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Hboโ€™s strategy: stretching part 2 across three seasons

HBOโ€™s Controversial Three-Season Plan for Part 2 | Fans Split Over Decision

By

Tomรกs Ribeiro

Jun 19, 2025, 10:41 PM

Edited By

Marcus Chen

Updated

Jun 20, 2025, 02:41 AM

2 minutes of duration

HBO logo with a graphic showing multiple seasons stretching across a timeline, symbolizing a series expansion.
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A growing chorus of fans is voicing disappointment with HBO's strategy to stretch the adaptation of a popular gameโ€™s second installment over three seasons. Critics argue that the move prioritizes profit over storytelling, echoing concerns stemming from a rushed execution in season two.

Fan Discontent with Adaptation Strategy

Many fans feel frustrated, questioning the need for three seasons after initially welcoming a two-season layout that seemed to honor the game's structure. โ€œThey dropped the ball by not giving us a season between TLOU and TLOU2,โ€ said one viewer, highlighting a missed opportunity to expand the universe without rushing into the story of the second game.

Viewers are apprehensive about the pacing and structure as well. With season 2 struggling to deliver emotional depth, one commenter noted, "I felt like I had whiplash from the pacing.โ€ Fans worry that breaking the story into three seasons could lead to unnecessary filler episodes, compromising the depth of the narrative.

"Watching it felt like jumping from one moment to another without breathing room."

Concerns Over Future Seasons

Additionally, speculation has risen regarding the connection between HBO's adaptation and a potential Last of Us 3 script. Some fans believe HBO is strategically pacing the current series to align with game releases, potentially ensuring that the next installment drops right around season five.

As HBO plans its three-season strategy, the likelihood of dropping viewer engagement remains a major concern. Recent analysis suggests around 60% of fans may abandon the show if pacing issues persist, particularly if upcoming seasons remain focused on Abby instead of Ellie.

Ratings Predictions and Viewer Sentiments

As the adaptation continues, ratings predictions are mixed but mostly negative:

  • Rushed Story: Many agree that pacing detracts from character development.

  • Confusion Over Perspective Shifts: Viewers express frustration over constant changes, resulting in confusion.

  • Filler Content Concerns: There are fears the extra season will dilute content quality.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ โ€œThey better finish the show while they still have a chanceโ€ - a warning from an anxious fan.

  • โ–ฝ If unresolved plot threads linger, ratings are expected to further decline.

  • ๐Ÿ”ฎ Concerns grow that the long-term strategy undermines the narrative's integrity.

As HBO continues to navigate its adaptation, viewer frustration mounts, questioning whether the focus remains on quality storytelling or if it's more about turning a profit. Can upcoming seasons restore faith among fans, or will they push many away? Only time will tell.