The Last of Us is an incredibly popular and critically acclaimed video game that captured the hearts and minds of players around the world. Its gripping storyline, intense gameplay, and immersive world-building are just a few of the reasons why it is considered a masterpiece.
If you are a fan of this post-apocalyptic adventure and are looking for similar games to enjoy, look no further. In this article, we will explore 20 games that share some similarities with The Last of Us.
The Walking Dead: Telltale Series
One game that immediately comes to mind when thinking about games like The Last of Us is The Walking Dead: Telltale Series.
This episodic adventure game puts players in the shoes of Lee Everett, a man who becomes the protector and guardian of a young girl named Clementine in a world overrun by zombies. Like The Last of Us, The Walking Dead is known for its compelling storytelling and emotional impact.
As you progress through the game, your choices will have far-reaching consequences and will determine the fate of the characters around you. The relationships you form with other survivors will be crucial in ensuring your survival in this harsh and unforgiving post-apocalyptic world.
The game’s episodic nature allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their motivations. Each episode introduces new challenges and introduces new characters, some of whom may become your closest allies or your most dangerous enemies.
One of the standout features of The Walking Dead: Telltale Series is its emphasis on player choice and consequence. The decisions you make throughout the game will not only affect the immediate outcome but will also shape the overall narrative and determine the ultimate fate of the characters.
If you enjoyed The Last of Us, you won’t want to miss out on this gripping and emotionally charged adventure.
- Release Date: April 24, 2012 (Season 1, Episode 1)
- Platforms: PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Mobile platforms, and more
- Developer: Telltale Games
- Publisher: Telltale Games
- Genre: Graphic adventure, Interactive drama
Red Dead Redemption 2
While The Last of Us is set in a world ravaged by a fungal outbreak, Red Dead Redemption 2 takes players back to the Wild West. Developed by Rockstar Games, this open-world action-adventure game offers a vast and immersive world filled with complex characters and moral dilemmas.
Red Dead Redemption 2 delves deep into the themes of loyalty, redemption, and the lengths one would go to protect those they care about. As Arthur Morgan, you’ll be faced with difficult choices that will shape your character’s journey.
The game’s richly developed characters, from the charismatic Dutch van der Linde to the resilient Sadie Adler, will captivate you with their depth and complexity.
Red Dead Redemption 2 not only offers a compelling story but also showcases stunning visuals that bring the Wild West to life. From the vibrant sunsets painting the sky to the meticulous attention to detail in every building and character, the game’s graphics create a truly immersive experience.
Red Dead Redemption 2 boasts detailed gameplay that will keep you engaged for hours on end. Engage in thrilling gunfights, engage in intense horseback chases, and embark on epic quests that will test your skills and decision-making abilities.
For fans of The Last of Us, Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a similar level of depth and emotional storytelling. Both games explore the human condition in the face of adversity and challenge players to confront their own morality.
- Release Date: October 26, 2018
- Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One
- Developer: Rockstar Studios
- Publisher: Rockstar Games
- Genre: Action-adventure
Days Gone
Days Gone is another game that bears similarities to The Last of Us. Set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombie-like creatures called “Freakers,” the game follows the journey of Deacon St. John, a bounty hunter trying to find his wife in the midst of chaos.
Just like in The Last of Us, survival is crucial, and players must scavenge for resources, craft weapons, and strategize to overcome the challenges they encounter. The game also features a dynamic weather system and a day-night cycle, adding to the immersive experience.
In Days Gone, players will explore a vast open world filled with diverse environments. From dense forests to abandoned towns, each location is meticulously designed to create a sense of desolation and danger. The world is teeming with life, both human and infected, and players will have to navigate through these threats while uncovering the mysteries of the apocalypse.
As players progress through the game, they will also encounter various factions and characters, each with their own motivations and agendas. These interactions add depth to the narrative and provide opportunities for players to make choices that can impact the story.
With its intense combat, strategic gameplay, and emotionally charged narrative, Days Gone is a great choice for fans of The Last of Us.
- Release Date: April 26, 2019
- Platforms: PS4, PC
- Developer: Bend Studio
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Genre: Action-adventure, survival horror
God of War (2018)
The Last of Us is renowned for its storytelling, and God of War (2018) is no different in that aspect. Developed by Santa Monica Studio, this action-adventure game follows the journey of Kratos, the Greek god of war, as he embarks on a quest with his son, Atreus.
The game seamlessly blends epic cinematic moments with intense combat, challenging puzzles, and a deep exploration of the father-son relationship.
