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40+ Last of Us Tattoo Ideas for a Gamer's Dream Come True!

by Sherri Owens

Even the most hardcore gamers are sure to love the Last of Us tattoos I have found. From symbols and character portraits to moving scenes, you will be spoiled for choice!

I have been doing Last of Us tattoos for a few years now. However, with the release of the hit TV show, there have been even more clients requesting these tattoos, so I figured I would show you the top options available to you.

In addition to some really cool Last of Us tattoo ideas, I have also given you some insight into the various designs and how to put your own twist on these tattoos!

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The Best Last of Us Tattoo Ideas

Here are the top Last of Us tattoo ideas for you to choose from:

Moth Tattoos

If you are looking for a symbol for Last of Us tattoo ideas, then you may want to start with this particular design - the moth.

Black and Grey Moth Tattoo

Image by @brookxyn and
lilactattoostudio via Instagram

As an enthusiast of the game, you may have noticed that in the second video game of the series, moths are in various parts of the loading screens and gameplay. Well, this is because there is some significance to these moths.

Paint Stroke Style Moth Tattoo

Image by @eduardo.ruiztattoo via Instagram

The developers of the game put these moths in the game for a couple of different reasons. First, the moths are meant to portray death. This is based on certain cultural associations with moths.

Considering that the game is set during a pandemic and that there are so many ruthless characters and harrowing scenes, death is pretty common in the series. As such, the moth is a good symbol of this, making it a top option for Last of Us tattoo ideas.

Bold Ink Moth Forearm Tattoo

Image by @cipponeinkorporated via Instagram

The other reason that moths were chosen is because they are symbolic of obsession in the game. Different factions are obsessed with different things according to the storyline. For instance, the Fireflies are focused on getting their hands on Ellie and using her for a cure.

Dripping Moth with Script Tattoo

Image by @addygracetattoos via Instagram

Joel and Ellie, on the other hand, are largely focused on their own survival, especially after escaping the Fireflies in the first game.

At the same time, the moth can be considered a positive sign as well. This is because moths have a tendency to seek out the light in the dark.

Switchblade Tattoos

If you are looking for cool or symbolic Last of Us tattoo ideas, then you should definitely consider a switchblade. It is essentially a symbol of Ellie as it is one of her main weapons. She uses it throughout the game to protect herself and others.

Switchblade with a Flower Forearm Tattoo

Image by @bucksaw_tattoo via Instagram

The reason that the switchblade should top the list of your Last of Us tattoo ideas is because it is a sign of Ellie's courage. Despite the fact that she is so young, she rarely hesitates when it comes to defending herself and the ones that she cares about. It is also a sign of how she is quite capable of taking care of herself.

Switchblade with Blood Splash Arm Tattoo

Image by @queenpink_carol via Instagram

The switchblade can also be seen as a symbol of the times and the world that Ellie is living in. The circumstances are so dire that a girl is forced to arm herself with a weapon.

Greyscale Switchblade Tattoo

Image by @silentmarshtattoo via Instagram

You can choose to simply get a tattoo of the switchblade or you can choose to add other design or decorative elements if you want. In case you want more authentic Last of Us tattoo ideas, you should take a close look at the knife shown in the game and copy this exactly for your tattoo.

Switchblade and Moth Tattoos

The combination of these two elements makes for one of my favorite Last of Us tattoo ideas. They are a great way for you to profess a love of the game just by using symbols!

Switchblade and Moth Combination Tattoo

Image by @trashlordd via Instagram

The other reason that the switchblade and the moth make for excellent Last of Us tattoo ideas is due to the fact that they are pretty badass symbols. When combined, they give you the feeling of something a bit eerie and discomforting.

Switchblade and Double Moths Tattoo

Image by @spookysophietattoo via Instagram

There is also the fact that concepts like danger, obsession, and death are major themes with this video game.

Moth and Switchblade Linework Tattoo

Image by @chezwang via Instagram

Ellie Tattoos

As far as Last of Us tattoo ideas go, it makes sense for Ellie to be a top pick. After all, she is one of the main characters of the game as well as the TV show.

The Last of Us Elli Tattoo Piece

Image by @inna.faith.tattoo via Instagram

And, if you are looking for more contemporary Last of Us tattoo ideas, then Ellie makes the most sense as Joel is only a main character for the first game. That being said, there are plenty of reasons for why you are considering Ellie as Last of Us tattoo art.

