The Last of Us hits PS5 in July with collector’s edition, two games, and unique art

The Last of Us continues to captivate its global fanbase with a new chapter in its storied legacy. A special edition bundling both The Last of Us Part I and Part II is set to launch on PlayStation 5 on July 10, offering players a chance to experience the iconic franchise in a refreshed format. Priced at $100 for the digital version and $110 for the physical one, the release is already available for pre-order, sparking excitement among gamers and collectors alike. The physical edition stands out with exclusive items like a themed steelbook, a hardcover comic, and unique lithographs, making it a must-have for devotees of Joel and Ellie’s post-apocalyptic journey. As anticipation builds, fans are also counting down to the second season of the HBO series, premiering on April 13, which promises to bring Part II’s intense narrative to life.

This collector’s edition arrives at a pivotal moment for the franchise. The Last of Us Part I, a 2022 remake, and Part II, remastered in 2024, have been optimized for the PS5, leveraging its advanced hardware for stunning visuals and seamless gameplay. The physical version includes a steelbook featuring Joel and Ellie, a hardcover edition of The Last of Us: American Dreams comic, four exclusive lithographs, and a heartfelt thank-you letter from Neil Druckmann, the creative mind behind the series at Naughty Dog. These additions elevate the package beyond a simple re-release, catering to fans who cherish tangible connections to the franchise’s universe. Meanwhile, the digital version offers a streamlined option for those eager to dive into the games without delay.

The timing of this release aligns with a surge of interest in The Last of Us. The HBO series, which became a cultural phenomenon in 2023, is gearing up for its second season, introducing characters like Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever, and Dina, portrayed by Isabela Merced. Directed by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, the show will adapt Part II across multiple seasons, ensuring a deep exploration of its complex themes. With the PS5 edition and the series debut just months apart, the franchise is poised to dominate conversations in gaming and entertainment, reinforcing its status as a storytelling powerhouse that resonates across generations.

What’s included in the collector’s edition

The physical edition of The Last of Us for PS5 is designed to thrill collectors. Beyond the two games, it offers a steelbook with a striking design of Joel and Ellie against a ravaged backdrop, capturing the series’ gritty aesthetic. The hardcover comic, The Last of Us: American Dreams, spans 96 pages and delves into Ellie’s life before meeting Joel, providing backstory that enriches the main narrative. Four lithographs, each measuring 12×16 inches, showcase exclusive artwork of key locations like Jackson and Seattle, crafted by Naughty Dog’s art team. A handwritten-style letter from Neil Druckmann expresses gratitude to the community, printed on premium paper for added authenticity.

For gamers, the digital version at $100 delivers both titles with all PS5 enhancements, including 4K visuals and faster load times. The physical edition, priced at $110, has seen strong pre-order demand in markets like the U.S. and Europe, where limited stock is expected. In Brazil, prices are likely to range from $120 to $150 due to import taxes, though local distributors have yet to confirm availability. The July 10 launch positions the release as a summer highlight, perfectly timed for players looking to revisit or discover the saga before the HBO series ramps up excitement.

This edition builds on the franchise’s technical achievements. Part I’s 2022 remake overhauled graphics with lifelike character models and dynamic lighting, while Part II’s 2024 remaster introduced a roguelike mode called “No Return,” adding replay value. Both games leverage the PS5’s DualSense controller for immersive feedback, making every shot and stealth move feel visceral. The combination of these upgrades with collector’s items creates a package that appeals to both casual players and die-hard fans.

Exclusive items in the physical edition

Here’s a breakdown of what collectors get with the physical version:

• Themed steelbook featuring Joel and Ellie in a post-apocalyptic setting.
• Hardcover edition of The Last of Us: American Dreams comic, 96 pages.
• Four 12×16-inch lithographs with exclusive artwork from the games.
• Thank-you letter from Neil Druckmann, printed on premium stock.

These extras make the physical edition a standout, blending nostalgia with craftsmanship for fans who value memorabilia.

A franchise that redefined gaming

Since its debut in 2013 on PlayStation 3, The Last of Us has set a gold standard for narrative-driven games. Set in a world ravaged by a fungal infection that turns humans into monstrous creatures, the story follows Joel, a hardened smuggler, and Ellie, a teenage girl with a rare immunity. Their journey through ruined cities and desolate landscapes blends action, stealth, and emotional depth, earning over 200 Game of the Year awards. Part II, released in 2020, pushed boundaries further with its morally ambiguous tale, introducing Abby and sparking debates that cemented its cultural impact. Together, the games have sold over 37 million copies worldwide as of 2024.

The PS5 versions in this edition showcase technical leaps. Part I’s remake, launched in 2022, rebuilt the original with real-time lighting and detailed environments, making every scene—from Boston’s crumbling skyscrapers to Wyoming’s snowy trails—visually spectacular. Part II’s remaster, out in 2024, added 60 FPS performance and the “No Return” mode, where players face randomized combat challenges. These enhancements ensure the games feel modern, even a decade after the original’s debut, appealing to new players while rewarding longtime fans with refined gameplay.

Beyond gaming, The Last of Us has left a mark on pop culture. The HBO series, launched in 2023, drew 9 million viewers per episode in the U.S., with its finale peaking at 11 million. Praised for staying true to the source while expanding character moments, it brought Joel and Ellie to a broader audience. The upcoming second season, adapting Part II, will dive into darker territory, with its April 13 premiere fueling anticipation that complements the PS5 release. This synergy across media underscores the franchise’s enduring relevance.

Second season of the HBO series

Set to premiere on April 13, the second season of The Last of Us on HBO and Max dives into the story of Part II, but with a twist. Unlike the first season, which covered the entire original game in nine episodes, this seven-episode run adapts only a portion of the sequel, with additional seasons planned to complete the arc. Craig Mazin, known for Chernobyl, and Neil Druckmann helm the project, balancing fidelity to the game with tweaks for TV, such as deeper character backstories and expanded dialogue to flesh out the world.

Pedro Pascal returns as Joel, grappling with his past choices, while Bella Ramsey reprises Ellie, now older and facing new threats. Kaitlyn Dever joins as Abby, a soldier driven by vengeance whose role shifts the narrative’s perspective in ways that stunned gamers. Isabela Merced plays Dina, Ellie’s romantic interest, bringing warmth to the bleak setting, and Young Mazino portrays Jesse, a loyal friend caught in the chaos. These characters, pivotal in Part II, set the stage for a season of intense conflicts and emotional stakes.

New cast members add depth to Abby’s circle. Danny Ramirez plays Manny, an upbeat soldier; Tati Gabrielle is Nora, a doctor haunted by her actions; Ariela Barer portrays Mel, a young medic navigating tribal divides; and Spencer Lord plays Owen, a gentle soul in a warrior’s role. Jeffrey Wright reprises Isaac, the ruthless leader he voiced in the game, ensuring continuity. Shot in Vancouver from February to August 2024, the season’s $120 million budget reflects its ambition, with moody posters hinting at a grim, unforgettable ride.

Behind the PS5 edition’s creation

Launching on July 10, the PS5 edition taps into a strategic window. Summer in the northern hemisphere means more gaming time for many, and the release precedes major events like Gamescom Latam (June 25–29) and CCXP25 (December 4–7), where PlayStation often showcases its titles. The physical edition’s production involved collaboration with top-tier suppliers, from the steelbook’s high-grade metal to the lithographs’ museum-quality prints. The American Dreams comic, reissued in hardcover, features restored artwork, making it a collector’s gem.

Pre-orders are surging in markets like the U.S., where the $110 physical edition is expected to sell out quickly. Digital pre-orders, at $100, are climbing on the PlayStation Store, with instant access promised for launch day. In Brazil, fans await local pricing, likely around R$600 due to currency conversion and taxes, though no official word has confirmed distribution. The Naughty Dog team has teased limited stock for the physical version, urging fans to act fast, a move that’s already driving buzz on social media.

The games themselves are technical marvels. Part I uses ray tracing for realistic shadows and reflections, while Part II’s remaster maximizes the PS5’s SSD for near-instant loads. The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback makes crafting items or firing weapons feel tangible, deepening immersion. These upgrades, paired with the collector’s items, position the edition as a definitive way to experience The Last of Us, whether for newcomers or veterans.

Cultural footprint of The Last of Us

Few franchises have matched The Last of Us’ influence since 2013. Its blend of cinematic storytelling and gameplay redefined what games could achieve, inspiring titles like God of War and Horizon. Part II, with its polarizing narrative, won over 300 awards, including Best Game at The Game Awards 2020, proving its artistic weight. The HBO series extended this legacy, earning Emmy nominations and drawing millions who’d never played the games, cementing Joel and Ellie as cultural icons.

The series’ first season, budgeted at $100 million, set a high bar with its faithful yet fresh take, from the haunting opening to the hospital showdown. The second season, with a tighter seven-episode run, aims to capture Part II’s moral complexity, focusing on vengeance and loss. The PS5 edition ties into this by offering the source material in its best form yet, with extras like the American Dreams comic connecting players to Ellie’s origins and lithographs celebrating the art that’s defined the series.

