HBO’s The Last Of Us Could Have A Big Problem With Its Ending

HBO’s The Last of Us has successfully brought one of gaming’s most beloved narratives to life, delivering a deeply emotional and visually stunning adaptation. From the harrowing prologue to the heartbreaking moments that define Joel and Ellie’s journey, HBO’s version of The Last of Us has largely stayed true to the original story while making minor adjustments to enhance character depth and pacing. However, as the series inches closer to its conclusion, it faces a significant challenge: how to handle an ending that was divisive among gamers and may not align with casual viewers’ expectations.

For those unfamiliar with the video game, The Last of Us is not a traditional post-apocalyptic story about finding a cure or saving humanity. Instead, it’s a deeply personal tale about love, trauma, and the cost of survival. The game’s ending subverts expectations, making a bold statement about selfishness and moral ambiguity rather than providing a satisfying resolution. As the show gains a broader audience—including many who have never played the game—HBO will need to decide whether to remain fully committed to this ending or alter it in a way that might be more palatable for television audiences.

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A Cure Is Not the Answer The Last Of Us Viewers May Be Expecting

From the moment The Last of Us begins, the central conflict revolves around a world ravaged by the Cordyceps infection. Ellie, the only known immune person, becomes a beacon of hope for many, especially the Fireflies, who believe she holds the key to reversing the catastrophe. However, the story ultimately reveals that curing the infection is neither the focus nor the point. Instead, the narrative centers on the relationship between Joel and Ellie, and how Joel’s love for Ellie leads him to make a devastating choice: saving her at the expense of humanity’s last hope.

Gamers who played through the 2013 title understood this gut-punch of an ending, even if it left them conflicted. And if they were conflicted over The Last of Us, then there were definitely people angered over how TLOU 2 finished the story. However, television audiences—especially those expecting a more traditional hero’s journey—may find themselves dissatisfied with the lack of closure. Many post-apocalyptic shows revolve around the idea of hope and rebuilding, but The Last of Us rejects this notion, emphasizing personal bonds over grand ideals. If HBO follows the game’s ending faithfully, some viewers may be left wanting, wondering why the story ultimately turns away from “saving the world.”

The Challenge of Adapting The Last of Us Part 2

While the first game’s ending was controversial in its own right, the real challenge lies in adapting The Last of Us Part 2. The sequel took an even bolder approach to storytelling, forcing players into the perspective of Abby, the daughter of the Firefly surgeon that Joel killed in the hospital. The game’s story revolves around a brutal cycle of revenge, making it clear that vengeance consumes those who pursue it. Many fans appreciated the ambitious narrative, while others resented being forced to sympathize with a character who, in their eyes, was positioned as the villain.

This presents an enormous risk for the HBO adaptation. The divisive nature of the second game means that audiences who are not familiar with its structure might reject its core themes. Some viewers might expect a straightforward continuation of Joel and Ellie’s journey, only to be confronted with an entirely different narrative perspective. If the show faithfully follows the game, it will almost certainly alienate a portion of its audience.

The Backlash of Staying True To The Last Of Us Videogames (or Changing Course)

HBO’s The Last of Us has already made changes to the story, some subtle and others more substantial. Episode three’s deep dive into Bill and Frank’s relationship was an emotional expansion that wasn’t present in the game, while other elements, like Kathleen’s storyline in Kansas City, added new dimensions to the world. These changes have largely been well-received, proving that deviations can work if they remain true to the spirit of the original material. However, when it comes to the ending, any alterations—whether small or large—will be met with intense scrutiny.

The creators have insisted that they intend to follow the games closely, but when push comes to shove, will they risk alienating a large chunk of their audience for the sake of remaining faithful? The pressure from both sides will be immense, and whatever decision they make, it’s almost certain to spark debate.

HBO’s The Last of Us has been one of the most faithful and well-received video game adaptations to date, but the biggest challenge still lies ahead. The show’s conclusion, and the direction it takes moving forward, could determine whether it remains a critical and commercial success or becomes another adaptation that falters under audience expectations. Sticking to the game’s ending would ensure narrative integrity but could frustrate casual viewers. Changing the ending might make for a more universally satisfying conclusion but could alienate dedicated fans who want the story told as it was originally intended.

The Last Of Us

Release Date

January 15, 2023

Network

HBO Max

Showrunner

Craig Mazin

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  Bella Ramsey

  Ellie Williams

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