The Last of Us Elli and Mushrooms Tattoo

Image by @forshadowedhope via Instagram

For instance, Ellie is a product - and therefore a symbol - of this new world. It is due to the circumstances that she is living in that she is forced to be brave, strong, and even brutal when events call for it. To a certain degree, she can also be a sign of lost innocence.

The Last of Us Elli and Moth Tattoo

Image by @crystaltattooart via Instagram

There are a few different concepts that you can choose from for such Last of Us tattoo ideas. To begin with, you will need to decide what kind of final result you want for your Ellie tattoo. Do you want her to look like a pixelated video game character? Or, do you prefer a more artistic approach to the Last of Us tattoo?

Keep in mind that you will need a talented tattoo artist to help you create a more realistic video game character.

The Last of Us Elli's Greyscale Leg Tattoo

Image by @lipsis.tattoo via Instagram

Keep in mind that although Ellie is the main focus of your Last of Us tattoo, you can still add other details if you want. These can be decorative elements or you can simply add other details from the games.

Joel Tattoos

Joel may sadly not be a part of the Last of Us franchise anymore but he certainly made quite the impact in the first game. Fans can agree that he wasn't just important for moving the story along but also to make the game more meaningful for players.

Last of Us Joel Arm Tattoo

Image by @hoggsofwar via Instagram

For the most part, Joel a father figure for Ellie who protects her from danger - even risking the future of humanity - but he has a redemption arc as well. Joel lost his daughter close to the beginning of the outbreak and has been suffering ever since. Ellie gives him a new lease on life.

Last of Us Joel's Face Tattoo

Image by @puregonzo via Instagram

Now, there are several ways to portray Joel in your Last of Us tattoo. If you want you can portray him in action, fighting off clickers, hunters, or Fireflies. Or, you can portray a softer version of him, with him playing his guitar.

Side View of Last of Us Joel Leg Tattoo

Image by @willscustomstattoo via Instagram

As with other portrait Last of Us tattoo ideas, you have the option of adding other details to your Last of Us tattoo. You can choose to stick to the artwork provided in the story or you can choose to get creative with your Last of Us tattoo art.

Joel and Ellie Tattoos

As far as beautiful and meaningful Last of Us tattoo ideas, this concept definitely has to be at the top of the list! When you have Joel and Ellie in your Last of Us tattoo, you are doing more than just depicting the main characters of the video game.

You are also highlighting the important relationship between these characters. This is what adds a more humanistic element to the games and is what has many people hooked on them too!

Joel and Ellie Portrait Style Tattoo

Image by @nataliasilveira.tattoo via Instagram

There are so many different ways that you can go with these Ellie and Joel Last of Us tattoo ideas. You can make sure that the characters look like they are straight from the Last of Us video game art. Or, you can choose to go with a more artistic take for your Last of Us tattoo.

Keep in mind that for a more realistic look, you will need to work with a good artist, perhaps someone who is familiar with the Last of Us games and art.

Joel and Ellie Split Tattoo

Image by @whisperstattoo via Instagram

One of the really cool Last of Us tattoo ideas is where the portrait tattoo consists of have of Joel's and half of Ellie's face. Not only is this a lovely and intricate tattoo, but it is a cool way to show how these two rely on each other as you play the video game.

Joel and Ellie Sketch Style Leg Tattoo

Image by @can.tattoos via Instagram

Ellie and Joel Artistic Tattoo Piece

Image by @marko_skorka_demon_art_tattoo via Instagram

Ellie's Tattoos

As you will have noticed, as Ellie gets older in the video game, she begins to sport a tattoo. In fact, it has become one of the top Last of Us tattoo ideas!

Moth and Leaves Ellie's Forearm Tattoo

Image by @xerostotle and belladonnatattoocollective via Instagram

So:

What does Ellie's tattoo symbolize?

If you are wondering about the significance of Ellie's tattoo or are trying to figure out why Ellie got her tattoo in the second game, there is an answer!

The tattoo on Ellie consists of a fern and a moth. Now, some people call it Ellie's butterfly tattoo but the creature is actually a moth.

Last of Us Ellie's Forearm Tattoo

Image by @capt_ace_danger via Instagram

According to the developers of the game, the tattoo is largely functional and is meant to cover up the chemical burn that covers up the scar from her bite. At the same time, the moth design has significance.

