The Last Of Us Part 2 - What We Know So Far

The Last of Us Part 2 is easily one of the most anticipated games of the decade. Thanks to the fascinating worldbuilding, immersive game mechanics, and compelling characters, its predecessor is hailed as one of the best narrative games out there. The sequel seems poised to follow suit.

Part 2 will explore the story of one of those fan-favorite characters: Ellie. Her no-holds-barred mission of revenge is one players are eager to experience, but you'll have to wait a little longer than expected to see it play out. From the release date to special editions, here's what you need to know about The Last of Us Part 2.

After a few delays, fans were expecting to return to Ellie and Joel's post-apocalyptic world on May 29. This date was decided on before a global pandemic broke out, eerily echoing the events of the first game. Because of the spread of COVID-19, publisher Sony made the decision to indefinitely delay the release of the game. This was done to preserve the goal of "providing the launch experience our players deserve."

Fans were nervous about the word "indefinite" despite reassurances by writer and series creator Neil Druckmann that he and Sony were working to release the game as soon as possible. Thankfully, you won't have to wait much longer to get your hands on it. Sony announced The Last of Us Part 2 will release on June 19.

As you wait for the new release date, there are plenty of trailers to comb for details. The very first trailer arrived in 2016, showing a grown and bloodied Ellie determined to "find and kill every last one of them." Over the years, more trailers trickled out, and the second teaser trailer in 2017 finally gave fans a hint as to who is on Ellie's hit list. Not for the faint of heart, this trailer showed a group with a penchant for extreme, ritualistic violence. 

It wasn't until E3 2018 that Naught Dog shared a less bleak moment in Ellie's future: a dance and a kiss. This was followed up with gameplay, which has evolved since the release of the first game but still focuses on stealth and strategy. Sometimes Ellie is discovered, however, and she has no trouble with hand-to-hand combat, as shown in the final, release date reveal trailer. 

While you likely won't see any new trailers for now, there are plenty of impressive fan made trailers to enjoy.

In addition to the typical physical or digital release, Naughty Dog and PlayStation have seen fit to add some bonus items for those willing to shell out a little extra cash. Pre-ordering either a digital or physical copy comes with some in-game perks, but the Digital Deluxe Edition also features a digital soundtrack, a digital art book, a dynamic PS4 theme, and 6 PSN avatars. 

If you're more into physical collectibles, look no further than the Special Edition, which has all the perks of the Digital Deluxe version plus a steelbook and a 48 page mini art book. For super fans, you can get all this and a 12" Ellie figurine, a replica of Ellie's bracelet, 6 enamel pins, 5 stickers, and an art print and thank you letter in the Collector's Edition. Super duper fans can get everything plus a replica of Ellie's backpack, a logo patch, and even a 7" vinyl of the soundtrack in the aptly named Ellie Edition.