The HBO series The last of us has won millions since its premiere in 2023 by faithfully adapting the Naughty Dog video game, but what story will they continue to adapt after season two?
Is the end closer than expected?
Recently, Naughty Dog surprised by announcing Intergalactic: The Heretical Propheta new science fiction game, instead of the planned third part The last of us. This revelation has left fans wondering if the creative team is moving away from the saga for good. Yes Part III is not in development, the series may end with the adaptation of Part II in season three, offering logical and emotional closure to both Joel and Ellie’s story and the television universe.
An interesting possibility is that Neil Druckmann, co-creator of the video game, uses the series as a platform to continue the story instead of waiting for a third game. This would allow new narrative paths to be explored without the restrictions of adapting existing material. This approach, however, is not without risks: the gaming community could reject a television story before testing it on the controls, recalling the controversial outcome of game of Thrones.
Despite these concerns, Druckmann could ensure quality by remaining involved as lead writer, minimizing mistakes made by other TV universes in surpassing the source material.
What if the future was in spin-offs?
The universe of The last of us offers endless possibilities to expand with parallel stories. I like the characters Bill and Frank, Tommy and Mariaor even the antagonists, like Davidthey could star in their own series. HBO has already demonstrated with the episode “Long, Long Time” that intimate stories of the apocalypse resonate deeply with audiences.
This strategy would not be new. The walking dead has kept its franchise alive for years with spin-offs focusing on supporting characters and alternate storylines. However, to avoid saturation errors like those of The Walking Dead: The World BeyondHBO must ensure that each project carries its own narrative weight.
Strategic pause
Another option would be to put the series on hold until Naughty Dog develops a viable one Part III. While this wait could last a decade or more, it would allow fans to experience the sequel in video game format sooner. Furthermore, a time leap in history, as already happened between Part I Yes Part IIit would fit in perfectly with a long break.
This strategy, while logical, could dampen enthusiasm for the franchise, especially if there’s no additional content to keep fans engaged.
Do Joel and Ellie have more stories to tell?
While The last of us has been praised for its deep and emotional storytelling, its success lies largely in the relationship between Joel and Elliecharacters that resonated with players and viewers alike. Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, represents the tougher and more protective side, while Ellie, played by Bella Ramsey, symbolizes hope and the struggle to find humanity in a devastated world. The evolution of their bond during the first season solidified the emotional impact of the series.
Compared to other similar post-apocalyptic universes The walking dead, The last of us stands out for having focused on personal relationshipsleaving the clashes with the infected in the background. This difference is crucial to maintaining audience interest for possible continuations. Whether it’s spin-offs or new seasons, the emotional weight of Joel and Ellie will be difficult to overcome.
The definitive end or a new beginning?
The final decision on the future of The last of us It will depend on HBO and Druckmann. If the series ends after the adaptation Part IIcould secure a place among the great television dramas, avoiding unnecessarily lengthening its story. But if you choose to expand through spin-offs or continue beyond video games, you’ll need to do so carefully so as not to dilute the essence that made it so special.
For now, fans can only speculate as they eagerly await season 2 in 2025. The only thing that’s clear is that, whatever happens, The last of us has left an indelible mark on both video games and television.