Is the second season of The Last of Us identical to the video game? We tell you some of the differences

After two years of waiting, the second season of The Last of Us has made its debut, bringing back the iconic characters Joel and Ellie. The series, created by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, has chosen to make significant modifications to the original game’s timeline to maximize its emotional impact. This approach has generated various expectations among the franchise’s followers.

Series VS Video Game

The first episode introduces new characters, including Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever, who does not appear at the beginning of the game. The changes in the narrative not only affect the timeline but also the dynamics between the characters. For example, Ellie already has the guitar at the beginning of the season, unlike the game’s story, where Joel gives it to her later. This scene is expected to be seen in a flashback in future episodes.

Additionally, the series delves into the mental health struggles that Joel faces, depicted during one of his visits to a therapist in Jackson, an aspect that was not addressed in the game. This choice reflects the need to explore the emotional trauma of the protagonists in a post-apocalyptic world.

The episode also shows intimate moments between Ellie and Dina, with changes in the context that offer a new perspective on their relationship. The series has made bold decisions in its adaptation, such as setting the events in 2028, three years before the game’s plots that occur in 2033 and 2038. These modifications invite viewers to reconsider the original narrative and its emotional development.