Part 10/14:

Neil Druckmann and Mason view this as an essential element, reflective of their interest in character depth and mental health themes. Though deeply rooted in real-world psychology, such scenes—set in a world ravaged by catastrophe—pose logical questions: Who would provide mental health services in a devastated society? How much would such therapy cost, and is it feasible in an environment where resources are scarce?

This narrative choice exemplifies the tendency of the creators to layer their story with contemporary issues, even if it sometimes feels disconnected from the gritty realism of the post-apocalyptic setting. Critics argue that these scenes risk undermining the narrative's authenticity, though supporters see them as a valuable exploration of trauma and resilience.