Everyone is Expecting The Last of Us Part 3, But Naughty Dog’s Second Game Might Not Be That

Last Updated on May 20, 2025 @ 14:06:59 PM.

---

The Last of Us Part 3 is high on the wishlist, especially after a controversial sequel that left everyone on the edge of their seats and a successful live-action adaptation at HBO. Game development can take a while to perfect, and it seems like the developers are all hands on deck for Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet; however, director Neil Druckmann casually confirmed that there is another project currently in the works.

While the obvious and safest guess would be a direct sequel to The Last of Us, it may be something else entirely. Druckmann didn’t give any specific details on whether this unannounced project is another new IP, a sequel, or a remake. Chances are, it will be related to a familiar franchise that has been collecting dust under Sony Interactive Entertainment’s basement.

The Last of Us Part 3 Isn’t Coming Anytime Soon

After pouring everything he had into the making of The Last of Us Part 2, Neil Druckmann was ready to pump the brakes and branch out to tell more stories beyond Joel, Ellie, and Abby through Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. At one point during the Grounded 2 documentary, Druckmann seemingly confirmed that there could be more stories to tell; however, it may take a while since he is spearheading a new IP, which requires his undivided attention.

Neil Druckmann rose through the ranks at Naughty Dog and took on different roles to help the studio grow. In an interview, Druckmann confirmed that an unannounced game is being developed alongside his project, and it may not be The Last of Us Part 3 or another new IP.

Studio Head And Head Of Creative At Naughty Dog Neil Druckmann:

"There's another game that's being worked on in Naughty Dog where I'm more of a producer role and I get to mentor and and watch this other team and give feedback and be like the executive in the room I enjoy all… pic.twitter.com/F1z1txFKyz

— @Zuby_Tech (@Zuby_Tech) May 19, 2025

Druckmann has proven plenty after delivering great projects in the past few years, and his experience as a game director allows him to oversee the work of others without being too hands-on. As the co-creator of The Last of Us franchise, chances are he will personally take the helm of a potential sequel as soon as he wraps up his current major project. This secret project could likely be an entry to an existing franchise or another remake.

Diving Into the Uncharted…. Again

The gaming community grew up with the Uncharted franchise, and while Druckmann gave Nathan Drake a proper ending, there is always room for more stories with other protagonists. Naughty Dog released a spinoff featuring Chloe, Nadine, and Sam as the leads, and while it may not be as grand as traditional Uncharted games, there is an audience for more adventures.

Neil Druckmann has a lot on his plate from working on a live-action adaptation of The Last of Us with HBO to developing his new IP. It would make sense for the studio to revisit a franchise he is familiar with. The chances of The Last of Us Part 3 being made are high, especially with how the last game left an impact on the community; however, Druckmann wouldn’t want to be spread too thin working on multiple major franchises.

The unannounced project could be a return to a franchise the fans are already fond of, or a simple remaster or remake of an older game. Nevertheless, a new Uncharted game would be a welcome treat for hardcore fans.

For more Thumb Wars coverage, check out how Neil Druckmann is preparing the star of Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet for all the online hate, and the surprise appearance of a fan-favorite actor in The Last of Us Season 2. Otherwise, follow Thumb Wars on X, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram to keep up with the latest news, reviews, and interviews!

---