Summary
Troy Baker and Ashley Johnson have reprised their roles as Joel and Ellie fromThe Last of Usfor a Halloween attraction set to be unveiled this September. What began as a single video game has grown into a major franchise which now includes one sequel, a hit show, andrumors ofThe Last of Us 3being in the works. Fans have grown to love the characters and the horror of the post-apocalyptic world. So, it’s not surprising that the entertainment industry is looking for more ways to bring the setting to the public.
While the terrifying Cordyceps of the series are a vital part of the story, Joel and Ellie are, arguably, the biggest draw for many. The development of their relationship over time is the core of first game and the show with numerous touchingmoments inThe Last of Usthat establish Ellie as Joel’s surrogate daughter. Now, the acting pair that originally brought these characters to life are returning to their roles for a brand-new attraction for fans to enjoy.
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Next month, Universal Studios in Orlando and Hollywood will be launching a newLast of Usattraction featuring the voices of Baker and Johnson as Joel and Ellie. Part of both parks' Halloween Horror Nights, the attraction will be a ride that invokes the horror of the series. Set in the first game’s Pittsburgh location, Universal Studios is plainly aiming for authenticity along with scares. Here, the performances of Baker and Johnson should be a significant asset.
Baker and Johnson recorded lines specifically for the attraction, giving riders the chance to go on an adventure in infected Pittsburgh with the real Joel and Ellie. While it’s not known exactly what the ride will entail or how the two protagonists will fit into the narrative, Universal Studios leadership has expressed excitement that they will be a part of the experience.
In addition to enlisting the stars ofThe Last of Us, Universal Studios also got the support of developer Naughty Dog and series co-creator Neil Druckmann in making the ride as accurate and exciting as possible. Druckmann is likely busy at the moment, now that he’s solely leading the studio sinceNaughty Dog’s co-president quit, so it’s great that he found the time to contribute to this project.
The Last of Us 3may force Ellie to take on Joel’s rolein the story, but visitors to Universal Studios in Orlando and Hollywood this Halloween will get to see the pair as the inspiring team they originally were. Gamers planning a trip to either park in the next couple of months will surely want to save some time on their itinerary to make a stop at thisLast of Usattraction. They should just be prepared for some jump scares and chills along the way.
