For a first playthrough, play The Last of Us Part I, then Left Behind, then The Last of Us Part II. Left Behind is set partly before Part I, but PlayStation warns that it contains spoilers for Part I’s main story, so its chronological placement is not the best reason to play it first.
Recommended order for a first playthrough
- The Last of Us Part I: Play the main single-player story first. This remake establishes the central story and characters.
- The Last of Us: Left Behind: Play the included chapter after Part I’s main story. It explores Ellie and Riley’s backstory, while also revealing information that can spoil Part I.
- The Last of Us Part II: Continue with the sequel. PlayStation says it was designed as a standalone, complete story, but some details, characters, and themes have more meaning after Part I. PlayStation’s franchise FAQ recommends this sequence.
Why Left Behind comes after Part I
Left Behind is a prequel chapter: some of its events take place before the main story of Part I. But starting with it would mean encountering material that PlayStation says spoils that story. For a first playthrough, finish Part I’s main single-player story before opening Left Behind. PlayStation’s Part I page confirms that all editions of Part I include the chapter.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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The Last of Us Part I – PlayStation 5 | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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The Last of Us: Escape the Dark Board Game | $72.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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The Last of Us Remastered Hits - PlayStation 4 | $19.93 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
![PS4 THE LAST OF US REMASTERED (US) [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51O7ojkZu4L._SL160_.jpg)
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PS4 THE LAST OF US REMASTERED (US) [video game] | $21.88 | Buy on Amazon |
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Which editions do you need?
You do not need to buy both the original release and the remake to follow the story. PlayStation describes Part I as a ground-up remake, and its editions include Left Behind. The main-story sequence still has three entries: Part I, Left Behind, and Part II.
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Part II Remastered is an edition of Part II, not another chapter to insert between Left Behind and the sequel. PlayStation lists Part I for PS5 and PC, Part II for PS4, and Part II Remastered for PS5 and PC; its Complete collection brings together definitive editions of the two main stories. Platform and collection listings can vary by region and change, so check the current local store page for the edition’s contents and availability.
#1 Best Overall
- Enhanced visuals: Completely rebuilt from the ground up using Naughty Dog’s latest PS5 engine technology to improve every visual detail, The Last of Us experience has been faithfully enhanced with more realistic lighting and atmosphere, more intricate environments and creative reimaginings of familiar spaces.
- Fast loading: Initial loading times are near instant, and seamless after the first instance thanks to the PS5 console’s SSD – so you can pick up where you left off in the story and load specific encounters and chapters more quickly.
- Haptic feedback: DualSense wireless controller haptic feedback support for every weapon elevates combat encounters, and environments are brought to life through DualSense wireless controller haptic sensations of subtle falling rain, the crunch of stepping on snow and more.
- Adaptive triggers: All The Last of Us iconic weapons, including Joel’s revolver and Ellie’s bow, now deliver dynamic DualSense wireless controller trigger resistance and kickback on firing for deeper combat immersion.
- 3D Audio: Designed to make use of the PS5 console’s Tempest 3D AudioTech, Naughty Dog’s newly upgraded audio engine delivers richer soundscapes, bigger explosive moments and more visceral gameplay through compatible stereo headphones (analogue or USB) or TV speakers.
If you own a PS3 or PS4 version of the original game, do not assume it upgrades to the PS5 remake: PlayStation says there is no upgrade path from those versions to Part I.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Can you skip Part I or Left Behind?
Part II can be played as a standalone story, according to PlayStation. However, the publisher says some of its narrative details, characters, and themes have deeper meaning if you start with Part I. Left Behind is a backstory chapter rather than a prerequisite for understanding the basic sequence; it is included with every edition of Part I and fits best after that game’s main story.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- 20 years after a pandemic has radically changed known civilization, infected humans run wild and survivors are killing each other for food, weapons; Whatever they can get their hands on
- Explore a brutal post pandemic world, fully realized with the power of PlayStation 4 system
- Delve into Ellie’s past in left ehind, the single player prequel chapter
- Eight new multiplayer maps in the abandoned and reclaimed territories packs
Rank #2
- BASED ON AWARD-WINNING FRANCHISES: Experience the treacherous world of The Last of Us, now a major HBO TV series and a beloved video game from Naughty Dog, in an immersive board game format.
- RICH, NARRATIVE GAMEPLAY: Join iconic characters like Joel and Ellie on a harrowing journey from a Quarantine Zone to Jackson, navigating through iconic locations filled with challenges.
- DYNAMIC CHALLENGE SYSTEM: Powered by the latest evolution of the Escape the Dark system, featuring large, narrative-rich chapter cards that introduce complex scenarios including encounters with FEDRA agents, hunters, and the infected.
- STRATEGIC DECISION-MAKING: Survival hinges on crafting and weapon upgrades directly inspired by the video game’s mechanics, requiring players to make strategic use of dice and item cards.
- COLLECTOR'S ITEM: A must-have for fans with high-quality components and detailed artwork that bring the hauntingly beautiful atmosphere of The Last of Us to life. Ideal for 1-5 players, offering 60-90 minutes of engaging gameplay per session.
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