Key Release Details At a Glance
The following table summarizes the main launch information for The Last of Us across platforms and regions.
| Platform / Region | Release Date | Edition(s) Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 3 (North America) | June 14, 2013 | Standard | Initial retail and digital launch |
| PlayStation 3 (Europe) | June 14, 2013 | Standard | Widely available in EU markets |
| PlayStation 3 (Japan) | June 20, 2013 | Standard | Slightly later regional rollout |
| PlayStation 4 | July 29, 2014 | Standard | Remastered as part of PS4 re-release |
| The Last of Us Part I (PS5 Remaster) | September 2, 2022 | Digital and Standard | Native PS5 upgrade, also on PC via Epic and Steam |
| The Last of Us Part I (PC, Windows) | March 28, 2023 | Standard | Delivered via Epic Games Store, later Steam |
| The Last of Us Day 1 Edition | June 14, 2013 | Day 1 Edition | Includes SteelBook and digital extras |
| Remastered Holiday Bundle (PS3/PS4) | November 2014 (varies) | Bundle | The Last of Us and Left Behind |
The Original PlayStation 3 Launch
The Last of Us first reached players on PlayStation 3 on June 14, 2013 in North America, establishing the franchise with a critically acclaimed single-player narrative experience. In Europe and many other regions, the same June 14, 2013 date marked the wide availability of the standard edition. By June 20, 2013, the title launched in Japan, completing the initial global rollout for the base game on PlayStation 3.
Day One and Collector Editions
Players who purchased the Day 1 Edition received a SteelBook case and additional digital items, adding collectible value at launch. Retailers also offered various pre-order bonuses that influenced in-game item availability in the early weeks following release.
Transition To PlayStation 4 and Remaster
On July 29, 2014, The Last of Us arrived on PlayStation 4 as part of the PS4 launch lineup in many regions, delivering improved visuals and performance compared to the PS3 original. Later, The Last of Us Remastered consolidated these enhancements on PlayStation 4 and reached Windows players through the Epic Games Store on July 29, 2015, expanding long-term access for the community.
The Last of Us Part I on PlayStation 5 and PC
September 2, 2022 marked a major milestone when The Last of Us Part I launched on PlayStation 5, rebuilt from the ground up with upgraded graphics, haptics, and accessibility features while preserving the core story. On March 28, 2023, this remaster extended to Windows via the Epic Games Store and later to Steam, introducing next-gen enhancements to a broader audience.
Regional Differences and Timelines
Release timing varied by region due to localization, certification, and platform preparation. North America and Europe generally received the earliest availability, while Asian markets, including Japan, followed slightly later for both the original PlayStation 3 version and subsequent releases.
Platform Comparison at a Glance
Understanding where and when each version launched helps clarify which platform holds the earliest or latest release for The Last of Us catalog.
- PlayStation 3: June 14, 2013 (NA/EU), June 20, 2013 (Japan)
- PlayStation 4: July 29, 2014 (remastered)
- PlayStation 5 (The Last of Us Part I): September 2, 2022
- PC (Epic Games Store): July 29, 2015 (Remastered)
- PC (Steam): March 28, 2023 (Part I)
Special Editions and Their Contents
Over the years, multiple editions have offered unique physical and digital bonuses. The Day 1 Edition provided a distinctive SteelBook artwork and early access to digital side content, while later bundles combined The Last of Us with The Last of Us Part II or Left Behind, often timed around holiday periods to maximize availability and appeal.
FAQ
Reader questions
What is the exact date of the original The Last of Us release?
The original The Last of Us launched on June 14, 2013 on PlayStation 3 in North America and Europe, with a Japan launch on June 20, 2013.
When did The Last of Us come to PlayStation 4 and PC?
The PlayStation 4 remaster arrived on July 29, 2014, and the PC version launched on July 29, 2015 via the Epic Games Store.
When was The Last of Us Part I released on next-gen platforms?
The Last of Us Part I debuted on PlayStation 5 on September 2, 2022 and reached PC on March 28, 2023.
Were there any major regional delays for the original game?
Japan experienced a modest delay, launching about one month after North America and Europe, which is typical for many western titles in the region.
Do earlier purchases apply to later editions under cross-buy programs?
Owners of earlier digital copies may be eligible for cross-buy benefits when upgrading to The Last of Us Part I on supported platforms; policies vary by store and region.
Where can I check my edition and eligibility for upgrades?
Review your library on PlayStation or the relevant storefront (Epic or Steam) to confirm your edition and any upgrade options. The Last of Us remains a landmark action-adventure experience, with multiple editions spanning PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Windows. Understanding these release windows helps players identify which version they own and what upgrades may be available.