This multi-platform dominance—games, TV, and collectibles—shows The Last of Us’ unique staying power. Academic papers have dissected its narrative structure, and Gustavo Santaolalla’s haunting score fills concert halls globally. The July release and April premiere keep the franchise in the spotlight, ensuring it remains a touchstone for storytelling in any medium.

Spotlight on the series’ new cast

The second season’s cast is a mix of rising stars and seasoned actors, each tackling complex roles from Part II. Kaitlyn Dever’s Abby, a physically and emotionally demanding part, draws on her nuanced work in “Booksmart.” Isabela Merced’s Dina, a beacon of hope for Ellie, leverages her charm from “Sicario: Day of the Soldado.” Young Mazino, fresh off “Beef,” brings depth to Jesse, a character torn between duty and friendship.

Abby’s allies round out the ensemble. Danny Ramirez, seen in “Top Gun: Maverick,” plays Manny with infectious optimism. Tati Gabrielle, from “Uncharted,” embodies Nora’s quiet torment as a medic with regrets. Ariela Barer’s Mel, a doctor facing harsh realities, builds on her intensity from “How to Blow Up a Pipeline.” Spencer Lord’s Owen, a kind-hearted fighter, draws from his “Riverdale” experience. Jeffrey Wright’s Isaac, a commanding presence from the game, anchors the group, his Oscar-nominated gravitas adding weight.

Filming wrapped in Vancouver after six months, with directors Mazin and Druckmann fine-tuning every scene to match the game’s tone while expanding its emotional scope. The $120 million budget covers sprawling sets, from Seattle’s ruins to Jackson’s snowy streets, promising visuals that rival the games’ cinematic quality. Fans expect this cast to deliver performances that honor the source while surprising viewers.

Tech powering the PS5 games

The PS5 edition maximizes the console’s capabilities. Part I’s remake uses the PS5’s SSD for seamless transitions, with no loading screens to break immersion. Ray tracing enhances visuals, from glistening rivers to flickering firelight, while 3D audio places players in the thick of ambushes or eerie silence. The DualSense’s adaptive triggers make every bow shot or melee strike feel distinct, adding tension to encounters.

Part II’s remaster pushes further with 4K resolution and 60 FPS, ensuring fluid combat and exploration. The “No Return” mode, a roguelike addition, pits players against waves of enemies in randomized arenas, with upgrades that keep each run fresh. These technical feats make the games feel like new releases, justifying the bundle for those who’ve played before and enticing first-timers with best-in-class presentation.

Fan excitement and what’s next

Fans have flooded social media with praise for the PS5 edition, particularly the steelbook and lithographs, which are already fetching high resale prices online. In Brazil, where Part I’s remake launched at $70, gamers hope for bundled discounts, though import costs may push the physical edition to $130 or more. Digital pre-orders are strong globally, with the PlayStation Store reporting a spike since the announcement.

The HBO series’ second season adds fuel to the hype. Its darker posters, featuring Ellie’s haunted gaze and Abby’s steely resolve, hint at a gut-punch narrative. Mazin’s choice to split Part II across seasons—likely concluding in a third by 2027—ensures no rush to cram the story, pleasing fans who feared cuts. Events like Gamescom Latam and CCXP25, with PlayStation booths expected, will likely amplify the buzz, possibly with demos or series previews.

The Last of Us shows no signs of slowing down. The PS5 edition, with its collector’s flair, and the HBO season, with its stellar cast, weave a narrative that spans consoles and screens, keeping Joel and Ellie’s saga alive for years to come.

Key dates for The Last of Us

The franchise’s roadmap is packed:

• April 13: Second season premieres on HBO and Max.
• June 25–29: Gamescom Latam in São Paulo, potentially featuring the franchise.
• July 10: Special PS5 edition launches worldwide.
• December 4–7: CCXP25 in São Paulo, with likely PlayStation presence.

These milestones keep fans engaged, bridging gaming and TV with collectible flair.

Joel and Ellie’s lasting legacy

Joel and Ellie remain the soul of The Last of Us. Their bond, forged in desperation and trust, carried the 2013 game to legendary status. Part II challenged fans with Abby’s perspective, sparking debates that fueled its acclaim, with over 300 awards. The HBO series brought their story to millions, with Pascal and Ramsey earning praise for raw, layered performances. The PS5 edition ensures their journey endures, with enhanced visuals and extras that invite players to rediscover it.

The franchise’s reach extends to academia, where its storytelling is studied, and to music, with Santaolalla’s score performed live globally. The July release, paired with the April premiere, keeps The Last of Us at the forefront of culture, a testament to its power to connect through games, TV, and beyond.