9.1/10112,073 votes#1 - When You're Lost in the Darkness
Season 1 Episode 1 - Aired 1/15/2023
2003. As a parasitic fungal outbreak begins to ravage the country and the world, Joel Miller attempts to escape the escalating chaos with his daughter and brother. Twenty years later, a now hardened Joel and his partner Tess fight to survive under a totalitarian regime, while the insurgent Fireflies harbor a teenage girl with a unique gift.
Director: Craig Mazin
Writer: Craig Mazin, Neil Druckmann
9.1/10102,962 votes#2 - 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.
Director: Neil Druckmann
Writer: Craig Mazin
8.1/10228,195 votes#3 - 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.
Director: Peter Hoar
Writer: Craig Mazin
8.4/1069,643 votes#4 - 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 a 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.
Director: Jeremy Webb
Writer: Craig Mazin
9.4/1079,792 votes#5 - Endure and Survive
Season 1 Episode 5 - Aired 2/12/2023
On the streets of a newly free Kansas City, Henry fights to protect his brother Sam from rebel soldiers who will stop at nothing to appease their ruthless leader. As her manhunt continues, Kathleen doubles down on her quest for revenge, while Ellie forms a meaningful friendship.
Director: Jeremy Webb
Writer: Craig Mazin
8.8/1058,215 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.
Director: Jasmila Žbanić
Writer: Craig Mazin
7.4/1068,854 votes#7 - 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 course of both of their lives – and the fate of the world – forever.
Director: Liza Johnson
Writer: Neil Druckmann
9.3/1058,988 votes#8 - 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.
Director: Ali Abbasi
Writer: Craig Mazin
9.0/1045,465 votes#9 - 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.
Director: Ali Abbasi
Writer: Craig Mazin, Neil Druckmann
The Best Episodes of The Last of Us Season 1
Every episode of The Last of Us Season 1 ranked from best to worst. Discover the Best Episodes of The Last of Us Season 1!
Twenty years after modern civilization has been destroyed, Joel, a hardened survivor, is hired to smuggle Ellie, a 14-year-old girl, out of an oppressive quarantine...
Genre:Drama
Network:HBO
Season 1 Ratings Summary
"When You're Lost in the Darkness" is the best rated episode of "The Last of Us" season 1. It scored 9.1/10 based on 112073 votes. Directed by Craig Mazin and written by Craig Mazin, Neil Druckmann, it aired on 1/15/2023. This episode is rated 0.0 points higher than the second-best, "Infected".