HBO’s The Last of Us continues its quest for revenge with the latest episode “Feel Her Love”. We’ve had some highs and lows with the show and this was a high for the most part, efficiently hitting some key moments, and smartly linking its lore back to the game.

There will be story spoilers in this review.

Having survived their first day in Seattle by the skin of their teeth, things aren’t getting any easier for Ellie and Dina. Now a firm couple, the duo are aiming their sights on a nearby hospital, in the hope of tracking down a member of Abby’s gang.

Isabella Merced is once again proving to be the standout of this series, delivering some impactful scenes and a much more driven take on the character. But this is a big episode for Bella Ramsey, who’s got some meaty scenes ahead of them in the coming episodes.

However, for us Ramsey is lacking that punch. This portion of the story is when the real flaws in the character come to the forefront, showcasing recklessness, hatred, rage, and cruel sadistic streak. None of it comes across as poignantly as Ashley Johnson’s portrayal in the game.

While inevitable, we do try to avoid comparing every facet of the show to the game — they are of their own existence after all. However, whether it be through writing or performance, Ellie has been lacking the depth in this rendition of the story, and it shows in some of the key moments in this episode.

That’s not to say they are bad, because they are actually quite entertaining. It’s just a shame that what we got in the game was (in our opinion) a bona fide masterpiece, yet television audiences are experiencing something that’s great at best.

However, while the big emotional scenes are our concern going forward, this latest episode is yet another showcase of the brilliant tension the show is able to conjure up. Flowing from run-ins with the infected to a rather gutsy second impression of the Seraphites, this latest episode is always tightening and loosening its grip.

It all culminates in a chilling scene which sees the introduction of spores. With spores being the main way of infection in the game, it was an intriguing change with the show to opt for its tendril connections, although ultimately one that we really enjoyed.

However, we were giddy at the prospect of spores being brought back into the show, and done so in a way that also teases a huge moment in the game (albeit one presumably being saved for season three). It’s an effective twist for new viewers, and a great full circle moment for fans of the games.

We’ve had a pretty action packed couple of episodes, which always showcases the strengths of this adaptation. However, as we move into some pretty hefty emotional moments, this is when the show will really prove its worth. With just two episodes to go, we’ve got our fingers crossed that Mazin and co are able to pull it off.

What did you think of the latest episode of The Last of Us Season 2? Stick on your gas mask and head down to the comments below.