The Last of Us release schedule spans multiple platforms and formats, reflecting a long-term portfolio strategy from Naughty Dog and PlayStation. This overview clarifies launch timelines for the base game, the PS5 remake (The Last of Us Part I), the prequel (The Last of Us Part II), the companion story (Left Behind), and announced future titles. We focus on verified dates, platform availability, and how each release fits into the broader franchise roadmap, providing a reliable reference for players and creators.
Key Releases and Dates
Below is a concise summary of confirmed launch windows, formats, and platform details for The Last of Us portfolio. These represent the core entries and major companion pieces available to players today and in the near term.
| Title | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| The Last of Us (2013) | June 14, 2013 (PS3) | Platform certification, publisher |
| The Last of Us: Left Behind | February 18, 2014 (PS3) | Platform certification, publisher |
| The Last of Us Part II | June 19, 2020 (PS4) | Platform certification, publisher |
| The Last of Us Part I (PS5 remake) | September 2, 2022 (PS5) | Platform certification, publisher |
| The Last of Us Part I (Windows) | March 28, 2023 (PC) | Platform certification, publisher |
| The Last of Us Remastered (PS5 bundle) | December 6, 2022 (PS5) | Platform certification, publisher |
The Last of Us (2013)
The original The Last of Us established the franchise with a grounded, character-driven survival narrative. Released on June 14, 2013 on PlayStation 3, it set a new bar for environmental storytelling and tactical combat. The game was re-released under the PlayStation Plus catalog and later remastered as part of The Last of Us Part I on PS5, demonstrating its lasting design influence.
Left Behind (2014)
Launched on February 18, 2014 as a PlayStation 3 exclusive, Left Behind expands Ellie’s story between key moments in the base game. It functions both as narrative enrichment and standalone content, offering additional context for the relationship dynamics that define the series.
The Last of Us Part II (2020)
Released on June 19, 2020 on PlayStation 4, Part II delivers a broader, more cinematic experience with advanced traversal, upgraded combat, and a dual-perspective structure. PlayStation 5 owners can access it via backward compatibility, while a native PS5 version with improved visuals and DualSense features was included as part of The Last of Us Part I bundle.
The Last of Us Part I (2022)
Part I represents a rebuilt version of the original game for current-gen systems. Its September 2, 2022 PS5 launch marked a significant technical refresh, with enhanced graphics, upgraded animations, and modernized mechanics. On March 28, 2023 it expanded to Windows through the PlayStation Store and Steam, extending the franchise to PC audiences.
Remastered Bundle
The standalone Remastered edition launched alongside Part I, bundling the refreshed original with upgraded visuals and performance options for PS5 owners. This reinforced the value of the base experience while introducing it to a new generation of players.
Future of The Last of Us
Moving beyond established releases, the schedule includes announced multiplatform projects intended to broaden the franchise. While specifics on story, scope, and platforms remain subject to official confirmation, these entries signal continued investment in the universe beyond the existing catalog.
- The Last of Us Part I remaster sets a baseline for visual and technical upgrades across the series.
- The Last of Us Part II remains a centerpiece PS4-era achievement with ongoing community engagement.
- Announced future titles indicate expansion into new gameplay contexts and platforms, subject to developer updates.
Platform and Timing Considerations
Release timing has consistently aligned with major hardware cycles, leveraging PS4 and PS5 launches to maximize impact. Cross-play and cross-save implementations remain limited primarily to PC and console platforms that support shared ecosystems. Players should verify regional availability and storefront-specific bonuses, which can vary by territory and retailer.
Summary
The Last of Us release schedule reflects a deliberate cadence, balancing legacy content refreshes with new narrative and technical experiments. From the original 2013 debut to upcoming multiplatform projects, each entry serves to deepen the world and strengthen the emotional core of the franchise. By focusing on verified dates and transparent context, players can plan their engagement and creators can reference an accurate timeline.