Much like The Last of Us, God of War (2018) delivers a compelling narrative while immersing players in a beautifully crafted world inspired by Norse mythology.
- Release Date: April 20, 2018
- Platforms: PS4
- Developer: Santa Monica Studio
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
- Genre: Action-adventure
Uncharted Series
If you enjoyed The Last of Us for its action-packed gameplay and well-developed characters, you should definitely check out the Uncharted series. Developed by Naughty Dog, the same studio behind The Last of Us, these games follow the adventures of Nathan Drake, a charismatic treasure hunter.
Similar to The Last of Us, the Uncharted series features thrilling action sequences, spectacular set-pieces, and a strong emphasis on storytelling.
As you join Nathan Drake on his quests for lost treasures, you’ll encounter danger around every corner and engage in exhilarating gunfights and platforming sequences.
- Release Date: November 20, 2007 (for “Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune”)
- Platforms: PS3 (initially, later entries varied)
- Developer: Naughty Dog
- Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
- Genre: Action-adventure
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is a dark and atmospheric action-adventure game that mirrors The Last of Us in terms of its unique atmosphere and emotional impact.
Developed by Ninja Theory, the game follows the journey of Senua, a Celtic warrior battling her inner demons while exploring a corrupted Norse land.
Like The Last of Us, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice deals with themes of loss, trauma, and the power of human resilience. The game’s innovative use of binaural audio and stunning visuals creates a hauntingly immersive experience that will leave a lasting impression.
- Release Date: August 8, 2017
- Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Developer: Ninja Theory
- Publisher: Ninja Theory
- Genre: Action-adventure, psychological horror
Resident Evil Series
The Resident Evil series has been a staple in the survival horror genre for decades, and it’s easy to see why fans of The Last of Us would enjoy these games.
Set in various apocalyptic scenarios, the Resident Evil games put players in the shoes of survivors forced to face hordes of zombies and other monstrosities.
From the claustrophobic corridors of the Spencer Mansion in the original Resident Evil to the desolate streets of Raccoon City in Resident Evil 2 Remake, these games evoke a sense of dread and tension similar to The Last of Us. If you’re looking for intense survival horror experiences, the Resident Evil series is a must-play.
- Release Date: March 22, 1996 (original release)
- Platforms: Various over the years, starting with the PlayStation
- Developer: Capcom
- Publisher: Capcom
- Genre: Survival horror
Detroit: Become Human
If you were captivated by the narrative-driven gameplay of The Last of Us, then Detroit: Become Human should be on your radar. Developed by Quantic Dream, this interactive drama game allows players to navigate a futuristic world where androids live alongside humans.
Similar to The Last of Us, Detroit: Become Human is all about choices and their consequences. As you control three different android protagonists, your decisions will shape the outcome of the story and the fate of the characters involved. With its thought-provoking themes and branching narrative paths, this game will keep you engaged from start to finish.
- Release Date: May 25, 2018
- Platforms: PS4, PC
- Developer: Quantic Dream
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment, Quantic Dream (PC)
- Genre: Interactive drama, action-adventure
Tomb Raider Series
The Tomb Raider series has been captivating players for years with its thrilling adventures and iconic protagonist, Lara Croft. If you enjoyed the exploration and survival elements of The Last of Us, you won’t be disappointed with these games.
As Lara Croft, you will navigate treacherous environments, solve intricate puzzles, and engage in intense combat against both human and supernatural foes. The series has seen a reboot in recent years, starting with Tomb Raider (2013), which delves into Lara’s origins and transforms her into the resilient and resourceful explorer we know today.
- Release Date: October 25, 1996 (original release)
- Platforms: Various over the years, starting with Sega Saturn, PlayStation, and MS-DOS
- Developer: Core Design (original), later entries varied
- Publisher: Eidos Interactive (original), later entries varied
- Genre: Action-adventure
A Plague Tale: Innocence
If you’re looking for a game that delivers an emotionally charged narrative set in a grim and challenging world, A Plague Tale: Innocence is a game you don’t want to miss. Developed by Asobo Studio, this stealth-based action-adventure game follows the harrowing journey of Amicia and her younger brother Hugo during the Hundred Years’ War.
Similar to The Last of Us, A Plague Tale: Innocence explores the bond between siblings as they navigate a plague-infested world filled with danger and despair. The game’s atmospheric visuals, gripping storytelling, and strategic gameplay make it a standout title for fans of The Last of Us.
- Release Date: May 14, 2019
- Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Developer: Asobo Studio
- Publisher: Focus Home Interactive
- Genre: Action-adventure, stealth
Until Dawn
Next on our list is Until Dawn, a cinematic horror game that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Set in a remote mountain lodge, the game follows a group of friends who are being hunted by a mysterious killer.
As you navigate through the game, you’ll find yourself immersed in a chilling atmosphere, with every creak and whisper sending shivers down your spine. The detailed graphics and realistic character animations make the experience even more terrifying, as you witness the fear and desperation in the eyes of each character.
Throughout the game, you’ll also encounter moral dilemmas that will test your own sense of right and wrong. Will you sacrifice one character to save the others? Or will you risk it all to keep everyone alive?
Until Dawn is a game that seamlessly blends the elements of horror and interactive storytelling. The hauntingly beautiful setting, combined with the gripping narrative and tense gameplay, creates an unforgettable experience that will leave you questioning your own instincts and morality.
So, if you’re a fan of The Last of Us and enjoy heart-pounding horror games, Until Dawn is a must-play.
- Release Date: August 25, 2015
- Platforms: PS4
- Developer: Supermassive Games
- Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
- Genre: Interactive drama, survival horror
Death Stranding
In Death Stranding, you play as Sam Porter Bridges, a courier tasked with reconnecting a fractured society in a post-apocalyptic world. As you navigate through the game’s hauntingly beautiful landscapes, you will encounter a vast array of environments that showcase the stunning graphics and attention to detail that make Death Stranding a visual masterpiece.
The game’s complex storyline is woven with themes of isolation, connection, and the consequences of our actions. As Sam Porter Bridges, you will encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and struggles.
One of the standout features of Death Stranding is its innovative gameplay mechanics. As a courier, you will rely on your wits and resourcefulness to navigate treacherous terrain and overcome obstacles. The game introduces a unique concept called the “strand” system, which allows players to leave behind helpful items and structures for other players to use in their own journeys.
As you progress through Death Stranding, you will face various challenges and encounter dangerous enemies known as “BTs” (Beached Things). These ethereal creatures add a sense of tension and suspense to the gameplay, requiring you to strategize and utilize your tools wisely. The encounters with BTs are often intense and adrenaline-pumping, further heightening the overall experience.
From its stunning visuals to its innovative gameplay mechanics, Death Stranding is a testament to the power of video games as a medium for storytelling and emotional exploration.
- Release Date: November 8, 2019
- Platforms: PS4, PC
- Developer: Kojima Productions
- Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment, 505 Games (PC)
- Genre: Action, strand game
Metro Series
The Metro series, consisting of Metro 2033, Metro: Last Light, and Metro Exodus, is a post-apocalyptic first-person shooter that combines atmospheric storytelling with intense gameplay. Set in the tunnels of a devastated Moscow, the games take you on a journey through the remnants of humanity, battling mutants and hostile factions. With its immersive world-building and emotional storytelling, the Metro series is a must-play for fans of The Last of Us.
But the Metro series is a masterclass in world-building and storytelling. The games are based on the novels by Dmitry Glukhovsky, and the attention to detail in recreating the post-apocalyptic Moscow is astounding. From the graffiti-covered walls to the makeshift settlements, every aspect of the world feels meticulously crafted and believable.
The Metro series tackles deep and thought-provoking themes, exploring the resilience of humanity in the face of adversity. It delves into the moral complexities of survival, forcing players to make tough decisions that have lasting consequences. The characters you meet along the way are fully realized and their stories will tug at your heartstrings, making you question what it truly means to be human in a world on the brink of extinction.
The Metro series is a captivating and immersive experience that combines thrilling gameplay with rich storytelling.
Whether you’re a fan of first-person shooters or simply enjoy a well-crafted narrative, the Metro series is sure to leave a lasting impression.
- Release Date: March 16, 2010
- Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, later on PS4, Xbox One, and others in redux form
- Developer: 4A Games
- Publisher: THQ, Deep Silver (redux)
- Genre: First-person shooter, survival horror
Alan Wake
Alan Wake is a psychological thriller that follows the eponymous writer as he searches for his missing wife in the small town of Bright Falls. Filled with supernatural elements, gripping suspense, and a compelling narrative, the game draws you into its dark and mysterious world.
As you delve into the game, you’ll find yourself immersed in the atmospheric setting of Bright Falls. The town is beautifully rendered, with its dense forests, eerie lakes, and hauntingly abandoned buildings. Each location you explore is meticulously designed to create a sense of unease and tension, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
As you progress through the game, you’ll discover that light plays a crucial role in your survival. The darkness is your enemy, and you must utilize various light sources to fend off the malevolent forces that lurk in the shadows.
The game is structured like a TV series, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger, leaving you eagerly anticipating the next episode. The narrative unfolds through a combination of in-game cutscenes, radio broadcasts, and pages from Alan’s own manuscript.
Alan Wake also excels in creating a sense of dread and suspense. The game masterfully builds tension through its use of sound design and atmospheric music. Every creaking floorboard, distant scream, and sudden burst of static on the radio adds to the feeling of unease, making you constantly aware of the lurking dangers that surround you.
If you’re a fan of The Last of Us and enjoy a good psychological thriller, Alan Wake is a must-play.
- Release Date: May 14, 2010
- Platforms: Xbox 360, PC
- Developer: Remedy Entertainment
- Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios, Remedy Entertainment (PC)
- Genre: Action-adventure, psychological thriller
Heavy Rain
Heavy Rain is an interactive drama that puts you in control of four characters involved in the investigation of the Origami Killer.
As you make choices throughout the game, the story unfolds in different ways, leading to multiple endings. With its mature themes, gripping storytelling, and impressive character development, Heavy Rain is a game that will keep you hooked from start to finish, just like The Last of Us.
- Release Date: February 23, 2010
- Platforms: PS3, later on PS4 and PC
- Developer: Quantic Dream
- Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
- Genre: Interactive drama, action-adventure
Dead Space Series
The Dead Space series is a sci-fi horror franchise that follows Isaac Clarke, an engineer fighting against reanimated corpses known as Necromorphs. With its atmospheric setting, intense gameplay, and visceral horror, the series offers a similar sense of dread and tension found in The Last of Us. Prepare to explore derelict spaceships and fight for survival in this spine-chilling franchise.
- Release Date: October 13, 2008
- Platforms: PC, PS3, Xbox 360
- Developer: EA Redwood Shores (later known as Visceral Games)
- Publisher: Electronic Arts
- Genre: Survival horror, third-person shooter
State of Decay Series
If you enjoyed the survival elements of The Last of Us, you’ll love the State of Decay series. Set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, the games focus on community management, resource gathering, and survival. With its open-world exploration and strategic decision-making, the State of Decay series delivers an immersive and challenging gameplay experience.
- Release Date: June 5, 2013
- Platforms: Xbox 360, PC, Xbox One (Year-One Survival Edition)
- Developer: Undead Labs
- Publisher: Microsoft Studios
- Genre: Action-adventure, survival horror, simulation
Bioshock Series
The Bioshock series, consisting of Bioshock, Bioshock 2, and Bioshock Infinite, is a first-person shooter that takes place in dystopian, underwater cities. With its immersive storytelling, thought-provoking themes, and unique gameplay mechanics, the series offers a similar blend of action and narrative depth as The Last of Us. Prepare to be captivated by the gripping stories and hauntingly beautiful environments of the Bioshock series.
- Release Date: August 21, 2007
- Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, later on PS3, PS4, Xbox One, and others
- Developer: 2K Boston/2K Australia (known as Irrational Games later)
- Publisher: 2K Games
- Genre: First-person shooter
Spec Ops: The Line
Spec Ops: The Line is a military shooter that explores the psychological impact of war. Set in a sandstorm-ravaged Dubai, the game follows Captain Martin Walker as he investigates the whereabouts of lost soldiers.
With its intense combat, moral choices, and thought-provoking narrative, Spec Ops: The Line challenges the player’s perception of right and wrong, much like The Last of Us.
- Release Date: June 26, 2012
- Platforms: PC, PS3, Xbox 360
- Developer: Yager Development
- Publisher: 2K Games
- Genre: Third-person shooter
Firewatch
Firewatch is a first-person adventure game set in the Wyoming wilderness. As a fire lookout named Henry, you uncover mysteries and deal with personal issues through radio conversations with your supervisor, Delilah.
With its beautiful art style, immersive exploration, and heartfelt storytelling, Firewatch offers a unique and emotional experience that fans of The Last of Us will appreciate.
- Release Date: February 9, 2016
- Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Developer: Campo Santo
- Publisher: Campo Santo, Panic
- Genre: Adventure, walking simulator
Conclusion
If you’re looking for games that capture the essence of The Last of Us, these 20 titles are worth checking out. Whether you’re drawn to the intense survival horror of Dead Space or the emotional storytelling of Heavy Rain, each game offers its own unique take on the post-apocalyptic genre.