The Last of Us Part 2: Concept

Five years after their dangerous journey across the post-pandemic United States, Ellie and Joel have settled down in Jackson, Wyoming. Living amongst a thriving community of survivors has allowed them peace and stability, despite the constant threat of the infected and other, more desperate survivors. When a violent event disrupts that peace, Ellie embarks on a relentless journey to carry out justice and find closure. As she hunts those responsible one by one, she is confronted with the devastating physical and emotional repercussions of her actions.

The Last of Us: Part Two is a poignant and thrilling action-adventure game that was developed by Naughty Dog. Part two continues Ellie’s story in the post-apocalyptic world, taken over by cordyceps but five years have passed since the first game and in this dual narrative we are introduced to Abby whose past is entwined with Ellie. Both have grown up in the devastating world and with it, their thirst for revenge intensified with each experience and loss.

 Adapting such a beloved game into a series is no easy task, but HBO had almost flawlessly adapted The Last of Us Part I. Given that The Last of Us Part II is roughly five to ten hours longer than the original game, it would make much more sense to split the adaptation into two seasons and below is what we think could happen. Fans of the game will know that Part II isn’t a linear game, adding the shifting perspective of the main characters would make adapting the game more difficult than the first season. Instead of shifting perspectives halfway through a possible nine episodes, having Ellie and Abby’s story running alongside each other might be a bit more beneficial to TV audiences. 

 In a similar way that the TV series opened with Sarah having a normal day, opening season two on younger Abby’s day out with her father in the infected world could prove more favorable. It will allow audiences to see the repercussions of Joel’s choice from the point of view of a daughter losing her father, instead of the father figure choosing to save the life of his daughter instead of the whole world. Ending the first episode with the death of Jerry Anderson in similar thematic styles of Sarah’s death. It could emphasize the loss for Abby but create that feeling for the audience who may see Jerry in a similar vein to Joel, both men fighting for their daughter.

 Instead of doing the non-linear moments (such as Joel and Ellie at the museum) which would be sadly missed, it would leave room for more impactful moments of the game. Ellie’s time at Jackson could start at the dance, like a trailer for the second game showcased. As well as introducing Ellie and Dana’s relationship, whispers of Firefly survivors could start to creep in, or at least people seeking out the light. The Fireflies, although practically extinct or absorbed in the WLF, could still loom over the characters- especially Ellie and the impact of the first game and series has over her could be explored more.

As for the season finale, the episode could focus on Ellie and Dina’s life with little JJ. All is calm and well until Tommy shows up, informing Ellie that he has a lead on Abby. Perhaps the season could even end with the introduction of The Rattler’s. Unfortunately, the Rattlers weren’t utilized as much in the game as they could have been, so expanding on them in a possible third season could lead to much more development of the world beyond the Jackson or the new Washington Liberation Front. And if Naughty Dog ever decides to do a Part 3, the Rattler’s could be an interesting villain to look into if they decide to continue Abby or Ellie’s story.