10 TV Shows To Watch If You Love The Last Of Us

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Titled “The Last of Us,” this gripping HBO series is modeled after the popular video game of the same name, but unlike most video game adaptations, it garnered significant critical acclaim as a prestigious television production. The story unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world where a lethal virus has nearly decimated the human population, leaving behind hordes of aggressive zombies. Joel (Pedro Pascal) is assigned to guide Ellie (Bella Ramsey) through a perilous nation, with the survival of mankind resting on their shoulders. During their journey, they encounter both allies and adversaries while battling numerous treacherous creatures.

2025 saw the arrival of season 2 for “The Last of Us”, a time when more terror from this world was unleashed upon us. Yet, even as we eagerly wait for the next chapter in this apocalyptic saga, there are other captivating shows out there that delve into similar themes – loss of humanity, impossible decisions, and the struggle for survival in a harsh world.

“The Last of Us” is not merely a zombie-apocalypse show; it’s a profound exploration of humanity’s darkest corners. And just as it masterfully blends post-apocalyptic terror with an intense atmosphere, these alternative shows do the same, providing a thrilling and chilling experience. If you’re a fan of “The Last of Us”, I strongly recommend giving these equally engaging options a try.

10. The Mist (2017)

A Dense Fog Brings Dangerous Monsters To A Small Town

In this intriguing sci-fi horror series based on Stephen King’s 1980 novella, “The Mist,” a mysterious fog envelopes Bridgeville, Maine. Finding themselves imprisoned in town by an eerie vapor and the terrifying creatures lurking within it, survivors must not only defend themselves against the unknown but also confront the risks posed by their fellow trapped citizens. Although the film adaptation’s ending is often discussed, the television version of this gripping story is equally captivating and definitely worth your time.

Topics like lethal creatures, decaying civilization, and mistrustful survivors are common in fans of The Last Of U. Interestingly, both shows share a striking similarity: humans can be equally or even more threatening than the monsters themselves. In The Mist, it’s a zealot who thinks a sacrifice is necessary to placate God and end the monster attacks. Sadly, the series ended after just one season, leaving many questions unanswered.

9. Snowpiercer (2020-2022)

The Survivors Of A New Ice Age Onboard A Self-Sustaining Train

This gripping post-apocalyptic tale has found success in various media platforms, with its roots tracing back to the French graphic novel “Snow Piercer.” Subsequently, it was transformed into a film by the acclaimed director Bong Joon-ho, who later won an Oscar for “Parasite.” More recently, it was developed into a TV series titled “Snow Piercer.” Seven years post Earth’s transformation into a frigid wasteland uninhabitable by humans, the survivors’ last refuge is aboard a train that perpetually traverses the world.

In the post-apocalyptic setting of ‘Snowpiercer’, the remnants of humanity reside within a perpetually moving train, which is segmented into distinct social strata. The affluent dwell at the front, indulging in all their desires, while those with lesser means inhabit the central section. The impoverished are relegated to the rear carriages, barely managing to survive. As tensions rise due to this class divide, a rebellion ignites within the confined train. Unlike the film version, the story concludes with the characters discovering optimism in the outside world, reminiscent of ‘The Last Of Us’, where survival becomes a priority, resources are scarce, and individuals often turn against each other, while being closely monitored by oppressive authorities enforcing class distinctions.

8. The Walking Dead (2011-2022)

The Most Successful Zombie Apocalypse TV Series

In its heyday, the cable television show known as “The Walking Dead” focused on a band of diverse individuals trying to endure in a world overrun by zombies after an apocalypse. Originating from Robert Kirkman’s widely-read comic book series, these survivors find themselves battling other human groups just as much as they do the undead. The storyline delves into themes like found family, survival, and the quest for a cure. Fans of “The Last Of Us” would likely appreciate this critically acclaimed AMC program.

In the second season of “The Last of Us”, viewers discover that not all antagonists are truly evil; they too have their reasons for survival in the post-apocalyptic world. This theme is also present in “The Walking Dead”, notably with characters like Negan and Abby. The original “Walking Dead” series concluded after 11 seasons and 177 episodes, but the story has lived on through various spinoffs, focusing on characters such as Rick, Michonne, Carol, Daryl, Maggie, and even Negan.

7. The 100 (2014-2020)

Teens In An Apocalyptic Future WIth A Ravaged Earth

In a universe where Earth was rendered unlivable due to nuclear catastrophe, the story The 100, inspired by Kass Morgan’s young adult novel series, unfolds. The survivors of humanity sought refuge in a space station called “The Ark,” where they lived for many decades. Over ninety years later, it is decided to send a contingent of one hundred troubled adolescents back to the desolate Earth to ascertain if it’s feasible for mankind to return one day. Upon their arrival, they discover that not all humans perished after the catastrophe.

The show concluded around the middle of 2020, wrapping up an impressive seven-season stretch that included 100 episodes. Initially, “The Last of Us” depicted Joel safeguarding Ellie, but now it focuses on Ellie’s journey, accompanied by her companions and a new adversary named Abby. Similar to “The Last of Us,” “The 100” presents young characters navigating a world teeming with monsters and lethal perils, demonstrating their resilience and survival tactics in this treacherous landscape.

