Is The Last of Us Season 2 Better Than the Game? Here’s What Critics Say

Spoiler Warning: This post discusses key plot points from The Last of Us Season 2. Proceed with caution if you haven’t watched!

Introduction

Hey, fans! The Last of Us Season 2 dropped on HBO on April 13, 2025, and it’s got everyone talking. Based on the hit video game The Last of Us Part II, this season dives into a gritty story of revenge and loss, starring Pedro Pascal as Joel and Bella Ramsey as Ellie. But the big question is: does the show beat the game? Critics have mixed feelings, praising its visual storytelling and emotional depth but debating if it matches the game’s raw impact. Let’s dig into what critics reviews say and see if The Last of Us Season 2 comes out on top!

What Critics Love

Critics are loving a lot about The Last of Us Season 2, especially how it stays true to The Last of Us Part II while adding its own flair. Here’s what stands out:

• Faithful Adaptation: The show follows the game’s core story, like Ellie’s quest for revenge after a shocking event. TheWrap calls it a “faithful yet reflective adaptation,” giving Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey space to shine.

• Stunning Visuals: From zombie-filled cities to snowy Wyoming, the visual storytelling is top-notch. Newsweek says the cinematography captures the game’s gritty vibe perfectly.

• Powerful Performances: Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey bring emotional depth to Joel and Ellie, while newcomers like Isabela Merced (Dina) add heart.

• New Additions: The show expands on characters like Jeffrey Wright’s Isaac, giving them more depth than in the game, which critics appreciate.

With a 93% Certified Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s clear The Last of Us Season 2 nails the video game adaptation for many.

Where It Falls Short

Not everyone’s sold. Some critics point out flaws that keep The Last of Us Season 2 from topping The Last of Us Part II:

• Incomplete Story: Unlike the game’s full narrative, Season 2 only covers part of the story, leaving some subplots unresolved. IGN notes pacing issues, like a flashback episode that slows momentum (IGN).

• Less Bold Choices: The game took big risks with its story, but Kotaku says the show feels “scared” to go as far, making it less daring (Kotaku).

• Emotional Impact: TIME calls Season 2 “inferior” to Season 1, arguing its focus on justice doesn’t hit as hard as the game’s raw emotions (TIME).

• Not Groundbreaking: The New York Times says the show is polished but doesn’t “transcend” the zombie genre like the game did (NY Times).

These critiques suggest The Last of Us Season 2 is strong but might not outshine the game’s depth or boldness.

IMDb Rating and Fan Reactions

While an overall IMDb rating for Season 2 isn’t listed, Episode 2, “Through the Valley,” has a jaw-dropping 9.5/10 based on 13,000 reviews, making it the highest-rated episode in the series. This episode’s emotional depth has fans raving, though some review bombing on Rotten Tomatoes (53% audience score) shows mixed feelings about changes from the game. The IMDb rating proves The Last of Us Season 2 can deliver standout moments, even if not everyone agrees it beats The Last of Us Part II.

How The Last of Us Season 2 Compares to the Game

So, is The Last of Us Season 2 better than the game? Let’s break it down:

• Story and Fidelity: The show sticks close to The Last of Us Part II, adapting key events like Ellie’s revenge arc. Newsweek praises its fidelity to the game, but Kotaku says it avoids the game’s tougher choices, diluting its impact (Newsweek; Kotaku).

• Emotional Depth: The game’s narrative, with an 8.8/10 IMDb rating, dives deep into revenge and forgiveness (IMDb). Season 2’s emotional depth is praised, especially in Episode 2 (9.5/10 on IMDb), but TIME and IGN note it doesn’t always match the game’s intensity.

• Pacing and Completeness: The game offers a complete story, while Season 2 covers only part of The Last of Us Part II, leading to critiques of pacing and unresolved subplots. ScreenRant suggests the show’s slower pacing avoids the game’s rushed narrative, potentially improving it.

• Visuals and Acting: Season 2’s visual storytelling and performances by Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey are universally acclaimed, with critics noting superior production values compared to the game’s already high standards (Rotten Tomatoes). The game’s interactivity, though, adds immersion the show can’t match.

Critics seem split: the show’s a great video game adaptation, but the game’s full story and bold risks give it an edge for some.

Why This Matters for Fans

Whether you’re a gamer or a show watcher, The Last of Us Season 2 offers something special. Critics reviews show it’s a must-see for its emotional depth and visual storytelling, even if it doesn’t always top The Last of Us Part II. The IMDb rating of 9.5/10 for Episode 2 proves it can deliver unforgettable moments. For aspiring artists or storytellers, the show’s cinematic adaptation is a lesson in bringing games to life. If you’re curious about other great adaptations, check out our post on Best Animation Films for Aspiring Artists for more inspiration!

What’s Next for The Last of Us Season 2

With only part of The Last of Us Part II covered, The Last of Us Season 2 sets up a likely Season 3 to finish the story. Critics hint at more intense episodes ahead, building on Episode 2’s success. Fans are buzzing about how the show will handle the game’s later twists, especially after the IMDb rating shows strong support. For now, The Last of Us Season 2 is a solid video game adaptation, but The Last of Us Part II might still hold the crown for its complete, daring narrative.

Conclusion

So, is The Last of Us Season 2 better than the game? Critics reviews paint a mixed picture. With a 93% Rotten Tomatoes score and a 9.5/10 IMDb rating for Episode 2, the show nails visual storytelling, Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey’s performances, and fidelity to the game. But its incomplete story and safer choices mean it doesn’t always outshine The Last of Us Part II’s bold, full arc. Whether you’re Team Show or Team Game, The Last of Us Season 2 is worth watching. Want more on great adaptations? Dive into our post on Best Animation Films for Aspiring Artists!