Who Are The WLF in The Last of Us Season 2 and Why They Matter

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Warning: This content contains significant spoilers for Season 2, Episode 2 of “The Last of Us” television series, as well as for the video game “The Last of Us Part II.” Proceed with caution if you wish to avoid these spoilers.

In The Last of Us season 2, one of the key factions from the games has been introduced and will significantly impact the upcoming episodes. This new season features a larger cast, shifting focus from the main duo seen in previous seasons, to an ensemble instead. The first season presented various groups, such as the Fireflies, FEDRA, and Kansas City resistance, without defining them as right or wrong. This ambiguity will continue to be explored in season 2.

In the chaotic world depicted in the TV series, The Last of Us, alliances arise and disintegrate swiftly, showcasing the brutal and unstable nature of its universe. In season 2, episode 2, we witness Jackson, a tranquil utopia, being overrun by infected, emphasizing the show’s turbulence. A pivotal scene in season 2 involves Abby, a fresh character, hunting down and slaying Joel Miller. The members of Abby’s group are distinctively marked with emblems that read “WLF,” introducing a significant new faction to the storyline.

WLF Stands For Washington Liberation Front In The Last Of Us

WLF Members Are Generally Referred To As Wolves

In the game “The Last of Us Part II,” the Washington Liberation Front (WLF), commonly known as “Wolves,” plays a significant role in the Seattle storyline, which forms the core of the narrative. The WLF is essentially a powerful paramilitary group in the world of “The Last of Us,” boasting some of the most advanced resources and military technology available.

The WLF Controlled Seattle After Overthrowing FEDRA

WLF Became What They Hated

In the fictional universe of “The Last of Us,” FEDRA was a U.S. government agency that played a significant role in managing city quarantine zones at the onset of the outbreak. Over time, much like Boston demonstrated in season 1, FEDRA’s authoritarian rule often led to widespread discontent and resistance, resulting in the emergence of rebellious factions. The series frequently delves into a pattern where these resistance groups, once they gain power, end up mirroring the very oppressive regimes they initially opposed. In “The Last of Us Part II,” it is the WLF that embodies this role.

Emma and Jason Patterson, two individuals known as, founded WLF as a reaction to FEDRA’s shocking conduct in the Seattle region, where initially tranquil demonstrations soon escalated into violent retaliation. Tragically, the Pattersons were later murdered, and Isaac Dixon rose to power within WLF through force and brutality, playing a crucial role in defeating FEDRA and claiming control of most of Seattle for his faction. Instead of granting freedom to the city, WLF transformed into the new ruling administration, compelling the remaining residents to align with them.

Abby’s Group Joined The WLF After The Fireflies Disbanded

Joel Describes Abby’s Group As Military; He’s Not Wrong

In the premiere of The Last of Us season 2, Abby and her companions were initially part of the Fireflies in Salt Lake City before the five-year time jump. After Joel’s attack on Saint Mary’s Hospital and the death of Abby’s father, the Fireflies were all but wiped out, forcing them to make their way north to Seattle and align with WLF, a decision they’ve since come to feel ambivalent about.

Abby and her group have resided in Seattle for numerous years, yet the game’s flashbacks suggest that her quest for joy was frequently overshadowed by her thirst for vengeance against Joel. Similar to Ellie, Dina, and Jesse in Jackson, the individuals dwelling in Seattle have known both the ecstasy and sorrow of their own romantic entanglements and friendships. Despite Jackson’s efforts to maintain tranquility by safeguarding its citizens from Infected and external threats, WLF has persisted in their battle for dominance over the city.

The WLF’s War With The Seraphites Explained

WLF Still Fights For Control Of Seattle

Following FEDRA’s collapse, WLF progressively grew more antagonistic over time, primarily targeting the Seraphites – a faction who departed the central city to establish themselves on a neighboring island. While Wolves often called them Scars, this term was offensive to the Seraphites because they had evolved into a religious sect under the enigmatic guidance of a figure known as the Prophet. The Seraphites are the most intriguing group portrayed in the games, adhering strictly to rules that forbid the use of any artifacts from the “old world,” such as firearms.

In the video game, the Wolves and the Seraphites clash violently when the Prophet orchestrates an attack on a WLF supply unit, resulting in numerous casualties and wrecked vehicles. Contrary to his role of safeguarding his people, Isaac is depicted as a relentless figure, focusing more on waging war against the Seraphites. The game narrative unfolds with an imminent invasion led by Isaac, placing the main characters right in the heart of a devastating war, as the WLF gears up for a decisive battle against their adversaries, amassing all their ships to target the Seraphite Island.

What Happened To The Washington Liberation Front In The Last Of Us

WLF’s Fate Isn’t Entirely Clear

In the finale of “The Last of Us Part II”, several aspects remain unclear as the viewpoint characters depart from Seattle before we witness the end of the war. The Worldwide Liberation Front (WLF) launches a full-scale attack on the Seraphite Island, resulting in a destructive battle that takes a toll on both sides. Abby finds herself caught in the midst of this conflict and eventually encounters Isaac, whom she had earlier disobeyed orders to assist with the war. Isaac gets fatally wounded from behind, and subsequently, a broadcast is aired, detailing the aftermath of the invasion.

In the game “The Last of Us”, it’s clear that the Seraphites managed to push back WLF from their island, but in doing so, their own establishments were set ablaze during the invasion. This suggests a Pyrrhic victory for the Seraphites, as while they may have won the immediate battle, the cost was significant. The fate of WLF after this conflict is left uncertain in the game; they could regroup with the remaining members, or disperse like the Fireflies, spreading among other cities and factions. It remains to be seen how their story unfolds, maybe the HBO adaptation will provide more clarity.

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2025-04-21 14:08