Snowy Shocks and Stellar Scores: The First of The Last of Us Season 2 Reviews Unveiled

As HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2 premiered on April 13, 2025, early viewers were quick to share their awe—and chills—over the snowy landscapes and gripping narrative. The first of The Last of Us Season 2 reviews have rolled in, spotlighting the breathtaking winter visuals and a darker, more complex story that builds on the beloved first season.

From the icy streets of Jackson, Wyoming, to the hordes of infected charging through snow, the season’s frosty setting has left an indelible mark on fans and critics alike. Here’s everything you need to know about the initial reactions to the snow and the broader reception of this post-apocalyptic saga’s sophomore outing.

What Are Early Viewers Saying About the Snow in Season 2?

The snow-covered world of The Last of Us Season 2 has been a standout feature for early viewers. Critics have praised the stark, wintry visuals as a perfect backdrop to the season’s themes of loss and vengeance.

One reviewer noted a thrilling sequence where “hordes of infected storm the Jackson barricades” through a snowy onslaught, calling it a visual spectacle rivaling Game of Thrones battles. The snow isn’t just eye candy—it amplifies the tension, with fire melting icy landscapes to reveal a fragile world, as highlighted in IGN’s spoiler-free review.

Fans have echoed this excitement, with some calling the snowy Clicker battles “unforgettable” and “chilling in every sense.” The contrast of snow and bloodshed has struck a chord, making every encounter feel raw and visceral. It’s clear the frozen setting has elevated the stakes, leaving viewers both mesmerized and on edge.

How Does the Snow Enhance the Story According to Reviews?

The snow isn’t just a pretty overlay—it’s a narrative force. Reviews suggest it mirrors Ellie’s descent into a darker emotional state, with one critic describing how “rain pours and darkness overwhelms sunlight” alongside the snow, reflecting her inner turmoil.

Variety pointed out how the production design, with “fire engulfing snow,” underscores the fragility of this post-apocalyptic world. This interplay has been lauded as a brilliant evolution from Season 1’s warmer tones.

The snowy setting also brings new challenges for Joel and Ellie, with SlashFilm noting how “everything, including the elements, turns against her.” Early reactions emphasize that the snow deepens the sense of isolation and danger, making survival feel more desperate than ever. It’s a cold, harsh world that’s as much a character as the protagonists themselves.

What Are the Overall Initial Reactions to Season 2?

Beyond the snow, The Last of Us Season 2 has earned widespread praise—though it’s not without its critiques. Empire called it “television at its peak,” with Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey delivering “stunningly human performances.”

The Hollywood Reporter highlighted Ramsey’s breakout turn, saying this season is “really Ramsey’s to shine.” The snowy battles and emotional depth have critics raving, with IndieWire giving it an A- for its “challenging narrative filled with challenging ideas.”

However, some reviews point to flaws. Kotaku argued the show feels “scared of silence,” over-explaining motives that the game left ambiguous, while TIME called it “fatally flawed” for not matching Season 1’s thematic depth.

Pacing issues and an incomplete story—split across future seasons—left some, like Rolling Stone, frustrated with the cliffhanger ending. Still, the consensus is that it’s gripping, even if it doesn’t always hit the same highs as its predecessor.

Why Are Fans Buzzing About the Snowy Action Scenes?

The action sequences set against the snow have sparked a frenzy. A standout moment—an “almost Helms Deep-like battle” with infected flooding through the frost—has been dubbed “spectacular” by IGN.

Early viewers can’t stop talking about the visceral horror of Clickers and runners charging through the white expanse, with one critic noting it “overshadows the pivotal moment of the season.” The snow adds a layer of chaos and beauty, making these scenes some of the most talked-about in the series.

Fans of the game have also praised the faithful adaptation of iconic moments, like Ellie and Dina’s snowy trek, with The Verge calling it an “excellent rendering” of the source material. The combination of snow and gore has turned these sequences into instant classics, fueling online chatter and anticipation for more.

Some Closing Thoughts: A Frosty Triumph Worth Watching

The Last of Us Season 2 has kicked off with a bang, and the snow has proven to be more than just a seasonal gimmick—it’s a game-changer. Early reactions paint a picture of a season that’s darker, bolder, and visually stunning, even if it stumbles with pacing and an unfinished arc.

The snowy landscapes have captivated viewers, setting the stage for a thrilling, if imperfect, chapter in Joel and Ellie’s journey.

As the first of The Last of Us Season 2 reviews continue to pour in, one thing is clear: this frozen wasteland is heating up the conversation, and fans won’t want to miss a single frosty frame.

Keep checking this space on more of this seemingly banger of a season!