Warning: This article contains massive spoilers, so if you haven’t put a bow on Uncharted 2: Among Thieves yet, I suggest you divert your curious eyes.

Bravo Naughty Dog. You created one hell of a thrill ride. Your latest masterpiece had me hooked from start to finish, and like a good book or film, I found it tough to set aside, even for an hour or two. Among Thieves shattered my expectations, which were sky high to begin with.

An even more engrossing tale than Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune, Among Thieves has many memorable moments, but for me, nothing tops the emotion-laden final scene. It gives me a warm and fuzzy feeling each time I watch it.

The scene I’m referring to is, of course, where Drake and Elena finally come together, sharing a kiss beneath an azure sky. A beautiful, moving moment between two game characters that feel like so much more. Individuals I could share anecdotes with over a pizza, or call for a rousing game of poker. Perhaps even some “Don’t Break the Ice.”

Dare I say they feel like friends?

Whether or not that’s an appropriate label, there is definitely an emotional connection.

I fell in love with them during Drake’s Fortune, and it warmed my heart to see them unite. They’re just so cute together.

What made the scene even more emotional, was that Elena rested motionless mere moments – cutscene time – earlier. Naughty Dog, you almost ripped my heart out. My spirit sank when that grenade went off, giving me yet another reason to kick the shit out of that prick Lazarevic.

Later, as Elena was still, my heart pounded, overwhelmed by trepidation. For a moment, it seemed that she had been lost forever. Nothing more than a memory.

Fortunately, it was all a ruse. A clever trick meant to tug at my heart strings. Congratulations Naughty Dog. It worked.

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