Hello, dear The Last of Us TV series fans! Chances are that you have liked the riveting adaptation of the beloved video game, and surely you’re looking for more television series that can capture the same level of passion and emotion. You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 19 excellent TV shows that replicate the concepts, mood, and thrill of The Last of Us while adding their own unique twists. So, get ready and join us on a trip through these wonderful series that will fascinate you and satisfy your thirst for exciting post-apocalyptic adventures!
19. Doom Patrol – A Unique Blend of Action, Drama, and Comedy
The television series Doom Patrol tells the captivating story of a group of extraordinary outcasts, each possessing unique superpowers that have resulted from the world causing them immense pain. These individuals come together to form a formidable team, striving to use their remarkable abilities for the greater good.
Doom Patrol is a delightful concoction of action, drama, and comedy, featuring characters who learn to accept themselves and others, regardless of their imperfections. This series has the potential to keep you thoroughly entertained for hours on end, and it may even alter your perspective, much like the highly acclaimed video game The Last of Us. Doom Patrol can be streamed on both DC Universe and HBO Max.
18. Fear the Walking Dead – A Thrilling Spin-off in a Familiar World
Fear the Walking Dead is a riveting series created as a spin-off of the immensely popular show, The Walking Dead. Set within the same universe, this series takes viewers back in time to the early days of the zombie apocalypse, revealing the outbreak of the virus and the gradual disintegration of society. The narrative follows a blended family as they struggle for survival, with the primary focus on character development and their internal battles with their darker selves.
Throughout the series, fans can also enjoy crossover appearances from cast members of The Walking Dead, which further emphasizes the interconnectedness of the two shows. For those who love the original series and crave more of its signature style and atmosphere, Fear the Walking Dead is a perfect choice. With its seventh season underway, this spin-off is well on its way to achieving the same level of success as its predecessor.
17. Ash Vs Evil Dead – A Humorous Spin on Zombie Mayhem
While vastly different in tone from the somber and poignant series The Last of Us, Ash vs Evil Dead delivers three seasons of thrilling encounters with zombies and other bloodthirsty creatures. Over thirty years since his initial adventures, the iconic Ash Williams, under the guidance of director Sam Raimi, is called back to action in this series. Despite his plans for a peaceful retirement, a series of unfortunate events, including a blood alcohol level surpassing legal limits, forces Ash to reconsider his role in humanity’s fate.
Reading a few pages of the Necronomicon unleashes dire consequences, prompting Ash to reassemble his arsenal and correct his mistake. Alongside his colleagues Pablo and Kelly from the hardware store, Ash battles supernatural threats while being pursued by two relentless women. This series offers thirty humor-infused episodes, providing a welcome distraction from the real world and the fact that Amazon holds the rights to the adaptation of the Naughty Dog game.
16. All of Us Are Dead – A South Korean Tale of Survival
In The Last of Us, a single bite can prove deadly unless you’re Ellie. The students of South Korea’s All of Us Are Dead series would have eagerly welcomed such immunity. When a mysterious epidemic suddenly sweeps through Hyosan Academy, students begin to fall victim one by one, due to a rogue professor conducting clandestine experiments on rats and allowing them to roam freely.
This zombie apocalypse soon extends beyond the school, engulfing the entire city and prompting the government to declare martial law as the crisis deepens. To survive, each student must confront the tide of zombies that threaten to consume their closest friends. Their previously unappreciated archery lessons suddenly become invaluable. Based on the webtoon Now at Our School, the series has been available on Netflix for nearly a year and, excitingly, will return for a second season at an unspecified date.
15. Station Eleven – A Post-Apocalyptic Journey Through Art
Adapted from Emily St. John’s 2014 post-apocalyptic novel, this mini-series takes place in a world where a devastating flu has wiped out 99% of the population (coincidentally airing during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States). The story follows a traveling theater troupe journeying through the Great Lakes region, emphasizing the importance of art for human survival. With its hopeful message, Station Eleven will undoubtedly resonate with fans of “The Leftovers.”
14. Dark – A German Sci-Fi Series with a Post-Apocalyptic Twist
Dark, a German Netflix original, is best known for its intricate time travel plotlines. Although it’s primarily a sci-fi series, the post-apocalyptic world depicted in one of its timelines bears striking similarities to The Last of Us, featuring a bleak, lifeless landscape populated by desperate outcasts. Created by Baran bo Odar and Jantje Friese, Dark has drawn comparisons to shows like Stranger Things, but its complex narrative quickly sets it apart.
