The Last of Us: Left Behind Timeline ( Real )

game_development
2009

Naughty Dog Acquires Rights to The Last of Us

Naughty Dog begins development of The Last of Us, the base game to which Left Behind is a prequel DLC.

game_release
June 14, 2013

The Last of Us Released

The original game The Last of Us is released on PlayStation 3 receiving critical acclaim.

announcement
October 23, 2013

Announcement of Left Behind DLC

Naughty Dog announces The Last of Us: Left Behind DLC to expand on Ellie and Riley's backstory.

dlc_release
February 14, 2014

Release of The Last of Us: Left Behind

The Last of Us: Left Behind DLC is released on PlayStation 3.

The Last of Us: Left Behind Timeline ( Fictional )

character_event
Winter, Year 2033, post-outbreak

Riley's Arrival at the Mall

Riley arrives at the abandoned mall to meet Ellie, starting their reunion and setting the stage for the events of Left Behind.

character_event
Winter, Year 2033, post-outbreak

Ellie and Riley Explore the Mall

Ellie and Riley spend time exploring the dark and dangerous mall together, reminiscing and bonding over their shared past.

combat_event
Winter, Year 2033, post-outbreak

Ellie and Riley Encounter Infected

During their exploration, Ellie and Riley encounter several Infected, heightening the danger of their journey and forcing them to defend themselves.

flashback
Pre-outbreak, Year 2013

Ellie and Riley Recall Their Past

Through conversations and flashbacks, Ellie and Riley remember their time together before the outbreak, revealing their close relationship and personal struggles.

character_event
Winter, Year 2033, post-outbreak

The Dance at the Arcade

Ellie and Riley share a heartfelt moment dancing together at an arcade, symbolizing hope and their deep bond despite the bleak world around them.

character_event
Winter, Year 2033, post-outbreak

Riley Reveals She's Joining the Fireflies

Riley confesses to Ellie that she has been recruited by the Fireflies and will be leaving soon, causing tension and emotional conflict between them.

character_event
Winter, Year 2033, post-outbreak

Confrontation After Riley's Revelation

Ellie reacts to Riley's decision to join the Fireflies, leading to a physical and emotional confrontation that tests their friendship.

action_event
Winter, Year 2033, post-outbreak

Mall Collapse and Separation

An avalanche causes part of the mall to collapse, separating Ellie and Riley and escalating the dangers they face individually.

character_event
Winter, Year 2033, post-outbreak

Ellie Rescues Injured Riley

Ellie finds Riley trapped and injured after the collapse and helps her escape, strengthening their bond and signaling Ellie's loyalty.

character_event
Winter, Year 2033, post-outbreak

Ellie and Riley Decide to Keep Going Together

Despite the risks, Ellie and Riley choose to stick together and face the challenges ahead, reinforcing the theme of friendship and survival.