Hometown

Your first steps in The Last of Us Part I begin in Hometown. This guide covers the prologue, playing as Sarah and Joel, and the tragic events that kick off the story.

Welcome to The Last of Us Part I! This is where it all begins, the prologue chapter simply called "Hometown." You'll get to experience the very start of the outbreak through the eyes of two characters: Sarah Miller, Joel's daughter, and Joel Miller himself. It's a heavy start, so buckle up.

Playing as Sarah

You'll start by controlling Sarah. It's a quiet night, and you're just a kid. You'll wake up to a phone call from your Uncle Tommy, but the line goes dead. As you explore the house, you'll notice things are off. There's a newspaper talking about infected people, and a TV report gets cut off by an explosion. Your dad, Joel, will burst in, telling you to stay away from the doors because your neighbors, the Coopers, have gotten sick. Things escalate quickly when Jimmy Cooper crashes through the glass door. Joel is forced to shoot him. It's a shock, but it's just the beginning of the chaos.

Escaping with Joel and Tommy

Tommy arrives in his truck, and you'll all try to escape. You'll see firsthand how bad things are – people have "lost their minds," and the roads are blocked. You'll have to make tough choices, like driving past a family pleading for help. Your escape route gets cut off, and your truck is T-boned. Sarah, you'll find your leg is injured. Joel will carry you as you try to make your way through the chaotic town, with people running, screaming, and explosions everywhere.

The Tragic End of the Prologue

You'll eventually reach a roadblock. While Tommy deals with some infected, Joel will try to get Sarah to safety. He'll be chased by infected, and a soldier will appear. Joel will ask for help, but the soldier will open fire. Just as Joel is about to be executed, Tommy arrives and saves him. Sadly, Sarah has been mortally wounded. Joel will try everything he can, but Sarah will pass away in his arms. It's a heartbreaking moment that sets the tone for the rest of the game.

Aftermath and the World

The game's title and opening credits will roll, showing news reports about the infection spreading worldwide. You'll learn about quarantine zones, martial law, and the emergence of a militia group called the Fireflies, led by Marlene. She'll deliver a message of hope, telling everyone to "look for the light" and "believe in the Fireflies!" This sets the stage for Joel's journey in the main part of the game.