It is meant to signify death and obsession. As the moth is also present on Ellie's guitar, it is also a reminder of her ties to Joel and her old life.

Greyscale Moth and Leaves Ellie's Tattoo

Image by @luckytattoos via Instagram

If you are looking for Last of Us tattoo ideas that directly tie into the Last of Us video game, then this is definitely a design that you should be considering!

Cordyceps Tattoos

I know, as far as Last of Us tattoo ideas, Cordyceps tattoos can feel like an unusual Last of Us tattoo. However, I think it is a really cool and unique tattoo concept that can really help your Last of Us tattoo design to stand out.

Massive Cordyceps Giraffe Spider Monster Tattoo

Image by @jayeshepherdtattoo via Instagram

From an artistic point of view, this kind of Last of Us tattoo is actually really quite aesthetically pleasing. There are also so many design options available to you with these Last of Us tattoo ideas.

Cordyceps Skull Tattoo

Image by @erekglover via Instagram

Although such tattoos can feel like they are a bit of a downer, keep in mind that the Last of Us games wouldn't really exist if it were not for the virus. It is dangerous and inconvenient but also makes things a lot more interesting!

Last of Us Zombie Fungus Tattoo

Image by @whisperstattoo via Instagram

Last of Us Cordyceps Sleeve Wrap Tattoo

Image by @ironthorntattoo via Instagram

Clicker Tattoos

If you don't mind Last of Us tattoo ideas that are kind of out there, then you should definitely consider getting a clicker as a tattoo design.

Now, bear in mind that some of these Last of Us clicker tattoos can be a bit gruesome. However, if you are a fan of the horror genre, then you are sure to love them.

Last of Us Clicker Colored Tattoo

Image by @threekingsnyc via Instagram

The key to these Last of Us tattoo ideas is to make sure that the details match up to either the Last of Us video game or even the TV show. This way, your Last of Us clicker tattoo will be a bit more identifiable.

Black and Grey Last of Us Clicker Leg Tattoo

Image by @mario_elb_ via Instagram

That being said, you are free to play and get creative with these Last of Us tattoo ideas. Just check out these tattoos here!

Last of Us Clicker Arm Tattoo

Image by @gregscotttattoos via Instagram

Last of Us Clicker with Cordyceps Tattoo

Image by @skunxtattoo via Instagram

Last of Us Aggressive Clicker Tattoo

Image by @lysa.tattooist via Instagram

Last Of Us Clicker Fungus Tattoo

Image by @verylame via Instagram

Endure and Survive Tattoos

I love Last of Us tattoo ideas such as this because it takes an idea from the video game and really runs with it. As you may remember, the words endure and survive are taken from the pages of Ellie's favorite comic books.

Last of Us Sword and Moth Tattoo

Image by @zahira_sliceoflife via Instagram

Therefore, these Last of Us tattoo ideas are a great way of showing the contrast between the joys and innocence of childhood and the harsh realities that Ellie faces.

Last of Us Moth and Ellie’s Blade Tattoo

Image by @leanimal_tattoos via Instagram

Last of Us Moth and Ellie’s Blade with Barbed Wire Tattoo

Image by @royzilla_tattooer via Instagram

Last of Us Ellie’s Blade and Moth Tattoo

Image by @mariavonn via Instagram

Last of Us Ellie’s Blade and Flowers Tattoo

Image by @hannahthebee via Instagram

Last of Us Scene Tattoos

As the name suggests, these tattoo ideas are based on scenes that are lifted from either the gameplay, the cut scenes, or stills from the TV series. However, you can create your own scenes.

Here are some tattoo ideas for you to borrow from:

Last of Us The Giraffe Scene Tattoo

Image by @tattooist_marco via Instagram

Last of Us The Forest Scene Tattoo

Image by @maryjane.tattoos via Instagram

The Last of Us Polaroid Tattoo Piece

Image by @33lionstattoo via Instagram

What is the Best Tattoo in the Last of Us?

In the Last of Us series, the most obvious tattoo that springs to mind is Ellie's, which prominently features a fern as its plant design. It's a fan favorite, so it can be argued that it is among the best when it comes to video game tattoos.

Well, there you go - the top Last of Us tattoos for you to choose from! It doesn't matter if you want something simple or are looking for something beautiful and complex, you will find all the ideas you need right here!

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