The Last of Us is one of the most beloved video games of all time. When it was first released in 2013, it was met with an overwhelmingly positive critical reception. Naughty Dog delivered an incredibly dramatic and emotional story and exciting, action-packed gameplay. Players immediately gravitated to its main characters – Joel and Ellie – and it was subsequently rereleased on both PS4 and PS5. And in 2023, a highly successful TV show based on the game debuted. But what are the best video games like The Last of Us?
Of course, no game can truly replicate the magic of the original The Last of Us game. It is one of a kind. It’s a tale about a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a deadly fungal infection. Joel, a hardened survivor, is tasked with escorting a young girl named Ellie across the country in hopes of finding a cure. Along the way, they encounter dangerous infected and ruthless human factions, which pushes them to their limits. As they near their destination, Joel is forced make a devastating choice.
Given that its narrative is so gripping, it’s only natural that fans will want to play other games just like it. After all, what’s not to love about a video game with brutal, nerve-racking combat and a deeply engaging plot? Check out the list below detailing the five best video games like The Last of Us, recommended by Reddit users.
The best video games like The Last of Us (according to Reddit)
The Last of Us Part II (2020)
If you loved The Last of Us, you should absolutely check out its sequel. However, it is controversial. That’s because The Last of Us Part II features a narrative even more savage than its predecessor. The game’s twists and turns that are hard to believe – and even harder to stomach.
Ellie and Joel return in Part II, as does the original’s awesome combat. Only, this time, it’s even better. Whether you love it or hate it, Part II is an unforgettable experience that every fan of The Last of Us absolutely must play.
Redditor Kitdivine said: “The graphics are next level beautiful, the story is deeply moving, and the gameplay loop is fun as hell. If you played and liked the first one this one builds on it in basically every way.”
The Walking Dead: Season One (2012)
The Walking Dead: Season One was created by Telltale Games and released across five ‘episodes’ in 2012. It bears some striking resemblances to The Last of Us, at least as far as its plot is concerned.
Players take on the role of Lee Everett. Lee is a convicted criminal who is given a second chance at life in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. Lee must protect a young girl named Clementine as they navigate through dangerous situations and encounter other survivors, all while trying to survive in a deadly world. Along the way, Lee and Clementine face many difficult choices (which you can influence) that shape their journey.
The Walking Dead: Season One received numerous Game of the Year awards and was followed by three additional games (called “seasons”). The last instalment was released in 2019. Reddit user LazyLamont92 said: “The Telltale Walking Dead series has the familiar genre, zombies and thrills, but takes a choose-your-own adventure approach.”
A Plague Tale: Innocence (2019)
A Plague Tale: Innocence is a game that flew under the radar for many when it was released in 2019. But it features stealth and survival elements similar to The Last of Us. It also tells a similar story of survival and the protection of someone more vulnerable.
In this narrative-driven adventure game, players find themselves in 14th century France during the time of the Black Death. The game follows the story of Amicia and her younger brother Hugo, as they journey through a plague-infested countryside, facing off against Inquisition soldiers, swarms of rats, and other dangers in order to survive and uncover the truth about their family.
Responding to a user looking for games with similarities to The Last of Us, Redditor Crow82 said: “Plague Tale might check some of those boxes for you.”
Death Stranding (2019)
Continuing the theme of protecting the vulnerable on a dangerous journey, Death Stranding comes from legendary video game director Hideo Kojima. Kojima – known for the acclaimed Metal Gear series – really pushed the boat out with this one. Its story is particularly whacky and unbelievable, but is equally engaging and thought-provoking.
In Death Stranding, players control Sam Porter Bridges, a courier tasked with delivering important cargo across a post-apocalyptic America while avoiding and fighting dangerous supernatural entities known as the “Beached Things.” Along the way, Sam must also protect and care for a baby known as a BB, which serves as a valuable tool in detecting these otherworldly creatures.
While Death Stranding certainly isn’t for everyone, its gorgeous graphics and unique gameplay set it apart from the other games and help deliver a truly distinctive experience. u/EvilSporkOfDeath said: “Nothing truly like TLOU, but here’s some high quality games that often get mentioned… Death Stranding”.
God of War (2018)
Last but certainly not least is 2018’s God of War (and, by extension, its sequel God of War Ragnarok). This game was the winner of multiple Game of the Year awards and resurrected the dormant God of War series.
God of War is a gripping action-adventure game that follows the story of Kratos and his son Atreus as they embark on a perilous journey through the Nordic wilderness. Kratos, a former Greek God, is haunted by his past and struggles to connect with his young son who he tries to train as a warrior while shielding him from the truth about his divine heritage.
It features one of the most memorable stories of the PS4-era, set new standards for melee combat, and incorporates welcome RPG elements. Reddit user n0ggy said: “It’s fantasy but God of War (2018) is, from the admission of its creator, heavily inspired by The Last of Us.”
Do you think these are the best video games like The Last of Us? Or do you have better suggestions? Let us know in the comment section below and don’t forget to check out our other gaming articles…
