The Last of Us, initially launched in 2013 on PlayStation 3, quickly captivated gamers with its profound narrative following protagonists Joel Miller and Ellie Williams. Following subsequent remasters and an acclaimed HBO adaptation, the story has reached a wider audience. This leads to a pivotal question: for those new to the franchise, which format should they experience first?
Although the HBO series has garnered numerous awards, it owes much of its success to the original game. The immersive experience of the video game remains unparalleled, now enhanced with a remake for PlayStation 5 and PC, boasting stunning graphics, gripping gameplay, and the beloved storyline that fans adore. Hence, it is highly recommended to experience The Last of Us video game series prior to watching the series for a deeper connection.
Disclaimer: The viewpoints represented in this article are solely those of the author.
Why You Should Prioritize the Game Over the HBO Series
Video game adaptations have often struggled to find their footing; however, HBO’s first season of The Last of Us stands out as a triumph. The series prioritizes emotional depth over relentless action, allowing for more poignant moments of character development. While the narrative remains faithful, certain modifications were implemented to distinguish the show and enrich its storytelling.
Although the original PlayStation 3 version may appear dated, and the remaster has performed well on PlayStation 4, the versions available on PC and PlayStation 5 are hailed as the definitive formats. Embrace the advantages of the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, or customize your settings on PC to further enhance your experience.
The video game not only contains the dramatic elements found in the HBO adaptation but also delivers heart-pounding action sequences and emotionally charged character dynamics. There’s simply no substitute for stepping into the shoes of these resilient survivors during harrowing encounters.
The HBO Adaptation’s Creative Adjustments
Craig Mazin, the showrunner, is a devoted fan of the source material. He aimed to share this captivating story with a broader audience while respecting long-time fans. Not every viewer has the time or inclination to undertake a lengthy gaming experience; thus, the live-action series serves as an accessible entry point.
However, as a television adaptation, it cannot perfectly mirror every scene from the game. One significant alteration was the reduction of intense action sequences involving the Infected, a formidable presence in the original narrative. The first season features moments of excitement, but they don’t quite reach the immersive intensity of the game itself.
Another notable adjustment involved Bill’s storyline. While Bill was a secondary character in the game, the series expanded his narrative to introduce more depth and background on his partner, Frank.
Furthermore, the show chose to depict Sam as deaf, making the character’s reliance on his brother Henry more pronounced than in the game, thus adding a layer of poignancy to their storyline.
Celebrating the Masterpieces of Both Formats
If you’ve only heard of the game but have yet to play it, opt for the PlayStation 5 or PC version for the ultimate experience. Conversely, if gaming isn’t your forte or you lack the time to engage with gameplay mechanics, the HBO series is currently available for streaming on Max, with Season Two slated for release on April 13, 2025.
This live-action adaptation is crafted by enthusiasts, with input from the creators of the original game, yet the original video game remains the quintessential way to experience the story. Both The Last of Us game and its television adaptation hold significant value, appealing to both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.