The Last of Us

The Last of Us

A post-apocalyptic action-adventure game series following survivors in a world devastated by a fungal pandemic.

Category
Game
Release Year
2013
Origin
USA
Tags
post-apocalyptic
survival
fungal-pandemic
action-adventure
emotional-storytelling
survival-horror

Detailed Overview Information

Basic Information

Full Name
The Last of Us Series
Aliases
TLOU, The Last of Us Part I, The Last of Us Part II
Type
Action-Adventure Game Series
Release Year
2013
Status
Active (ongoing series)
Origin
United States
Region
United States

Creation Information

Creator
Neil Druckmann
Publisher
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Original Work
The Last of Us (2013)
Genre
Action-Adventure, Survival Horror, Post-Apocalyptic, Stealth, Third-Person Shooter

Content Information

Synopsis
In a post-apocalyptic United States, survivors Joel and Ellie journey across the country, facing infected creatures and hostile humans while developing a father-daughter bond.
Main Characters
Joel Miller, Ellie Williams, Tommy Miller, Marlene, David, Abby Anderson
Setting
Post-apocalyptic United States, 20 years after fungal pandemic outbreak
Themes
Survival, father-daughter relationships, moral ambiguity, loss of innocence, consequences of violence
Target Audience
Mature audiences (17+), survival horror fans, narrative-driven game enthusiasts

Media Forms

Video Games
Main series games, remastered editions, multiplayer modes
Merchandise
Action figures, clothing, art books, soundtracks, collectibles
Books
Art books, strategy guides, novelizations
Comics
Comic adaptations and tie-ins
Digital Content
Mobile companion apps, digital soundtracks
Collectibles
Limited edition statues, replica props, special releases

Commercial Information

Sales
Over 37 million copies sold worldwide across all games
Revenue
Billions in game sales and merchandise revenue
Awards
Multiple Game of the Year awards, BAFTA Games Awards, D.I.C.E. Awards
Critical Reception
Universal acclaim, praised for storytelling, characters, and emotional impact
Cultural Impact
Redefined storytelling in video games, influenced post-apocalyptic media
Market Value
One of Sony's most valuable exclusive franchises
Licensing
Extensive licensing for merchandise and adaptations
Merchandise Revenue
Significant merchandise sales through Sony and Naughty Dog channels

Fan Culture

Fanbase
Dedicated global fanbase spanning gaming and mainstream audiences
Communities
Active online forums, fan sites, social media groups, gaming communities
Events
Gaming conventions, fan meetups, cosplay gatherings, speedrunning events
Quotes
Endure and survive, That's alright. I believe him, Everyone I have cared for has either died or left me
Memes
Press X to doubt, Giraffes, Joel's guitar, Ellie's jokes, infected clickers
Cosplay
Joel and Ellie costumes, clicker makeup, Firefly costumes, post-apocalyptic outfits
Fan Art
Character art, emotional scenes, alternate universe scenarios, Joel and Ellie moments
Fan Projects
Fan films, music covers, art projects, story analysis videos
Cultural References
Referenced in other games, TV shows, and pop culture media

Historical Development

2013
The Last of Us original game released for PlayStation 3
2014
Left Behind DLC released, expanding Ellie's backstory
2016
The Last of Us Part I remastered for PlayStation 4
2020
The Last of Us Part II released for PlayStation 4
2022
The Last of Us Part I remake released for PlayStation 5 and PC
2023
HBO television adaptation premieres, reaching mainstream audiences

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