Rated: MA15+
My Rating: 9.5/10
I’ve got to be honest The Last of Us Part II is my favourite video game of all time. Always has been. I know it cops a lot of hate online, but I’ve always thought the story it told was gutsy, emotional, and beautifully done. So when Season 2 of the show dropped, I was equal parts excited and nervous. Thankfully, the first episode absolutely delivers.
Right from the get-go, the world of The Last of Us feels heavier. There’s this quiet tension hanging over everything, and you can just tell things are going to unravel in a big way — just like in the game. But the show does something really special here: it doesn’t just rehash the story. It expands on it. Gives it more space to breathe. And as a fan, that’s just awesome to see.
Bella Ramsey is once again brilliant as Ellie. There’s something raw and honest in her performance the way she carries both strength and uncertainty feels so true to the character. And Pedro Pascal… well, it’s always a treat to see him back as Joel. He doesn’t even have to say much — his presence alone hits you right in the guts, especially knowing what’s coming.
We also get introduced to Isabela Merced as Dina, and I’ve got to say — she’s spot on. Seriously, she looks and feels like she stepped right out of the game. The chemistry between her and Ellie is already showing sparks, and I’m so excited to see where that goes.
What really blew me away, though, were those scene recreations. There are moments in this episode that are lifted straight out of the game, shot for shot and I had goosebumps watching them. As someone who’s played through this story more times than I can count, it was surreal in the best possible way.
And then there’s Kaitlyn Dever as Abby. Look, I know that name still causes controversy in the fandom, but her introduction here is strong. She’s intense, guarded, and already feels like a perfect fit for what’s coming. Dever really nails the weight of the character. I’m equal parts scared and curious to see how they handle her arc, especially knowing how crucial she is to the heart of this story.
Visually, the show continues to be stunning grim but gorgeous, with the kind of detail that makes you feel like you're right there in that post-apocalyptic world. The snow-covered landscapes, the quiet moments, the sound design it’s all pitch-perfect.
This first episode isn’t trying to shock or go big too early. It’s careful, considered, and full of emotional weight. You can tell the team behind it really love the game and want to do it justice. As a fan, that means the world.
As far as season openers go, this one’s a beauty. It’s emotional, atmospheric, and packed with subtle nods that fans of the game will pick up on straight away. But it also stands strong on its own for those coming in fresh. Honestly, I couldn't ask for a better start to a story I care so much about and that’s why I rate it a 9.5/10
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Have a watch of our experience at the premiere: