The season finale of “The Last of Us” Season 2 on HBO delivered a high-stakes episode that significantly raised the stakes for the characters, particularly Ellie, played by Bella Ramsey. The episode culminates in Ellie facing life-threatening peril, violent confrontations, and ultimately, a shocking twist as the narrative shifts to Abby (Kaitlyn Dever), suggesting a significant turn for Season 3.
As expectations build for the upcoming season, producers Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann hint at a clearer picture of the story’s direction. The finale’s events position Abby to take a central role, in line with the narrative structure of the video game “The Last of Us Part II,” which—much like the show—divides its focus between Ellie and Abby. This shift may mean that viewers will see considerably less of Ramsey’s character in the upcoming season while delving deeply into Abby’s journey.
In the original game, players control Ellie in her quest for revenge, which leads to intensive character development and climactic moments that left a lasting impression on the gaming community. The ellipse back to Abby’s perspective in the game suggests an intriguing approach for the series that remains faithful to its source material. This could potentially allow for an exploration of Abby’s relationships and motivations, shifting the audience’s view of her character.
Viewers can also anticipate a change in supporting characters, as known faces like Dina and Tommy may take a back seat to Abby’s network, including characters such as Nora, Owen, and Mel—who have complex narratives intertwined with both her past and the ongoing conflict involving the Washington Liberation Front (WLF) and the Seraphites. The importance of this conflict will be underscored in the next season, highlighting strategic attacks and character interactions that deepen the story.
The tension between the WLF and the Seraphites, previously hinted at, is set to become a core element of the story, promising a significant action-driven arc that could resonate with fans of large-scale confrontations reminiscent of “Game of Thrones.” Notably, the introduction of new characters, including Lev and Yara, adds fresh layers to the narrative, especially with Lev’s character—anticipated to be a pivotal role for a young actor.
As for Pedro Pascal’s Joel, it appears that fans may have seen the last of him, considering both the show’s narrative arc and Pascal’s commitments to other major projects. This leaves an opening for the series to focus almost entirely on the complex dynamics of Ellie, Abby, and their respective journeys, enriching the storytelling as Season 3 unfolds.
In essence, while the finale sets a dark and turbulent stage, the shift in perspective to Abby and the introduction of new character arcs may add layers of depth and complexity, making Season 3 a highly anticipated chapter for audiences.