13. Black Summer – A Gritty Prequel to Z Nation
Zombies remain a popular subject, and Netflix has capitalized on this trend by producing original content centered around these monstrous creatures. Released in April 2019, Black Summer immediately captured the attention of zombie and post-apocalyptic enthusiasts. The series follows Rose, played by Jaime King (Sin City, Pearl Harbor), whose life is turned upside down when her husband falls victim to a mysterious virus sweeping the planet, and her daughter is taken from her.
Undeterred by the dangers of this hostile world, Rose joins forces with other survivors in search of their loved ones, determined to reunite with her daughter despite the hordes of zombies standing in her way. The series’ title reflects its dark and intense atmosphere, as the characters confront brutal decisions and challenges. Intriguingly, Black Summer serves as a prequel to another popular show, Z Nation, further adding to its appeal.
12. The Witcher – A Monster Hunter’s Journey
The Witcher, a fantasy series based on the popular video game franchise, follows the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter with supernatural abilities. Geralt traverses continents, undertaking quests and battling fearsome creatures while grappling with his place in a world where humans are often more ruthless than monsters.
Along the way, he encounters Yennefer of Vengerberg, a formidable sorceress, and Ciri, a young princess destined to cross paths with Geralt. The series features action, adventure, and political intrigue, with exceptional world-building and well-developed, engaging characters. Moreover, the high-quality special effects and intense, expertly choreographed fight scenes make The Witcher a must-watch for fans of the genre.
11. Train to Busan – A High-Stakes Battle for Survival
This intense, nerve-wracking film from South Korea begins with a deadly virus outbreak in the capital city of Seoul, turning people into ravenous zombies. However, the struggle for survival isn’t limited to the city streets.
Passengers aboard a train bound for Busan must also fight for their lives against the ever-growing number of infected individuals. The relentless movement of the train adds to the tension, as there is no escape from the harrowing situation. Zombie Express (Train to Busan) is a must-watch for those who can handle the suspense and terror.
10. The Leftovers – A Hauntingly Beautiful HBO Series
The Leftovers, a mesmerizing and deeply moving HBO series, begins with a mysterious event: on October 14, 2011, 2% of the world’s population vanishes without a trace. The sudden disappearances occur in everyday locations—kitchens, car backseats, supermarket parking lots—leaving families bereft of one or more loved ones.
As time passes, the psychological impact on those left behind becomes increasingly evident. The Leftovers, created by Damon Lindelof, deviates from the traditional themes of zombies, blood, and horror, and instead immerses viewers in a world of poignant melancholy. Over the course of three seasons, the show captivates its audience with an engaging plot and an exceptional cast, all complemented by the exquisite soundtrack composed by Max Richter.
9. Zoo – Love amid a Zombie Invasion
Zoo offers a unique twist on the apocalyptic genre as it follows a couple, John and Karen, trapped in their apartment during a zombie outbreak. The situation becomes even more interesting as they are on the verge of divorce. Balancing both drama and comedy, the film showcases the couple arguing over mundane matters while the world outside descends into chaos and bloodshed. Zoo’s refreshing take on the genre makes this love story set against the backdrop of a zombie invasion an endearing and captivating watch.
8. The 100 – A Dystopian Adventure
Continuing in the realm of science fiction, The 100 is a series that has been airing since 2014 and is available on Netflix. It paints a picture of a world devastated by nuclear war, with survivors living on a deteriorating space station. As the inhabitants’ lives are endangered, the governing Council decides to send juvenile delinquents to Earth to determine its habitability.
Upon arrival, the young explorers find a planet teeming with life, but also fraught with danger and hostility. Led by Eliza Taylor, The 100’s young cast caters to fans of teen dramas who also appreciate post-apocalyptic and dystopian themes. The show is remembered for its narrative consistency, thought-provoking themes, and its portrayal of the dangers of nuclear power and environmental conservation.
7. Z Nation – A Unique Approach to Zombies
Z Nation presents a fascinating divergence from the traditional zombie narrative, originating from the renowned production studio, The Asylum, which is well-known for its low-budget horror films with less-than-stellar special effects. While the series seeks to emulate the success of the more popular The Walking Dead, it situates itself in a captivating post-apocalyptic zombie world that is both imaginative and creative. When approached with a light-hearted attitude, Z Nation offers its audience a thrilling and entertaining experience.
One standout performance comes from Keith Allan, who plays Murphy, the “patient 0” character reminiscent of Ellie from The Last of Us. Although bitten by a zombie, Murphy remains unaffected, and a group of survivors must transport him to a research center in hopes of developing a vaccine. However, Murphy has little interest in saving humanity. Viewers can enjoy Z Nation and its spin-off, Black Summer, on Netflix.
