I just don't understand about why killing Joel, that terrible and horrible way, made this game rated badly...
Try to enter the position of the characters, be them, be in their situation, be in their environment...
First, for those who think Joel was made a fool in this game, Joel had been away from many battles against humans for many years. He got older, then again weaker. His settlement was made to help survivors, not to kill them. So, it is clear that why Joel and Tommy became soft. Joel is not "MADE" as a foolish old man, time and age ate him in the game realistically.
Second, for those who hate Abby, she grew in an environment of death. Kill or be killed is what she learned from life, and her lust for vengeance is realistic in the real life. She had a psychological issues indeed, yet made her full of charm. She had a purpose once in life, to get her revenge, but after that she didn't know what's right anymore. She is an example of someone who is looking for meaning. In the end, she got it.
Third, for those who said Ellie's motive to have revenge is not strong, you people are so wrong, totally. Ellie was pushed to the limit when she was forced to see her old father figure killed in front of her. Flashbacks explained greatly about how tight their relationship is. Be realistic. Imagine, if you, humans, know exactly who killed your dearest person savagely, and you have the chance and strength to get revenge, will you get it or not? Ellie massacred those people not for us, the players, but for herself. Ellie's character is made perfectly as she grew.
Buying this game is not a waste, at least for open minded gamers.
This game is far more worthy for purchase than Resident Evil 3 Remake.