HBO’s The Last of Us sets new bar for game-to-TV adaptations

The season finale for HBO’s The Last of Us (TLOU) aired on Sunday, concluding one of gaming’s most successful game adaptions (for now). Both the quality and popularity of adaptations are on the rise overall. But unlike previous adaptations, The Last of Us achieved a new level of success on both of these metrics.

The Last of Us was able to capture Joel and Ellie’s struggle for survival and present it authentically to a new audience. While the quality wasn’t perfect — mild spoilers ahead! — it’s undeniable that the show pleased both fans and newcomers. According to Parrot Analytics, The Last of Us was the most in-demand show globally from its January 15 premiere to March 11, 2023.