Naughty Dog’s recent comments suggest the Last of Us video game series might be over. Let's delve into the future of The Last of Us and Naughty Dog's current projects.
The Last of Us: No More Sequels?
Naughty Dog's Statement
The Last of Us Part II may be the final chapter in the acclaimed post-apocalyptic saga. In a March 5, 2025 interview with Variety, Naughty Dog co-president Neil Druckmann hinted at the series' conclusion, stating, "I guess the only thing I would say is don’t bet on there being more of ‘Last of Us.’ This could be it." This statement casts doubt on the future of The Last of Us video games, as Naughty Dog shifts focus.
Druckmann previously expressed his perspective on game sequels in a DICE Summit 2025 interview with IGN. He stated he avoids focusing on sequels during initial game development, preferring to approach each project as potentially the last. He explained, "I think you're jinxing yourself if you're starting to think about the sequel when you're working on the first game. So when I was making The Last of Us 2, yeah, sure. Every once in a while an idea pops in your head of where it might go if we get the chance to do another one. But I just approach it as, ‘what if I never get to do another one?’...I'm not saving some idea for the future. If there's a cool idea, I'm doing my best to get it into here."
Given The Last of Us Part II’s relatively conclusive ending, Druckmann's comments suggest no further video game sequels are planned. However, fans can eagerly anticipate Season 2 of the Last of Us TV series, premiering April 13, 2025.
A New IP in Development
While the future of The Last of Us games remains uncertain, Naughty Dog is actively developing a new intellectual property. At The Game Awards 2024, they announced Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet for PlayStation 5, unveiling a short teaser trailer showcasing its sci-fi elements. According to the game's official website, development began in 2020, promising a unique and creative narrative. Further details are yet to be revealed.
The Cancellation of The Last of Us Online
Previously, reports surfaced regarding the cancellation of The Last of Us Online. Naughty Dog's focus on single-player titles was cited as the reason. The announcement of Intergalactic confirms this was the project hinted at previously.
In a February 19, 2025 interview with the Sacred Symbols+ podcast, former Sony Interactive Entertainment President Shuhei Yoshida explained that The Last of Us Online was cancelled to prioritize Intergalactic’s development. He highlighted advice from Bungie regarding the long-term commitment required for live-service games. Yoshida stated, "The idea for The Last of Us Online came from Naughty Dog and they really wanted to make it." He added, "But Bungie explained what it takes to make live-service games, and Naughty Dog realized, 'Oops, we can't do that! If we do it, we can't make Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.' So that was a lack of foresight."
Druckmann's comments, coupled with the cancellation of The Last of Us Online, strongly suggest Naughty Dog has concluded its work on the franchise, at least for the time being. However, fans can look forward to the PC release of The Last of Us Part II Remastered on April 3, 2025. For updates on The Last of Us Part II Remastered, check out our related article!
