The BEST episodes of The Last of Us season 1

Every episode of The Last of Us season 1, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of The Last of Us season 1!

In 2003, a parasitic fungal infection ravaged the planet, turning humans into violent creatures known as the Infected. Twenty years later, hardened survivor Joel is hired to smuggle 14-year-old Ellie to the rebel Fireflies.

Last Updated: 4/29/2025Network: HBOStatus: Continuing
Endure and Survive
star
8.39
6743 votes

#1 - Endure and Survive

Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 2/12/2023

While attempting to evade the rebels, Joel and Ellie cross paths with the most wanted man in Kansas City. Kathleen continues her hunt.

Directors: Jeremy Webb
Writer: Craig Mazin
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
When We Are in Need
star
8.32
6249 votes

#2 - When We Are in Need

Season 1 - Episode 8 - Aired 3/5/2023

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.

Directors: Ali Abbasi
Writer: Craig Mazin
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
When You're Lost in the Darkness
star
8.28
8646 votes

#3 - When You're Lost in the Darkness

Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 1/15/2023

Twenty years after a fungal outbreak ravages the planet, survivors Joel and Tess are tasked with a mission that could change everything.

Directors: Craig Mazin
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Infected
star
8.22
7584 votes

#4 - Infected

Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 1/22/2023

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.

Directors: Neil Druckmann
Writer: Craig Mazin
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Look for the Light
star
8.20
6194 votes

#5 - Look for the Light

Season 1 - Episode 9 - Aired 3/12/2023

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.

Directors: Ali Abbasi
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Kin
star
8.08
6344 votes

#6 - Kin

Season 1 - Episode 6 - Aired 2/19/2023

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.

Directors: Jasmila Zbanic
Writer: Craig Mazin
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Long, Long Time
star
8.02
8331 votes

#7 - Long, Long Time

Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 1/29/2023

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.

Directors: Peter Hoar
Writer: Craig Mazin
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Please Hold to My Hand
star
7.80
6646 votes

#8 - Please Hold to My Hand

Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 2/5/2023

After a harrowing trek across a desolate United States, Joel and Ellie find themselves navigating 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.

Directors: Jeremy Webb
Writer: Craig Mazin
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Left Behind
star
7.48
6271 votes

#9 - Left Behind

Season 1 - Episode 7 - Aired 2/26/2023

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 fate of the world forever.

Directors: Liza Johnson
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV