The newest episode for “The Last of Us” was released, and fans have innumerable emotions for it. It begins with Joel and Ellie, but then takes an unexpected turn that left viewers devastated.

The only complaint this episode warrants is the fact that fans didn’t get the banter between Ellie and Bill like in the game. In fact, Bill and Ellie didn’t even meet, unlike in the first game, where the duo dislikes each other and has some of the funniest, petty interactions in the entire game. It was a little disappointing to not see this, but the episode’s greatness makes up for it entirely.

First of all, the fleshing out of Bill’s character was a brilliant idea. He was already an interesting concept, since he was an intense survivalist, with traps around his base and plenty of preparation; it was great to see him expanded on. Not only this, but shining some light on Frank as a character was also a fantastic addition. Players of the game don’t even get to meet Frank, just witness that he had committed suicide. Viewers appreciated this, considering LGBT couples receive little-to-no representation. It was a wonderful flip to dedicate an entire episode to a gay couple who previously had no screen time together.

Quite frankly, people have argued this episode had told one of the greatest queer stories, which is astonishing knowing they’re only featured in a single episode. It’s hard to say otherwise after seeing it, however. The relationship the episode built was beautiful; in such little time watchers grew so attached to the two. The quickness of their romance beginning was accurate, as well. It truly showcased how desperate and yearning humans can be for contact with one another in such a situation.

The ending was absolutely despairing. The writers were nothing short of cruel for getting viewers to care so deeply for the couple, then killing them off in such a heartbreaking yet strangely beautiful fashion. Overall, it was arguably the best episode yet.

Rating: 5/5 stars.