Naughty Dog Rules Out The Last of Us Part 3

Developers of The Last of Us may be concluding the series, according to recent statements from Naughty Dog about its future. Read on to learn more about the potential end of The Last of Us and the studio's current projects.

The Last of Us May Not Receive Another Sequel

Naughty Dog Suggests This Could Be The End

The Last of Us (TLOU) series might not continue, potentially leaving The Last of Us Part II as the final chapter in the acclaimed post-apocalyptic saga. In a March 5, 2025 interview with Variety, Naughty Dog co-president Neil Druckmann was questioned about the likelihood of The Last of Us Part III.

Druckmann responded, "I suppose the only thing I can say is, don't count on seeing more of 'The Last of Us.' This might be it." His comments cast doubt on the future of TLOU in gaming as Naughty Dog shifts its focus toward expanding the television adaptation.

He has previously shared his philosophy on creating game sequels. Speaking with IGN at the DICE Summit 2025, Druckmann explained he avoids planning multiple games ahead. He stated, "I believe you're tempting fate if you start thinking about a sequel while still working on the first game. So, while developing The Last of Us Part II, sure, an occasional idea about a potential future direction would surface. But my approach is always, 'what if this is my only chance?'... I don't hold back ideas for later. If something compelling emerges, I strive to incorporate it into the current project."

This strongly indicates that no further video game sequels for TLOU are planned, especially given the relatively conclusive ending of Part II. However, fans can still delve into the world with the upcoming second season of The Last of Us TV series, premiering April 13, 2025.

Developing A New Intellectual Property

Despite the likely end of The Last of Us game series, Naughty Dog is actively developing an entirely new franchise. At The Game Awards 2024, the studio announced its current project: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet for PlayStation 5.

The reveal included a brief teaser trailer highlighting its science-fiction setting. According to its official website, development began in 2020, and the game is shaping up to be the studio's most ambitious and imaginative narrative to date. Since the announcement, Naughty Dog has not released further details.

The Last of Us Online Cancelled To Prioritize Intergalactic

It was previously reported that The Last of Us Online was cancelled as Naughty Dog chose to concentrate on single-player experiences, hinting at another project in the works. With Intergalactic's announcement, it's clear this was the intellectual property they were alluding to.

In a February 19, 2025 interview on the Sacred Symbols+ podcast, former Sony Interactive Entertainment President Shuhei Yoshida explained that TLOU Online was halted to allow for Intergalactic's development. Yoshida noted that Destiny creator Bungie counseled Sony executives on the demands of live-service games, emphasizing they require not just launch but sustained long-term support.

Yoshida recalled, "The concept for The Last of Us Online originated with Naughty Dog, and they were genuinely passionate about creating it." He continued, "However, Bungie outlined the realities of live-service development, leading Naughty Dog to realize, 'We can't manage both! Pursuing this would mean sacrificing Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.' It was a matter of resource allocation."

Considering Druckmann's remarks and the cancellation of TLOU Online, it appears Naughty Dog is stepping back from the franchise, at least for now. Nonetheless, fans can anticipate the release of The Last of Us Part II Remastered for PC on April 3, 2025. For the latest updates on The Last of Us Part II Remastered, explore our related article below.