What started as a PS3 exclusive in 2013 has become one of gaming’s most celebrated franchises. The Last of Us redefined narrative-driven games, spawned an equally ambitious sequel, and made the rare leap to prestige television. Here’s everything you need to know about Joel, Ellie, and the post-apocalyptic world Naughty Dog created.

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The Last of Us (2013)

Joel and Ellie in The Last of Us, overlooking a post-apocalyptic cityscape
The original Last of Us set a new standard for storytelling in games.

Naughty Dog, fresh off the Uncharted trilogy, took a sharp turn into darker territory. The Last of Us follows Joel, a hardened survivor, escorting Ellie, a teenager who may hold the key to a cure, across a fungus-ravaged America. What could have been a simple escort mission became one of gaming’s most emotionally devastating journeys.

Why it matters:

  • Raised the bar for character development and motion capture in games
  • Blended stealth, survival horror, and crafting into a cohesive experience
  • The ending sparked debates that continue to this day
  • Won over 200 Game of the Year awards

The game has been re-released multiple times: Remastered for PS4 (2014) with improved visuals and DLC included, and Part I for PS5/PC (2022), a full remake with modern graphics and accessibility options.

The Last of Us Part II (2020)

Ellie in The Last of Us Part II
Part II pushed the franchise, and players, into even darker territory.

Five years after the first game, Naughty Dog delivered a sequel that refused to play it safe. Set several years after the original, Part II follows an older Ellie on a revenge-fueled journey through Seattle. It’s brutal, polarizing, and technically stunning.

What makes it remarkable:

  • Arguably the most detailed game environments ever created
  • Expanded combat with prone movement, dodge mechanics, and rope physics
  • Dual narrative structure that challenges player perspective
  • Industry-leading accessibility features

The controversy: Part II made bold story choices that divided fans. Without spoilers, some players felt betrayed, others praised its ambition. Critical reception was overwhelmingly positive (94 on Metacritic), but user scores remain split. Love it or hate it, no one calls it forgettable.

The Remastered version (2024) added the roguelike “No Return” mode, behind-the-scenes content, and visual refinements for PS5. The PC port followed, though it launched with technical issues that have since been patched.

The HBO Series (2023–Present)

Comparison of The Last of Us game characters and HBO series cast
Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey brought Joel and Ellie to a new audience.

Video game adaptations have a rough history. The Last of Us broke the curse. Created by Craig Mazin (Chernobyl) and Neil Druckmann (the game’s director), the HBO series premiered in January 2023 to critical acclaim and massive viewership.

Why it works:

  • Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey deliver performances that honor the source while making the roles their own
  • Faithful to the game’s story beats while expanding the world for television
  • Episode 3 (“Long, Long Time”) became an instant classic and awards magnet
  • Proves games can translate to prestige TV without losing their soul

Season 2, covering Part II’s story, is currently in production. Given the game’s divisive reception, expect plenty of discussion when it airs.

Which Version Should You Play?

For the first game:

  • PS5 owners: The Last of Us Part I (2022 remake), best visuals, modern controls, full accessibility suite
  • Budget option: Remastered (PS4), still looks great, often on sale
  • PC: Part I is available on Steam, though check current patch status

For Part II:

  • PS5: Remastered (2024), includes No Return mode and all enhancements
  • PS4: Original version still holds up beautifully
  • PC: Available, but verify current performance after launch issues

FAQ

Do I need to play the games before watching the show?

No. The show is designed for newcomers. If anything, watching first might make the games feel even richer since you’ll catch references and appreciate the differences.

Is Part II really that divisive?

Yes. Critics gave it near-perfect scores; fan reception is more polarized. The best approach is to play it yourself and form your own opinion. It’s undeniably a technical and artistic achievement regardless of where you land on the story.

Should I play Part I before Part II?

Absolutely. Part II assumes you know the first game’s story and characters. The emotional impact depends on that foundation.

Is there a Part III coming?

Naughty Dog has hinted at more, but nothing is officially announced. Given the series’ success across games and TV, more content seems likely, eventually.