The Best Episodes of The Last of Us Season 1

Episode Rankings

1. #1 Fan Favorite
   

   9.1/10(123050 votes)

   #1 - When You're Lost in the Darkness

   S1:E11/15/2023

   2003. As a parasitic fungal outbreak begins to ravage the country and the world, Joel Miller attempts to escape the escalating chaos with his daughter and brother. Twenty years later, a now hardened Joel and his partner Tess fight to survive under a totalitarian regime, while the insurgent Fireflies harbor a teenage girl with a unique gift.

   Director:Craig Mazin

   Writers:Neil Druckmann, Craig Mazin

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   Director:Craig Mazin

   Writers:Neil Druckmann, Craig Mazin
2. 

   9.0/10(111138 votes)

   #2 - Infected

   S1:E21/22/2023

   In 2003, an Indonesian scientist makes a devastating discovery. In 2023, now outside of the quarantine zone, Joel and Tess clash over Ellie's fate as they navigate a long-abandoned Boston overrun with Infected.

   Director:Neil Druckmann

   Writer:Craig Mazin

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   Director:Neil Druckmann

   Writer:Craig Mazin
3. 

   8.1/10(240238 votes)

   #3 - Long, Long Time

   S1:E31/29/2023

   Doomsday prepper Bill prepares to ride out the apocalypse alone...until a mysterious stranger upends his plans. Years later, Joel and Ellie seek Bill's guidance – and find themselves at a crossroads.

   Director:Peter Hoar

   Writer:Craig Mazin

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   Director:Peter Hoar

   Writer:Craig Mazin
4. 

   8.3/10(77225 votes)

   #4 - Please Hold to My Hand

   S1:E42/5/2023

   After a harrowing trek across a desolate United States, Joel and Ellie find themselves navigating a dangerous Kansas City on foot. Later, rebel leader Kathleen instigates a manhunt – one that pits her violent civilian militia against the world's best hope.

   Director:Jeremy Webb

   Writer:Craig Mazin

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   Director:Jeremy Webb

   Writer:Craig Mazin
5. 

   9.4/10(89080 votes)

   #5 - Endure and Survive

   S1:E52/12/2023

   On the streets of a newly free Kansas City, Henry fights to protect his brother Sam from rebel soldiers who will stop at nothing to appease their ruthless leader. As her manhunt continues, Kathleen doubles down on her quest for revenge, while Ellie forms a meaningful friendship.

   Director:Jeremy Webb

   Writer:Craig Mazin

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   Director:Jeremy Webb

   Writer:Craig Mazin
6. 

   8.7/10(65890 votes)

   #6 - Kin

   S1:E62/19/2023

   After months of traveling, Joel and Ellie receive a grave warning about what lies ahead. Later, Ellie learns more about Joel's past – while Joel tries his best to forget.

   Director:Jasmila Žbanić

   Writer:Craig Mazin

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   Director:Jasmila Žbanić

   Writer:Craig Mazin
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7. 

   7.3/10(77486 votes)

   #7 - Left Behind

   S1:E72/26/2023

   As Joel fights to survive, Ellie’s struggle to save him stirs memories of her life in a FEDRA orphanage. Weeks before meeting Joel, Ellie recalls joining her best friend Riley for a night to remember… one that will change the course of both of their lives – and the fate of the world – forever.

   Director:Liza Johnson

   Writer:Neil Druckmann

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   Director:Liza Johnson

   Writer:Neil Druckmann
8. 

   9.2/10(67889 votes)

   #8 - When We Are in Need

   S1:E83/5/2023

   After crossing paths with a vengeful group of survivors, Ellie's fighting spirit draws unwanted attention from its leader. Still battling for his life, a weakened Joel faces off with a hunting party out for blood.

   Director:Ali Abbasi

   Writer:Craig Mazin

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   Director:Ali Abbasi

   Writer:Craig Mazin
9. 

   8.9/10(55393 votes)

   #9 - Look for the Light

   S1:E93/12/2023

   After being pursued by Infected, a pregnant Anna places her trust in a lifelong friend. Years later, Ellie is forced to grapple with the emotional toll of her journey, while Joel faces a devastating decision of his own.

   Director:Ali Abbasi

   Writers:Neil Druckmann, Craig Mazin

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   Director:Ali Abbasi

   Writers:Neil Druckmann, Craig Mazin