Naughty Dog President Clarifies The Last of Us Part 3 Speculation

Naughty Dog’s leadership has hinted that The Last of Us series may not see further game sequels. Explore the studio’s plans and upcoming projects below.

No Plans for The Last of Us Sequel

Naughty Dog Signals End of Game Series

The Last of Us (TLOU) may conclude with its second installment, potentially closing the chapter on the acclaimed zombie-apocalypse saga. In a March 5, 2025, interview with Variety, Naughty Dog co-president Neil Druckmann addressed speculation about The Last of Us Part 3.

Druckmann stated, “I’d caution against expecting more of The Last of Us. This might be the end.” His comments cast doubt on the franchise’s gaming future as Naughty Dog prioritizes its TV series expansion.

Reflecting on sequel development, Druckmann told IGN at the DICE Summit 2025 that he avoids planning multiple games simultaneously. “Focusing on a sequel while making the first game feels like tempting fate,” he said. “While working on The Last of Us Part 2, I’d occasionally consider future ideas, but my approach is to assume it’s the only shot we get. I pour everything into the current project, not holding back for later.”

This suggests TLOU may not see additional video game chapters, especially given the conclusive narrative of The Last of Us Part 2. Fans, however, can anticipate the second season of The Last of Us TV series, set to premiere on April 13, 2025.

Developing a New Sci-Fi Project

While TLOU’s gaming future remains uncertain, Naughty Dog is channeling its efforts into a fresh IP. At The Game Awards 2024, the studio unveiled Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet for PlayStation 5.

A teaser trailer highlighted the game’s sci-fi aesthetic. According to the official website, development began in 2020, promising Naughty Dog’s most ambitious and imaginative story yet. No further details have been shared since the announcement.

The Last of Us Online Shelved for New IP

Naughty Dog previously canceled The Last of Us Online to focus on single-player experiences, hinting at a new project. The reveal of Intergalactic confirmed this shift.

In a February 19, 2025, Sacred Symbols+ podcast interview, former Sony Interactive Entertainment President Shuhei Yoshida explained that The Last of Us Online was abandoned to prioritize Intergalactic. Bungie, known for Destiny, advised Sony that live-service games require long-term maintenance, which conflicted with Naughty Dog’s vision.

Yoshida said, “Naughty Dog was passionate about The Last of Us Online, but Bungie’s insights showed the challenges of sustaining live-service games. Naughty Dog realized they couldn’t pursue it and develop Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet simultaneously.”

With Druckmann’s remarks and the cancellation of TLOU Online, Naughty Dog appears to be stepping away from the franchise for now. Fans can still look forward to The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered, launching on PC April 3, 2025. For the latest updates on the remaster, check out our related coverage!