Original PlayStation 3 Release
The Last of Us launched as a PlayStation 3 exclusive in 2013. In North America and Europe, the primary release occurred in late June, with additional regions following in July. This section summarizes the verified regional launch windows and what to expect from the original build.
North America and Europe
In key markets, the game reached retail and digital storefronts in late June 2013. Major retailers and PlayStation Store listed June 14, 2013, as the effective date for most territories, supported by retailer listings and press materials.
Other Regions
Players in Australia, Japan, and parts of Asia saw releases in late June through July 2013. Regional localization, certification, and distribution logistics created small windows between major launches, which is typical for multi-region PlayStation releases.
The Last of Us Remastered
A remastered version of the original was released on PlayStation 4, bringing updated visuals, performance improvements, and additional content. This section focuses on the definitive timeline for the remaster across different territories and platforms.
Initial Release
The Last of Us Remastered debuted in July 2014 on PlayStation 4. North American and European audiences received the title on July 11, 2014, with other regions launching shortly afterward in July and August 2014.
Subsequent Availability
Following the initial PlayStation 4 launch, the remaster became a standard offering on newer PlayStation hardware. It remained available as a digital title and physical release, often included in bundles alongside The Last of Us Part II and later collections.
The Last of Us Part II Release
The Last of Us Part II launched in June 2020 on PlayStation 4, with staggered dates across regions informed by localization, certification, and global logistics. This section outlines the confirmed windows for the initial rollout and subsequent availability.
Primary Launch Regions
Key territories, including North America and much of Europe, received the game on June 19, 2020. Digital and retail SKUs launched concurrently where platform certification allowed.
Extended Rollout
Regions such as Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Asia launched in late June 2020, while Japan and additional Asian territories followed in late June to early July 2020, reflecting typical regional approval and localization timelines.
Comparison Table: Original, Remaster, and Part II Dates
| Title | Region | Original Release Date | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Last of Us | North America, Europe | June 14, 2013 | PlayStation 3 |
| The Last of Us | Australia, Japan, Asia | June–July 2013 | PlayStation 3 |
| The Last of Us Remastered | North America, Europe | July 11, 2014 | PlayStation 4 |
| The Last of Us Remastered | Australia, Japan, Asia | July–August 2014 | PlayStation 4 |
| The Last of Us Part II | North America, Europe | June 19, 2020 | PlayStation 4 |
| The Last of Us Part II | Australia, Japan, Asia | June–July 2020 | PlayStation 4 |
Platform and Edition Notes
The Last of Us has seen releases across multiple PlayStation generations. Digital versions are often available through the PlayStation Store, while physical editions vary by region and retailer. Remastered editions typically appear on newer PlayStation hardware, and some players encounter these titles through collections or subscription services.
Regional Considerations
Release windows can differ by territory due to localization, rating processes, and distribution logistics. Players in Japan, for example, often see later launch dates compared to Western markets. Checking region-specific storefronts and publisher communications provides the most accurate timing for local launches.
What to Expect Moving Forward
As an evergreen franchise, The Last of Us titles remain available through standard retail and digital channels. New players can access the original and its sequel on current and previous PlayStation generations depending on platform availability and regional catalogs.
FAQ
Reader questions
When did The Last of Us first release?
The original The Last of Us launched in June 2013 in North America and Europe, with other regions following in July 2013.
When did the remaster come out?
The Last of Us Remastered released in July 2014 on PlayStation 4 in North America and Europe, with other regions receiving it throughout July and August 2014.
When did The Last of Us Part II launch?
The Last of Us Part II launched in June 2020, with North American and European releases on June 19, 2020, and other regions in late June to early July 2020.
Are these games available on current consoles?
The original and remastered editions are primarily PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 titles, often accessible through digital stores and selected physical releases depending on region and retailer.
Why do regional dates vary?
Differences arise from localization schedules, platform certification, and distribution logistics, which commonly result in staggered launches between Western and Asian markets.
Where can I check the most accurate local date?
Consulting your regional PlayStation Store, official publisher announcements, and reputable retailer listings will provide the most precise and current release information for your area.