Naughty Dog’s co-president, Neil Druckmann, has recently shared some insights into his concept for The Last Of Us: Part 3. However, it is essential to note that this does not confirm the development of a third game. Druckmann reiterates the studio’s stance on not feeling obligated to continue the storyline. Despite this, he mentions that there may be one more chapter left to explore. The question lingers, will The Last Of Us ever truly come to an end?
In a recent Making-Of feature, Druckmann delves into the inspiration behind the games and the potential future of the series. Reflecting on the first game’s theme of parental love and the second game’s exploration of “justice at any cost,” he emphasizes the clean concepts each game encapsulates. As he states in the video, “If we never get to do it again, this is a fine ending point. Last bite of the apple, the story’s done.”
One of the significant advantages of working at Naughty Dog is the creative freedom the studio grants its developers. Druckmann acknowledges this privilege, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to explore other projects if they arise. The team does not feel obligated to create another Last Of Us game but remains open if they discover a concept they are passionate about. Druckmann admits to spending years searching for a captivating idea, and it is only recently that he has found one, describing it as “as exciting as 1, as exciting as 2.” This newfound concept stands on its own yet maintains a throughline that connects all three games. Thus, the possibility remains for another chapter in the Last Of Us story.
During the Making-Of video, Druckmann also addresses a misconception that arose from a previous interview. He clarifies that a story centered around Joel Miller’s brother, Tommy, set after the events of The Last Of Us Part 2, is not The Last Of Us Part 3. Contrary to rumors, it was never intended to be a full-fledged title. Although shelved for the time being, Druckmann expresses hope that this story will eventually see the light of day in some form, whether it be as a game or a show. Perhaps it could follow the path of Uncharted: The Lost Legacy, a standalone spin-off, or find a home as another season of the highly anticipated The Last Of Us HBO adaptation.
Naughty Dog’s recent decision to cancel The Last Of Us Online, a multiplayer live service, further emphasizes their commitment to focus on single-player narrative games that have defined the studio’s heritage. Although The Last Of Us Part 2 has yet to be released for PC, a port seems likely following the success of the console edition’s remastered version. Thus, it appears to be an intriguing time to broach the idea of a new Last Of Us story.
Druckmann’s personal experiences growing up in Israel and his thoughts on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict heavily influenced the theme of “justice at any cost” in Part 2. However, he has clarified that the game is neither a direct allegory nor a commentary on the conflict. It is worth noting the current real-life events with Israel’s invasion of the Gaza strip, resulting in devastating consequences for Palestinians. This context adds complexity and significance to any potential continuation of The Last Of Us series.
While Neil Druckmann’s concept for The Last Of Us: Part 3 is exciting, it is vital to approach it with caution. Naughty Dog has made it clear that there is no obligation to continue the story. Nonetheless, the possibility of another chapter in this emotionally gripping and thought-provoking franchise should not be entirely ruled out. Only time will tell if this remarkable series will come to a definitive conclusion or if players will embark on yet another harrowing journey through a post-apocalyptic world.
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