I think they are really trying to not add or subtract greatly from their existing story. The minute they start stretching out the story or padding it with in between years is the moment they will start breaking a somewhat implied promise with the viewers. They’ve been very vocal about the fact they are adapting this specific story. Also the in between years would take on the effect of a prequel where all suspense is taken away since people know everyone must stay alive bc they are in part 2.

That’s possible I guess. But I recall reading that the show runners said specifically they will not run into a game of thrones situation where the show exceeds the material. I just assumed that was their way of saying the source material was complete.

I don’t see how it will since there will likely be only 3 seasons max. If they make game 1 into season 1 and split up game 2 into seasons 2-3 then it’s over. GOT was on for 8 seasons. That’s a decade being talked about in pop culture. Similar thing with breaking bad. Walking dead too.

TLOU is def high quality but I don’t think it will have the same lasting impact as the shows you mentioned. Also look at westworld. It was extremely popular during season 1. It’s too early to make those claims of TLOU.