The story is set twenty years after a modern civilization collapse caused by a mutated Cordyceps fungus. This fungus turns humans into aggressive, cannibalistic creatures known as "the infected."

The franchise is defined by its emotional depth and "playable cinema" feel.

: Joel, a hardened smuggler, and Ellie, a 14-year-old girl who is mysteriously immune to the infection.

: A prequel DLC exploring Ellie’s past and her relationship with her friend Riley.