aired as Season 2, Episode 2. Joel’s death is not in the first season, which adapts the earlier part of his and Ellie’s story.
#1 Best Overall
- Enhanced visuals: Completely rebuilt from the ground up using Naughty Dog’s latest PS5 engine technology to improve every visual detail, The Last of Us experience has been faithfully enhanced with more realistic lighting and atmosphere, more intricate environments and creative reimaginings of familiar spaces.
- Fast loading: Initial loading times are near instant, and seamless after the first instance thanks to the PS5 console’s SSD – so you can pick up where you left off in the story and load specific encounters and chapters more quickly.
- Haptic feedback: DualSense wireless controller haptic feedback support for every weapon elevates combat encounters, and environments are brought to life through DualSense wireless controller haptic sensations of subtle falling rain, the crunch of stepping on snow and more.
- Adaptive triggers: All The Last of Us iconic weapons, including Joel’s revolver and Ellie’s bow, now deliver dynamic DualSense wireless controller trigger resistance and kickback on firing for deeper combat immersion.
- 3D Audio: Designed to make use of the PS5 console’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, Naughty Dog’s newly upgraded audio engine delivers richer soundscapes, bigger explosive moments and more visceral gameplay through compatible stereo headphones (analogue or USB) or TV speakers.
How does Joel’s death differ in the game?
In The Last of Us Part II, Joel patrols with Tommy rather than Dina. Abby’s group captures Joel and Tommy, and Ellie arrives at the scene. The central outcome is the same, but the game initially presents the event with less context about Abby’s identity and motive, making the death a sudden turn for the player.
| Detail | The Last of Us Part II | HBO series |
|---|---|---|
| When Joel dies | Early in the game | Season 2, Episode 2 |
| Joel’s patrol partner | Tommy | Dina |
| When Abby’s motive is explained | Several hours after the death | During the death scene |
| Who kills Joel | Abby | Abby |
Why did the show put the death so early?
After the episode aired, executive producers Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann told TheWrap that they considered moving Joel’s death later but chose to keep it early. Druckmann called it “the incident that then carries the rest of the season that we needed to move it as early as possible,” describing it as the first-act break that drives what follows. Mazin said, “He was always going to die, just like in the game.” TheWrap’s April 20, 2025 interview discusses the timing and adaptation choices.
Rank #2
- BASED ON AWARD-WINNING FRANCHISES: Experience the treacherous world of The Last of Us, now a major HBO TV series and a beloved video game from Naughty Dog, in an immersive board game format.
- RICH, NARRATIVE GAMEPLAY: Join iconic characters like Joel and Ellie on a harrowing journey from a Quarantine Zone to Jackson, navigating through iconic locations filled with challenges.
- DYNAMIC CHALLENGE SYSTEM: Powered by the latest evolution of the Escape the Dark system, featuring large, narrative-rich chapter cards that introduce complex scenarios including encounters with FEDRA agents, hunters, and the infected.
- STRATEGIC DECISION-MAKING: Survival hinges on crafting and weapon upgrades directly inspired by the video game’s mechanics, requiring players to make strategic use of dice and item cards.
- COLLECTOR'S ITEM: A must-have for fans with high-quality components and detailed artwork that bring the hauntingly beautiful atmosphere of The Last of Us to life. Ideal for 1-5 players, offering 60-90 minutes of engaging gameplay per session.
The Television Academy also describes Joel’s murder and Abby’s introduction as major events from the second game adapted for television. Mazin noted that the show can use the strengths of its medium to tell the story differently. The Television Academy’s feature covers the season’s major story moments.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- 20 years after a pandemic has radically changed known civilization, infected humans run wild and survivors are killing each other for food, weapons; Whatever they can get their hands on
- Explore a brutal post pandemic world, fully realized with the power of PlayStation 4 system
- Delve into Ellie’s past in left ehind, the single player prequel chapter
- Eight new multiplayer maps in the abandoned and reclaimed territories packs
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
