In recent years, the possibility of a sequel to The Last of Us has been a hot topic among fans and gamers alike. Despite the mixed reception of The Last of Us Part II, there was a strong desire for Naughty Dog to address the issues in a third installment or expand the universe through a spin-off. However, Neil Druckmann, the head of Naughty Dog, delivered a surprising statement that caught even the most dedicated fans off guard.
During a joint interview with screenwriter Craig Mazin, they discussed not only the adaptation of the game series but also the games themselves. Druckmann opened up about his experiences following the release of the sequel amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. He shared how he felt unwell and fixated on various concerns, and his mental state deteriorated when left alone with his thoughts—particularly when he had access to the internet. It was during these times that he read reviews and engaged with online debates about his game, leading him to question whether he had truly created something substandard, potentially ruining the franchise's legacy.
When asked about the prospects of The Last of Us Part III, Druckmann sighed, indicating he had anticipated the question. He then revealed that fans should not hold their breath for a new installment, suggesting that this might mark the end of the series.