Get ready, because this Sunday, May 11 at 9 PM ET, The Last of Us season 2 episode 5 returns to HBO and MAX — and it’s one fans and gamers alike have been waiting for. This time, the infection takes to the air. That’s right: airborne spores are finally making their debut in the series, bringing a whole new layer of tension and authenticity for those familiar with the game.
When Does The Last of Us Season 2 Episode 5 Air?
Mark your calendars: Sunday, May 11 at 9PM ET is when it all goes down. The episode will be available to watch on HBO and streaming on MAX at the same time. If you’ve been following the series weekly, this installment is set to be a game-changer — literally — as it introduces a long-awaited element from the original video game: airborne spores.
Whether you’re watching live or catching it on demand later that night, you won’t want to miss this milestone episode. Expect social media to light up shortly after the premiere — so beware of spoilers if you’re tuning in late!
Why Airborne Spores Matter to Fans
In the original The Last of Us video game, airborne spores were a major part of the infected world. They created high-stakes environments and required Joel and Ellie to wear gas masks — something that was notably absent in Season 1 of the show.
The decision to bring spores into Season 2 signals a shift in tone and atmosphere. It’s darker, more dangerous, and closer to the heart of what made the game feel so immersive. For longtime fans, this change is huge — and it opens the door for even more intense and claustrophobic storytelling in the episodes to come.
The Last of Us has consistently delivered emotionally charged, high-stakes storytelling — and with spores finally entering the scene, Episode 5 is shaping up to be one of the most memorable yet. Whether you’re a fan of the game or just love a well-crafted post-apocalyptic story, this episode is not one to skip.
