Naughty Dog's recent statements cast significant doubt on the future of The Last of Us video game series. Continue reading to learn more about the franchise's future and the developer's current project lineup.
The Future of The Last of Us Appears Uncertain
Naughty Dog Suggests This Could Be The End
The award-winning post-apocalyptic series might not receive another sequel, potentially leaving The Last of Us Part II as the franchise's final chapter. In a March 5, 2025, interview with Variety, Naughty Dog's co-president Neil Druckmann addressed the possibility of The Last of Us Part III.
Druckmann responded, "The only thing I can really say is that you probably shouldn't expect more from 'The Last of Us.' This could very well be the conclusion." His comments create substantial uncertainty about the future of the game series as Naughty Dog shifts its focus toward expanding the television adaptation.
He has previously discussed his philosophy on game sequels. During the 2025 DICE Summit, Druckmann told IGN that he avoids planning for multiple game entries. He elaborated, "I believe you're setting yourself up for disappointment if you're already thinking about a sequel while developing the first game. While working on The Last of Us Part II, sure, I'd occasionally get ideas about where the story could go next. But my approach is always to treat each project as if it's my last opportunity. I don't hold back ideas for potential future games; if something compelling emerges, I do my best to incorporate it into the current project."
This strongly indicates that the series may not continue with further video game installments, especially considering The Last of Us Part II provided a relatively conclusive narrative ending. Nevertheless, fans can still engage with the universe through the upcoming second season of the TV series, scheduled to premiere on April 13, 2025.
Developing A Brand New Intellectual Property
Even as The Last of Us' game future remains in doubt, Naughty Dog is actively developing an entirely new intellectual property. During The Game Awards 2024, the studio announced Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet for PlayStation 5.
The announcement featured a brief teaser trailer highlighting the game's science fiction setting. According to the official website, development began in 2020, with the project positioned as the studio's most ambitious and creatively daring narrative to date. Since the initial reveal, Naughty Dog has shared limited additional information about the game.
The Last of Us Online Was Cancelled to Prioritize Intergalactic
Previous reports indicated The Last of Us Online was cancelled so the studio could concentrate on single-player experiences, with hints about an unannounced project. The reveal of Intergalactic confirmed this was the project Naughty Dog had previously alluded to.
During a February 19, 2025, appearance on the Sacred Symbols+ podcast, former Sony Interactive Entertainment President Shuhei Yoshida explained that The Last of Us Online was shelved to facilitate Intergalactic's development. Yoshida stated that Bungie, the creators of Destiny, counseled Sony executives on the considerable demands of live-service games, emphasizing they require not just successful launches but long-term operational support.
Yoshida remarked, "The concept for The Last of Us Online originated with Naughty Dog, who were genuinely enthusiastic about creating it." He continued, "However, Bungie outlined the extensive resources needed for live-service games, leading Naughty Dog to realize, 'We can't manage this! Proceeding would prevent us from developing Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.' It was ultimately a matter of prioritizing resources."
Combined with Druckmann's recent statements and the cancellation of the online project, these developments suggest Naughty Dog is stepping back from the franchise, at least temporarily. Fans can still anticipate The Last of Us Part II Remastered, launching on PC on April 3, 2025. For the latest updates on the remaster, check our detailed coverage below.
