In recent years, the gaming community has been abuzz with speculation about a sequel to the critically acclaimed game, The Last of Us. Despite the polarizing reception of The Last of Us Part II, fans eagerly anticipated that Naughty Dog might revisit the series with a third installment or expand its universe through a spin-off. However, Neil Druckmann, the head of Naughty Dog, recently made a statement that left even the most dedicated fans of the franchise taken aback.
During a joint interview with screenwriter Craig Mazin, who is involved in the game series' adaptation, Druckmann opened up about his experiences following the release of the sequel amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. He admitted to feeling unwell during this period, becoming fixated on various issues, and struggling with self-doubt, particularly when left alone with his thoughts and access to the internet. The online discourse and reviews of his game led him to question his work, wondering if he had indeed created something substandard and tarnished the legacy of The Last of Us.
When directly questioned about the possibility of a third installment in the series, Druckmann's response was telling. With a sigh, he acknowledged the anticipation surrounding this topic but cautioned fans not to hold their breath for a new entry in The Last of Us series. He suggested that this might mark the end of the beloved saga, leaving fans to ponder the future of the franchise.