Neil Druckmann Says Naughty Dog’s Next Game ‘Could Redefine Mainstream Perceptions of Gaming’ [IGN]

The Last of Us and Uncharted developer Naughty Dog’s next game “could redefine mainstream perceptions of gaming” according to studio head Neil Druckmann.

In an interview with Naughty Dog and PlayStation owner Sony, Druckmann was asked to share his personal vision or dream project that he hopes to see realised in the future. Having held co-directing and lead writing roles for both The Last of Us and Uncharted franchises, Druckmann said he’s worked on several dream projects already but is still looking forward to the next one.

“[I] am currently excited about a new one, which is perhaps the most thrilling yet,” Druckmann said. Nothing is known about Naughty Dog’s next game externally but the studio confirmed in March 2023 it had decided on a project.

Druckmann offered a brief tease of what that game looks to achieve. “There’s a growing appreciation for gaming that transcends all age groups, unlike when I was growing up,” he began. “This shift is highlighted by our venture into television with The Last of Us, which I hoped would bridge the gap between gamers and non-gamers.

“The show’s success has spotlighted gaming, illustrating the rich, immersive experiences it offers. This visibility excites me not only for our current project but for the broader potential of gaming to captivate a global audience. I’m eager to see how this new game resonates, especially following the success of The Last of Us, as it could redefine mainstream perceptions of gaming.”

This is all very conceptual, of course, but it sounds as though Naughty Dog plans to make a bigger leap than ever before with its next game. Outside of remasters, remakes, and collections, it last released The Last of Us: Part 2 in 2020, Uncharted: The Lost Legacy in 2017, and Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End in 2016.

Our review of its latest returned a 10/10. “The Last of Us Part 2 is a masterpiece that evolves the gameplay, cinematic storytelling, and rich world design of the original in nearly every way,” we said.

Ryan Dinsdale is an IGN freelance reporter. He’ll talk about The Witcher all day.