Is The Last of Us Copying The Walking Dead? The Debate That’s Dividing Fans!

The zombie apocalypse genre has had its fair share of legendary stories, but now a heated debate is sparking across fan communities: Is The Last of Us just a copy of The Walking Dead?

With HBO’s The Last of Us gaining massive popularity, many are pointing out the eerie similarities between the two franchises. Both feature:
A post-apocalyptic world overrun by dangerous creatures
Survivors navigating moral dilemmas and brutal conflicts
A tough, bearded protagonist with a tragic past (Joel vs. Rick)
A younger companion who represents hope for the future (Ellie vs. Carl/Judith)

But does that mean The Last of Us is simply riding on The Walking Dead’s success, or is there more to the story? Let’s break it down!

The Key Differences: More Than Just Another Zombie Story?

While both series involve a deadly outbreak, there’s one major distinction:
 The Last of Us is based on a scientific fungal infection (Cordyceps) that turns humans into terrifying clickers, while The Walking Dead revolves around an undead virus that reanimates the dead.

But that’s not the only difference!

 Focus on Relationships vs. Survival Horror

The Walking Dead builds a vast world of survivors, emphasizing long-term survival, power struggles, and group dynamics.
The Last of Us is a more intimate, character-driven story that revolves around Joel and Ellie’s emotional journey.

 The Tone: Gritty Realism vs. Emotional Tragedy

TWD thrives on shock factor, sudden character deaths, and endless war between factions.
TLOU leans into raw emotions, with a cinematic storytelling approach that hits deeper psychological notes.

 Villains & Threats

TWD gave us iconic villains like The Governor and Negan, focusing on human cruelty in a lawless world.
TLOU introduces morally gray figures like David and FEDRA, but the true horror often comes from Joel’s own choices.

So, Is It Really Copying The Walking Dead?

 Verdict: NO! While the two franchises share similar apocalyptic themes, their execution is wildly different.

 The Last of Us offers a more personal, emotional narrative, while The Walking Dead builds a long-term, ever-expanding survival epic.
 TWD is about society rebuilding, while TLOU is about one relationship surviving at all costs.

If anything, The Last of Us is pushing the zombie genre in a new direction, proving that apocalypse stories can still be fresh and heartbreaking.

 What do YOU think? Is The Last of Us too similar to The Walking Dead, or does it stand on its own? Let’s hear your thoughts!