Overview of The Last of Us Release History
The Last of Us first reached players in 2013 as a PlayStation 3 exclusive, establishing a benchmark for narrative-driven action games. Since then, the series has expanded across platforms, generations, and formats, including remasters and new story extensions. Understanding the full timeline of The Last of Us release windows helps players contextualize each entry, plan playthroughs, and follow the series’ ongoing evolution across PlayStation and PC ecosystems.
Primary Entries in The Last of Us Series
The Last of Us (2013)
The debut title launched as a PlayStation 3 exclusive in late 2013, delivering a grounded survival-action experience that redefined emotional storytelling in games. Its release marked a turning point for the medium, combining strong writing and environmental design to create a lasting impact.
The Last of Us Part II (2020)
Five years later, Part II arrived on PlayStation 4, expanding the universe with refined combat, deeper character exploration, and a broader scope. Its release generated significant discussion around narrative choices, representation, and the boundaries of interactive drama.
The Last of Us Part I (2022)
Launched first on PlayStation 5, this remake of the original brought modern visuals, updated mechanics, and accessibility improvements to a new audience. Its release demonstrated how remasters can preserve legacy while embracing next-gen capabilities.
Key Release Windows and Platform Details
Each main installment reached players through staggered launches across years and hardware cycles. Some entries arrived as timed or permanent platform exclusives, while others eventually reached PC, broadening long-term accessibility. The following table summarizes core release attributes for quick reference.
Release Timeline Table
| Title | Initial Release Date | Original Platform(s) | Subsequent Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Last of Us | June 14, 2013 | PlayStation 3 | PlayStation 4, PC |
| The Last of Us Part II | June 19, 2020 | PlayStation 4 | PlayStation 5, PC |
| The Last of Us Part I | September 2, 2022 | PlayStation 5 | PC |
Re-releases, Remasters, and Cross-Generation Availability
As the series matured, Sony expanded access through cross-gen bundles and upgrades. Players on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 can often access related titles through ownership on either platform, depending on licensing. On PC, the franchise is available via the PlayStation Store on Windows and through certain game storefronts, with regional availability varying by title.
The Last of Us: Left Behind and Other Spin-offs
Released as a Day One story for PlayStation 3 owners, Left Behind extends the original’s narrative with new gameplay segments and emotional beats. While not a mainline sequel, it remains an important part of the series’ overall arc and is frequently referenced in broader discussions of the franchise’s release landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which The Last of Us game came first?
- Are all main games available on PC?
- Can PlayStation 4 players play Part II if they own Part I?
- Is The Last of Us Part I a full remake or an upgrade?
- Will there be future mainline The Last of Us releases?
The original The Last of Us launched in 2013, predating all other main entries.
Yes, each mainline title is available on PC, though platform and regional availability may vary.
Ownership rules vary by region and platform; cross-gen access depends on whether you purchased a PS5 or PS4 version and your licensing status.
Part I is a ground-up remake built on a new engine, rather than a visual polish alone.
No official announcements have been made regarding additional numbered entries as of now.
Regional Release Considerations
Launch dates and platform availability can differ by region due to localization, certification, and distribution logistics. Players in some markets may encounter delays or staggered platform rollouts, particularly during the transition between console generations. Checking local storefronts remains the best way to confirm current availability.