The Seraphites aren’t simply cultists—Episode 3 covertly lays the groundwork for Season 3’s largest twist.
The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 3 takes us deep into the frightening realm of the Seraphites, a violent religious cult that is a central part of The Last of Us Part II. But this episode isn’t all about brutality—it conceals hidden hints at Ellie’s destiny, Abby’s past, and the dark trajectory of the entire season.
If you’ve played the game, you already know how important the Seraphites are. But HBO’s adaptation adds fresh depth to their tale, making them even more sinister—and enigmatic.
In This Breakdown:
✔ Who the Seraphites actually are (and how the series alters their backstory)
✔ The biggest surprises (Abby’s battle, Ellie’s PTSD, and secret details)
✔ Major foreshadowing (how Episode 3 hints at The Last of Us Part II‘s climax)
✔ Fan theories & reactions (was this the best episode yet?)
Who Are the Seraphites? (Game vs. Show Differences)
The Seraphites (called “Scars” by the WLF) are a zealous cult devoted to a slain prophet. In the game, they’re brutal killers—but the show expands their lore in terrifying ways.
Key Differences in the HBO Series:
🔸 More Religious Symbolism – The show adds eerie chants, rituals, and a “martyr’s blessing” scene not in the game.
🔸 Prophet’s Tapes – Episode 3 reveals a recording of the Seraphite Prophet, hinting at her true motives.
🔸 Less “Mindless Violence” – Unlike the game, they feel like a real cult with beliefs, not just enemies to kill.
Why It Matters: The changes make them scarier—their faith isn’t just an excuse for violence, but a twisted reflection of hope in the apocalypse.
Key Scene Breakdowns
1. Abby’s Brutal Fight Scene
The episode opens with Abby ambushed by Seraphites in the woods. This fight is longer than in the game, showing:
✔ Her raw survival instinct (uses teeth, rocks)
✔ A major injury (foreshadows her later weakness)
✔ Seraphite tactics (silent fighters who use whistles)
Hidden Detail: One whispers “She’s the one” before dying—do they know about her past?
2. Ellie’s PTSD Flashbacks
While Abby fights, Ellie has haunting visions of Joel (not in the game), revealing:
✔ Guilt over his death (blames herself)
✔ Growing rage (becoming Part II’s revenge-driven Ellie)
✔ Foreshadowing – Joel’s broken watch = symbol of lost time
3. The Prophet’s Tape (Biggest Mystery)
A chilling recording of the Seraphite Prophet says:
“The world doesn’t end with fire or plague… it ends when we lose our souls.”
Fan Theory: Did she predict Cordyceps? Or was she killed for knowing too much?
Foreshadowing & Theories
This episode sets up Part II’s darkest moments:
✔ Abby’s wound = weakness in final battle
✔ Ellie’s visions = mirror Part II’s ending
✔ Seraphite whistles = future trap for Ellie
Biggest Theory: Prophet’s tapes hint at a third faction in Season 3.
Fan Reactions & Easter Eggs
Twitter exploded after this episode:
🔥 “Seraphites are even scarier in the show!”
💔 “Ellie’s flashbacks destroyed me.”
🤯 “That Prophet tape changes EVERYTHING.”
Hidden Easter Eggs:
🔹 Joel’s Jacket – Ellie wears it in a flashback (like Part II)
🔹 Abby’s Knife – Same one she uses later
🔹 WLF Logos – FEDRA documents hint at their growing power
Final Verdict: Is This the Best Episode Yet?
The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 3 deepens the game’s story without losing its soul. The Seraphites feel real, Ellie’s pain is raw, and the foreshadowing is genius.
Rating: 9.5/10 – Near-perfect mix of horror, emotion, and secrets.
What’s Next?
Will Ellie’s revenge destroy her? Will Abby’s past catch up? Who was the Prophet?
Comment Below: What shocked you most in this episode?
Leave a Reply