The Last of Us and the Power of Video Games
The Last of Us and the Power of Video Games
The Last of Us and the Power of Video Games
Peter Sagal
April, 12, 2025
Summary
HBO’s The Last of Us successfully translates the emotional depth of its video game counterpart through faithful recreation of key scenes and a focus on character-driven storytelling. Co-creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin preserve the game's raw intensity—such as Joel falling down an elevator shaft—while expanding the world with compelling narrative sideplots like the same-sex romance in “Long, Long Time”. Season 2, rooted in the sequel’s darker themes of trauma and revenge, brings Ellie’s internal struggles and conflict with Abby to television. The piece demonstrates how the series elevates gaming to the realm of high art.
Reference
Sagal, P. (2025, April 12). The Last of Us and the power of video games. The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/04/tv-adaptation-video-games/682326/