The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 1 Now Available on Max – 9meters
The highly anticipated return of The Last of Us is finally here with Season 2 premiering on April 13, 2025. The first episode, titled “Future Days,” takes viewers back into the post-pandemic world five years after the events of Season 1. We see Joel and Ellie in Jackson, Wyoming, dealing with the consequences of Joel’s controversial decision that saved Ellie’s life but cost a potential cure for humanity.
The premiere episode does not shy away from exploring the emotional fallout of Joel’s choice, giving us a more introspective Joel and a complex Ellie portrayed beautifully by Bella Ramsey. The tone is set for a season filled with gripping emotions and tough decisions.
One of the highlights of this season is the introduction of Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever, whose story is front and center right from the start, offering a fresh perspective on revenge, morality, and trauma. The intertwining of Abby’s mission with Joel’s adds layers of tension and intrigue.
With only seven episodes this season as opposed to nine in Season 1, the showrunners are taking a focused approach to storytelling, diving deeper into the characters’ psychology and trauma rather than relying solely on action. Critics have praised the show for its willingness to deviate from the source material for stronger television storytelling.
While some fans of the video game may notice changes in the plot, these adjustments are aimed at enriching the viewing experience for a wider audience and preserving the core emotional arcs of the story. Early reviews have been positive, with particular acclaim for the performances of Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, and Kaitlyn Dever.
Season 2 of The Last of Us is a challenging and ambitious continuation that delves into themes of grief, revenge, and moral ambiguity. It may not be a crowd-pleaser for everyone, especially those unfamiliar with the game, but for those willing to embrace the discomfort, it offers a deeply resonant and emotionally impactful viewing experience. Season 3 will be the ultimate test of whether these creative risks pay off.
Be sure to catch The Last of Us Season 2 airing Sundays at 6 PM PT / 9 PM ET on HBO and streaming on Max.