6. Z Nation (2014-2018)

The SyFy Answer To The Walking Dead

As a movie critic, I must confess, it’s hardly unexpected to find a sprinkle of zombie-themed series when stacked against the gritty, roaming hordes depicted in “The Last of Us.” The narrative of “Z Nation,” while brimming with humor, shares an uncanny resemblance with this critically acclaimed series. Unlike its somber counterpart, “Z Nation” is a black comedy rather than a drama, set years after an outbreak that heralded the dawn of the zombie apocalypse. Remarkably, only one individual has ever emerged unscathed from infection. Accompanied by a band of survivors, he embarks on a journey from New York to California. His survival might just be mankind’s final shot at a vaccine, potentially saving our world.

In a fashion reminiscent of the storyline in ‘The Last of Us’, Ellie, who is immune to the virus, avoids turning into a monster. However, unlike ‘The Last of Us’, where a single man escorted Ellie to safety, this series follows a band of survivors, headed by a skilled soldier. The television show ‘Z Nation’ aired on SyFy from 2014 to 2018 and completed five seasons in total.

5. The Purge (2018-2019)

A Dystopian Future Where The Government Allows One Night Of Crime

In The Last of Us, it’s clear that the government’s response to societal collapse proved just as lethal as the outbreak itself. The Federal Disaster Response Agency seized power over the U.S. government, enforcing quarantine zones, imposing martial law, and disbanding other administrative bodies. They subsequently targeted dissidents and ultimately protected only the major cities. This is distinct from The Purge, where a functioning government exists albeit one that’s been tainted by corruption.

In “The Purge,” a new political group called The New Founding Fathers of America proposed an unusual solution to escalating crime: making all forms of crime, including murder, legal once a year. Unlike many post-apocalyptic series, “The Purge” isn’t set after a catastrophe. Instead, it delves deeper into the ideas presented in the “The Purge” movie franchise from various viewpoints. The show aired for two seasons on USA Network before its cancellation.

4. Attack On Titan (2013-2023)

Giant Monsters Ravage The Earth

100 years following mankind’s subjugation by colossal, human-devouring beasts known as Titans, a determined youth pledges to end their tyranny. In a world where survivors battle against extinction, confronting monstrous threats, and a potential solution lies within a character’s blood, “Attack On Titan” is an excellent alternative for fans of “The Last Of Us” who prefer watching anime over live-action television.

In essence, while there’s a shift from live-action to anime between “The Last of Us” and “Attack on Titan”, a key distinction lies in the nature of their monsters. Unlike the infected humans in “The Last of Us”, the Titans in “Attack on Titan” are an alien species, not humans who have been transformed. The Titans pose a greater threat than many mutated humans in “The Last of Us”, and both shows depict the overwhelming challenge of defeating hordes of them as nearly impossible.

3. 12 Monkeys (2015-2018)

A Man Is Sent Back In Time To Prevent The Apocalypse

In this TV series adaptation, a traveler from a devastated future journeys back to our time with the goal of preventing global catastrophe. Originating from a bleak future where a virus has pushed mankind to the edge of annihilation, the human race is left with just one final opportunity to halt this impending doom. Airing on SyFy in 2015, 12 Monkeys spanned four seasons until its dramatic conclusion.

Indeed, there’s a significant distinction between “12 Monkeys” and “The Last of Us.” While “12 Monkeys” revolves around a protagonist who attempts to halt the dissemination of a plague that annihilates mankind, “The Last of Us” centers around a plague that spawns terrifying creatures. Essentially, one is more science fiction-oriented while the other leans towards horror. Yet, they share a common thread: both involve seeking a remedy for the world’s ills and overcoming obstacles, which frequently include formidable institutions or individuals.

2. The Walking Dead: World Beyond (2020-2021)

The Walking Dead From A Young Adult’s POV

If you’re drawn to Ellie’s thrilling adventures across a post-apocalyptic America, battling the undead and showcasing resilience in her youth, then it’s worth checking out The Walking Dead: World Beyond. This gripping drama focuses on a band of naive teenagers who are forced to battle for survival as they traverse infested cities and haunting ghost towns, seeking a father and potentially forming a new family in the process. The show ran for two seasons and presented a cast of characters who were the first generation born following the apocalypse.

Surely, it’s important to note that this scenario differs from “The Last of Us,” as the group in question did not exist when the apocalypse initially occurred, whereas Joel was present since day one. Despite this discrepancy, both narratives share common themes; they both portray teenagers battling for survival amidst infected, zombie-like creatures. Additionally, they both reveal that the post-apocalyptic world is not only populated by these monsters but also by humans who pose just as great a threat. Sadly, many would prefer to see these young adults perish rather than be enlightened about the reality of their current existence.

1. The Stand (2020)

A Virus Wipes Out Most Of Humanity

Exploring another adaptation from Stephen King, “The Stand” delves into how despair paves the way for wickedness to prevail. In a post-disaster landscape decimated by a man-made plague that claims 99% of the world’s population, the fortunate survivors unite. Concurrently, a perilous, deceptive messiah rises, culminating in an epic struggle reminiscent of biblical wars. The sinister and self-serving individuals align with Randall Flagg, while those with kind hearts rally to confront Flagg’s forces in the impending battle for humankind’s future.

According to Stephen King’s renowned work, “The Stand” is a CBS miniseries featuring well-known actors like James Marsden, Alexander Skarsgård, and Whoopi Goldberg. Previously, the novel was transformed into an ABC miniseries in the 1990s, with Molly Ringwald, Gary Sinise, and Rob Lowe taking on leading roles. Similar to “The Last of Us,” this series revolves around human survivors who must decide between good and evil as they strive to protect their world, having lasted only one season with nine episodes.

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2025-04-22 22:21