The Seattle Aquarium in The Last of Us Part II
The Seattle Aquarium plays a memorable, though tragic, role in The Last of Us Part II. Within the game, the aquarium is a post-apocalyptic environment, heavily overgrown and altered by years of neglect and the growth of clickers and other infected.
While fictionalized, its inclusion highlights the game’s themes of loss, environmental decay, and humanity’s struggle for survival. Let’s take a closer look at the aquarium’s portrayal in the game.
The Aquarium’s Role in the Story
The Seattle Aquarium serves as a key location during Ellie’s time in Seattle. She navigates through the dilapidated aquarium, encountering various enemies and challenges. The aquarium’s once vibrant displays are now haunting reminders of the world that was. The location reflects the game’s broader theme of decay and the transformation of familiar landmarks into dangerous and unrecognizable environments.
The Aquarium’s Design and Atmosphere
Naughty Dog, the game’s developer, meticulously designed the aquarium to reflect a post-apocalyptic setting. The once-pristine tanks are now cracked and algae-covered, teeming with both aquatic life and infected creatures. This juxtaposition creates a disturbing and unsettling atmosphere, reinforcing the game’s overall tone. The decayed marine environment contrasts with the vibrant and educational experience the aquarium was originally designed for.
Real-World Inspiration
While the aquarium in The Last of Us Part II is a fictionalized and heavily modified version, it clearly draws inspiration from the real-world Seattle Aquarium. The general layout and some of the exhibits are recognizable, allowing players familiar with the city to connect the game’s world to their own experience. However, it is important to remember that the in-game aquarium presents a far grimmer scenario compared to the real-life institution.
The Aquarium’s Significance within the Last of Us Universe
The Seattle Aquarium, and other destroyed landmarks, underscores the irreversible damage caused by the cordyceps outbreak. The game uses locations like this to create a sense of loss and show the tangible consequences of the infection on both humanity and the natural world. It’s a powerful example of the game’s environmental storytelling, making the world feel more realistic and impactful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Seattle Aquarium actually abandoned in real life?
No, the real-world Seattle Aquarium is a functioning and popular attraction. The abandoned and overgrown state depicted in The Last of Us Part II is purely fictional.
What kind of enemies do you encounter in the Aquarium?
Players encounter Clickers and other infected enemy types in the Seattle Aquarium. The confined spaces and partially flooded areas make these encounters particularly tense and challenging.
How does the Aquarium contribute to the story’s themes?
The aquarium symbolizes the decay of civilization and the loss of innocence. The once-thriving aquatic environment, now overrun with infected, emphasizes the irreversible damage caused by the cordyceps outbreak.
Was the real Seattle Aquarium consulted during the game’s development?
While it’s unknown if the real-world aquarium staff were directly consulted, Naughty Dog is known for extensive research and location scouting. The game designers likely used the actual aquarium as a visual reference.
Is the Aquarium a mandatory location to visit in the game?
Yes, the Seattle Aquarium is a mandatory location that the character Ellie must pass through at a point during the game’s main storyline.
Summary
The Seattle Aquarium in The Last of Us Part II serves as a poignant reminder of the pre-apocalyptic world. Its dilapidated state and the presence of infected creatures highlight the game’s themes of loss, decay, and the struggle for survival. While fictionalized, it draws inspiration from the real-world Seattle Aquarium, grounding the game in a familiar setting and further emphasizing the impact of the cordyceps outbreak on humanity and the environment.
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