The Last of Us Characters Guide: Joel, Ellie, Abby and More

The Last of Us Character Guide

The world of The Last of Us is defined by its characters.

Rather than focusing on traditional heroes and villains, the series presents complex individuals trying to survive in a broken world.

Here are some of the most important characters in the franchise.

Joel Miller

Joel is a hardened survivor who lost his daughter during the outbreak.

Over time he becomes a smuggler, navigating the dangerous post-apocalyptic world.

His journey with Ellie gradually restores his humanity.

At least… until he makes one of the most morally controversial decisions in gaming.

Ellie Williams

Ellie is immune to the Cordyceps infection, making her humanity’s best hope for a cure.

She is brave, sarcastic, and surprisingly resilient for someone who grew up after the fall of civilization.

Her story becomes the emotional center of the series.

Abby Anderson

Abby is introduced in The Last of Us Part II.

Her story is directly tied to Joel’s past actions.

Although initially presented as an antagonist, the game gradually reveals her motivations and struggles.

Her perspective adds a new layer to the story’s exploration of revenge.

Dina

Dina is Ellie’s partner and one of the few people capable of bringing moments of warmth into the harsh world of the series.

Her relationship with Ellie provides emotional balance to the darker elements of the story.

Tess

Tess works alongside Joel as a smuggler in the Boston quarantine zone.

She is pragmatic, determined, and deeply loyal.

Her sacrifice early in the story plays a crucial role in pushing Joel and Ellie forward.

Tommy Miller

Tommy is Joel’s younger brother.

Unlike Joel, Tommy eventually tries to build a more stable life by helping lead the settlement of Jackson.

He represents the possibility that humanity might still rebuild something resembling a society.

ConsolePulse Take

What makes The Last of Us special is not the infected.

It’s the characters.

Every decision they make carries weight.

Every relationship feels real.

And sometimes the hardest battles are not against monsters — but against ourselves.