The wait for Season 2 of HBO’s The Last of Us is nearly over, and fans of both the series and the games have reason to celebrate. HBO recently dropped the first trailer, which has stirred excitement and goosebumps alike, hinting at moments deeply familiar to those who have played The Last of Us Part II. True to form, the series has taken the opportunity to expand and build upon certain moments, mirroring the game’s narrative with fresh layers and new perspectives.
But one specific scene, instantly recognizable to fans of the game, stands out: a gentle, intimate moment between Ellie (Bella Ramsey) and Dina (Isabela Merced), sharing a musical interlude in a stark post-apocalyptic landscape. The scene recreates a beloved and optional moment from the game, adding a new emotional depth for series fans while honoring a memorable scene from the game.
A Quiet Pause in a Chaotic World: The Ellie and Dina Scene
For players of The Last of Us Part II, the sight of Ellie strumming a few tender notes on a guitar in a dilapidated music store has a special significance. In the game, Ellie and Dina’s journey through the desolate city of Seattle is anything but leisurely, yet the developers at Naughty Dog included opportunities for players to explore derelict buildings and deserted spaces. Here, players could stumble upon this poignant scene, where Ellie, inspired by Joel’s music lessons, plucks out a version of a-ha’s “Take On Me.” It’s a surprising, quiet intermission in an otherwise intense and brutal story, allowing Ellie and Dina’s relationship to bloom in the most unlikely of places.
The moment resonated deeply with fans, standing out as a favorite despite being completely optional. In fact, many players missed it on their first run-through, unaware of the hidden interaction until later playthroughs or word of mouth. Back in 2020, reviews of the game praised this scene as a significant moment, describing it as “a rendition of an old classic on a forgotten guitar.” Its simplicity and emotional clarity give it a unique place in players’ memories—a soft contrast to the game’s more dramatic events.
How the Series Will Revisit an Iconic Moment
This isn’t the first time The Last of Us series has nodded to the musical legacy of Take On Me. In Season 1, Episode 7, we heard the song woven into a flashback with Ellie and Riley, an echo of the game’s themes of memory and nostalgia. The choice of this song and its recurrence in the series underscores the emotional depth of Ellie’s journey, connecting her story across seasons and across mediums. Bringing this scene to life in Season 2 not only honors a fan-favorite moment but introduces it to a new audience who may not have experienced the game firsthand.
With Bella Ramsey’s portrayal of Ellie and Isabela Merced as Dina, the scene promises to bring these emotional connections vividly to life. For viewers, it’s a chance to witness Ellie’s layers of resilience and vulnerability—a reminder of the hope and humanity that survive even in the bleakest times. This scene will likely add a new dimension to Ellie and Dina’s growing bond, giving viewers a glimpse of their relationship as it evolves against a backdrop of ruin and survival.
A Heartfelt Tribute to the Game’s Fans
By recreating this musical scene, the series acknowledges the power of quiet moments in storytelling and celebrates the fan community that has cherished these details. Whether or not the series will feature the same rendition of Take On Me remains to be seen, but its presence reaffirms the connection between the game and the show, celebrating the storytelling that has made The Last of Us resonate so deeply across different audiences
As Season 2 of The Last of Us draws near, this scene stands as a reminder of how even the smallest moments—a familiar tune, an abandoned guitar—can leave a lasting impression. It’s these subtle, heartfelt touches that keep fans returning to this story, finding new meaning with each retelling.
