MOVIE NEWS – For years, The Walking Dead dominated zombie television. However, as its popularity faded, The Last of Us stepped up, bringing with it a far more chilling and relentless threat.

Only months after The Walking Dead wrapped up, a new apocalypse-themed series took center stage. Though both shows feature survivors in a world ravaged by a form of zombified threat, the differences between their monsters set them far apart. Unlike The Walking Dead’s slower, less intimidating walkers, The Last of Us introduces terrifying creatures like clickers, runners, and bloaters, transforming simple survival into constant peril. This heightened threat level significantly contributed to the new series’ popularity.

Throughout the 2010s, The Walking Dead was the epitome of zombie television, consistently attracting 14-15 million viewers at its peak. Over time, however, its popularity diminished, eventually drawing only a fraction of its former audience. The Last of Us emerged in this post-zombie-boom environment, using familiar apocalyptic themes—yet presenting them in a unique way.

The Infected in ‘The Last of Us’ Are Far More Dangerous

Unlike The Walking Dead, which initially avoided explaining its zombie outbreak, The Last of Us bases its horror explicitly on a realistic fungal infection known as Cordyceps. These infected individuals remain alive yet lose control over their bodies, creating a deeper, psychologically unsettling terror than traditional undead zombies. This aspect intensifies the horror, as victims might retain some awareness while their bodies perform violent acts beyond their control.

Furthermore, the infected in The Last of Us are faster and more aggressive. Encountering one, especially unarmed, almost guarantees a deadly outcome. Infection itself is an ever-present threat, meaning survivors constantly live with dread. This sense of perpetual danger has proven highly effective with audiences, contributing to the series’ immense popularity and critical acclaim.

The Last of Us Season 2 premieres on HBO and Max on April 13, while The Walking Dead is available in full on Netflix.

Source: MovieWeb