Just finished it about ten minutes ago and it was incredible.
The downward trajectory of Ellie was matched by the upward of Abby, with Ellie being consumed by guilt and hatred, losing her friends by her actions and the destruction of those around her. She became quite an unlikable character, although pretty 'fun' to play. I guess that was the whole point though, revenge, PTSD and so on having a psychological effect on people.
I loved playing Abby and watching her develop, making attachments and developing the humanity that Ellie was losing. She was more mature than Ellie in many ways, especially when she had Lev to live for. However, as somebody else pointed out, she had a tough fight in the basement of the hospital.
I guess the end, where she 'forgives' Abby, is fulfilling her forgiveness of Joel. Abby and Joel were alike and mirrored visually, amongst other ways, by the carrying of the child to safety. Ellie forgave Abby to save herself and allowed her to get on with her life. I guess that's why she leaves the guitar behind as well, on top of finding it a little awkward to play.
I really find the 'outrage' against it bemusing, especially the review bombing and so on. I guess it shows that the little boys will continue to be insignificant as the game has sold quite well, I hear. So weird when they pick on silly things like sexuality, Jews (honestly, read some Twitter stuff) and well-built female characters. Seriously, my wife manages a gym and there are some seriously hench ladies out there.
10/10 for me, an emotionally exhausting but incredibly involving game.
Well said, agree 100%. Best review I've read