Last of Us TV Series VS Video Game: The Differences!

The adaptation of video games into television series has become a trend in the entertainment industry, and one of the most highly anticipated adaptations is "The Last of Us." Developed by Naughty Dog, the video game received critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and immersive world. As the Last of Us TV series follows in its footsteps, fans are eager to see how faithful it remains to the source material. 

In this article, we will delve into the major differences between The Last of Us TV series and the video game episode by episode, uncovering the nuances that make each medium unique.

Episode 1: Shifting Timelines

Last Of Us Video Game: 

The game kicks off on September 26, 2013, with the sudden outbreak hitting Austin, Texas, where Joel resides. Then, after delving into Joel's backstory, the story fast-forwards two decades into the future, landing us squarely in the year 2033. This means that everything that occurred up until September 26, 2013, is considered part of the series' official history.

Last of Us TV Series: 

In the  Last of Us TV series, things kick off on a unique timeline. It all starts with a television report from as far back as 1968, discussing the fungal outbreak. From there, we jump to 2003 and eventually arrive in 2023. While Joel's mission remains a central focus, the historical context undergoes some notable changes.

Joel's Time in the Quarantine Zone 

Last Of Us Video Game: 

In the game, this phase is relatively brief and it doesn't delve much into Joel's connection with Tess or their activities. The most significant alteration involves Robert, the guy Joel and Tess pursue when they discover he's sold weapons meant for them to certain Fireflies. They interrogate him and Tess takes matters into her own hands, ending his life.

Last Of Us TV Series: 

In the TV series, we get a deeper look into Joel's life within the Quarantine Zone including events leading up to the current day. When Joel and Tess attempt to track down Robert, who had sold the car battery they needed for their escape, they discover that Robert has already passed away. This twist of fate ultimately brings them face to face with Marlene.

Spores and Parasites 

Last Of Us Video Game: 

In the video game there's a troublesome airborne form of the virus known as spores. Dealing with these spores presents a significant challenge for both Joel and the players as they struggle to survive. Ellie has a unique ability to breathe in these spores plays a crucial role in convincing Joel of her immunity to the virus.

Last Of Us TV Series: 

On the flip side, the TV series doesn't feature spores, which brings a change in how Ellie's immunity is portrayed. Instead, it introduces parasites as the main culprits behind the virus's transmission giving us a new angle on the outbreak.

Joel's Motivation for Leaving 

Last Of Us Video Game: 

While Marlene plays a role in Joel and Tess's decision to depart the Quarantine Zone, their primary motivation is to retrieve their weapons. Marlene assures them that by safely escorting Ellie to the capitol building, they can regain their firearms from the Fireflies.

Last Of Us TV Series: 

In the TV series, Joel's decision to leave the Quarantine Zone is primarily driven by his quest to reconnect with his long-lost brother Tommy. This new element brings a deeper familial layer to Joel's character shedding light on his personal history and motivations.

Episode 2: Tess's Sacrifice 

Last Of Us Video Game: 

Tess confides in Joel about her infection, solidifying Ellie's immunity as her previous bite has already healed. Upon reaching the capitol building, they make a grim discovery— the Fireflies have been wiped out by the military, leaving them completely surrounded. Knowing her fate, Tess instructs Joel and Ellie to escape and advises him to seek out Tommy, who can help them reconnect with the remaining Fireflies.

With unwavering determination, Tess takes it upon herself to divert the military's attention, buying precious time for Joel and Ellie. She manages to eliminate two soldiers but is fatally shot in the process. Joel witnesses her lifeless body and turns away, carrying the weight of their shared struggles.

Last Of Us TV Series: 

The group reaches the capitol building, only to find that the Fireflies inside have met a grim fate, falling victim to infection. Tess scrambles to devise a backup plan for Ellie's transportation, but Joel, feeling defeated, suggests giving up and heading home. It's in this moment of despair that Tess discloses her own infection, rendering her unable to proceed. As one of the dormant Fireflies reawakens and launches an attack, Joel intervenes, leading to a chain reaction of awakening.

Tess instructs Joel to take Ellie to the safety of Bill and Frank's place, emphasizing the importance of "setting everything right." To buy them time, Tess decides to stay behind and divert attention by utilizing the available gasoline and grenades, ultimately causing a fiery explosion. Amidst the chaos, Tess manages to ignite a spark with her lighter before dropping it, resulting in the building's destruction, all while Joel and Ellie observe from a safe distance.

Episode 3: Bill and Frank's Backstory 

Last Of Us Video Game: 

When we first encounter Bill, he's still among the living, but his partner Frank wasn't as fortunate. Frank succumbed to infection and tragically took his own life before the virus could consume him entirely. This introduction to Bill occurs as Joel and Ellie arrive in Lincoln.

As we delve deeper into their backstory, Bill openly refers to Frank as his "partner." However, we soon uncover the strain in their relationship. Frank grew disillusioned with Bill's methods and attempted to leave, absconding with some of Bill's belongings. Tragically, on his way back to his hideout he fell victim to the infection and chose to end his own life before it could fully consume him.

While searching for supplies in a nearby residence, Joel and Bill stumble upon Frank's lifeless body. Among Frank's possessions, Joel discovers a poignant suicide note. Players have the option to decide whether to share this note with Bill. If they do, Bill's reaction is one of anger and frustration, exclaiming, "So, that's how you feel. Well, screw you too, Frank. You idiot."

In a smuggler's note discovered later, we learn that Frank had attempted to contact someone for assistance in smuggling himself into the Boston Quarantine Zone where he had hoped to find safety. Unfortunately, his journey to reach this haven was destined to end in tragedy.

Last Of Us TV Series: 

Bill and Frank's story goes through a complete overhaul becoming the central focus of the show's third episode. While their initial meeting remains unchanged, they are shown forming a romantic relationship after their initial encounter. Despite the occasional arguments and frustrations that all couples face they remain together for many years, even into their old age.

Tragically, Frank falls victim to an incurable disease and he makes a heartfelt request to Bill. He asks for one last day of happiness, which includes a marriage ceremony to celebrate their love. Afterward, Frank asks Bill to assist him in ending his life using some available pills. In a poignant twist, Bill, who had always seen his purpose in life as keeping Frank safe, decides that he cannot bear to live without him. Thus, he chooses to join Frank in death.

Weeks later, Joel and Ellie stumble upon them during a stop in Lincoln for supplies and a truck. This discovery becomes a significant moment in their journey, propelling them forward as they continue their quest to locate Tommy and deliver Ellie to the Fireflies.

It’s a Wrap! 

"The Last of Us" TV show has managed to capture the essence of the beloved video game while introducing distinctive changes that breathe new life into the story. These differences enrich the viewing experience for both longtime fans and newcomers, making the adaptation a compelling journey of its own. As the series unfolds, fans can look forward to exploring more nuances and surprises in this post-apocalyptic world. Whether you're a gaming veteran or a fresh face, the TV show promises to deliver a gripping narrative filled with tension, emotion, and unforgettable characters.

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