Jackson (Part I)

Lore & Background

Built upon an old ranch, Jackson is enclosed by wooden fences and watchtowers designed to keep out both infected hordes and hostile human groups. The community focuses on agriculture, livestock, and scavenging, creating a self-sustaining loop that allows them to live without constant fear of starvation or infection. Unlike the militarized zones seen elsewhere, Jackson operates on trust and mutual aid, though strict security protocols remain in place at all times. Tommy Miller serves as the de facto leader during this period, having established the settlement after parting ways with Joel years prior. His leadership style contrasts sharply with his brother's survivalist cynicism; Tommy believes in building a future rather than just enduring the present. This ideological difference creates tension when Joel decides to leave again, prioritizing Ellie over the safety of the community. The settlement also serves as a hub for refugees fleeing other areas. It is a place where children can play outside without immediate danger, a rarity in this world. The presence of families and schools indicates that Jackson is not just surviving but attempting to preserve culture and normalcy against overwhelming odds.

In Their Own Story

The wind howled softly through the pines surrounding the valley walls, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and damp earth. Ellie sat on a wooden crate near the perimeter fence, watching two younger kids chase each other across the dirt yard. It was strange to see laughter that wasn't hiding something darker. Joel stood nearby, hands in his pockets, eyes scanning the tree line habitually even here. He looked back at her, seeing not just the girl he had to deliver, but someone who could actually have a life if they stayed. But the Fireflies waited elsewhere. The safety of Jackson was real, yet it felt like holding your breath too long.

Reader's Guide

In the original game narrative, Joel and Ellie arrive at Jackson after escaping Bill's town. They reunite with Tommy Miller, who offers them shelter. After a brief period of rest where they bond with the community, Joel decides to leave for Santa Barbara despite Tommy's objections. The HBO adaptation expands this arc significantly in Episode 5. It provides deeper insight into daily life within the walls and emphasizes the emotional weight of leaving a safe place behind. The decision to depart is portrayed as a conflict between safety and duty. In both versions, no major deaths occur within Jackson during this specific segment; Tess dies earlier, and the main threats are external. The narrative shifts from survival horror to character drama here, focusing on Joel's internal struggle regarding Ellie's fate before they resume their journey toward the hospital.

Did You Know?

• Jackson was designed by developers to contrast with the urban decay of Pittsburgh and Boston.
• Tommy Miller eventually becomes the Sheriff of Jackson in later timeline events.
• The settlement features visible crop fields, emphasizing self-sufficiency over scavenging.
• This is one of the few locations where Ellie interacts freely with other children.