6. Chernobyl – A Harrowing Tale of Disaster
Chernobyl, a must-watch series created by Craig Mazin (also the co-creator of The Last of Us TV series), delves into the true story of the 1986 nuclear catastrophe in the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. The series masterfully covers the events leading up to the disaster, the devastating aftermath, and the struggles faced by those who sought to survive and rebuild.
In this way, it bears a connection to The Last of Us. The series focuses on a group of scientists, politicians, and workers tasked with investigating and containing the disaster, as well as providing support for the victims’ families. It serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of political ignorance and its impact on human civilization. Chernobyl is available for streaming on Hulu, HBO Max, Vudu, and Spectrum TV.
5. Kingdom – Zombies Meet Historical Fiction
Zombie narratives are not limited to the familiar settings of The Last of Us. The Kingdom series, set during Korea’s medieval Joseon period, offers viewers an intriguing blend of historical drama and zombie horror. As a mysterious virus threatens to destabilize the already troubled royal lands, crown prince Chang and his loyal companion Moo-Young embark on a journey to uncover the origins of this monstrous affliction.
With two six-episode seasons available on Netflix, Kingdom captivates audiences with its stunning sets, unique atmosphere, and intense moments of tension. Here, battles are fought with swords and bows rather than firearms, adding a thrilling dimension to the show.
4. The Rain – A Post-Apocalyptic Scandinavian Odyssey
The Rain is a Danish Netflix series that follows siblings Rasmus and Simone, portrayed by Lucas Lynggaard Tønnesen and Alba August, as they navigate a virus-ridden Scandinavia where rain has become lethal. After spending six years in a maximum-security bunker, the siblings are forced to venture out in search of their scientist father who may hold the key to understanding the virus and Rasmus’s immunity
As the series, created by Jannik Tai Mosholt, Esben Toft Jacobsen, and Christian Potalivo, reaches its conclusion with the third season, viewers are left to ponder the mysteries surrounding Rasmus’s immunity and the possibility of a cure for the deadly virus.
3. Yellowjackets – A Haunting Story of Resilience and Trauma
For those who vividly recall the plane crash scenes from “Grey’s Anatomy” or the iconic series “Lost,” “Yellowjackets” may prove to be an even more impactful and gripping tale. In 1996, a high school girls’ soccer team travels from New Jersey to Seattle for a match, only to have their plane crash in the wilderness.
While many passengers perish instantly, the survivors endure a grueling nineteen-month ordeal, resorting to any means necessary to stay alive. The series alternates between flashbacks and flash-forwards, revealing the fates of the survivors while raising questions about their experiences and the lasting impact of their trauma.
2. Daybreak – A Quest for Love in a Post-Apocalyptic World
Similar to Black Summer, Daybreak’s protagonist embarks on a journey to find a loved one. Josh, a high school student tormented by a group of athletes, leads an ordinary life until a catastrophic explosion destroys part of California, including Glendale. The aftermath leaves the surviving teens without parental supervision but surrounded by zombie-like creatures. The city becomes divided into stereotypical factions such as athletes, intellectuals, and cheerleaders.
Although Josh now has the freedom to be as “cool” as he desires, he is haunted by the disappearance of his girlfriend, Sam Dean, following the explosion. As he sets out to find her, he is joined by two unlikely allies, pyromaniac Angelica and former bully-turned-pacifist Wesley. While searching for Sam, the trio must navigate zombie-infested areas and confront various territorial gangs. Sadly, Daybreak offers only one season to sink your teeth into.
1. The Walking Dead – A Saga of Human Resilience and Conflict
The enthralling world created by Robert Kirkman captivates audiences with the personal stories of survivors navigating a post-apocalyptic landscape, battling each other for dominance and control over the remnants of a society brought to its knees by violence. Led by Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln), the group soon discovers that there is no cure for the zombie virus (which Kirkman attributes to extraterrestrial spores, as an homage to Romero’s films) and attempts to establish a new civilization by forming alliances with other groups of survivors. This endeavor is often fraught with difficulty, as The Last of Us poignantly illustrates how individuals on the brink of collapse can become ruthlessly self-interested.
That’s all there is to it, guys! These are our top 19 selections for TV shows that are similar to The Last of Us, and we have no doubt that many of them will appeal to you. These shows not only provide fascinating post-apocalyptic environments to explore, but they also engage your feelings with tales of survival, love, and the intricacies of human nature. So, give these series a shot; we promise they’ll help you substitute the emptiness left by The Last of Us. And who knows? In the process, you could find your next favorite show! Enjoy watching, and do leave your opinions and suggestions in the comments below.
