Even though many fans thought the story of The Last of Us had concluded with its second installment, there's now a possibility of The Last of Us 3 according to Naughty Dog President Neil Druckmann. The potential release of The Last of Us 3 is likely to stir excitement among fans, but regardless of the storyline, the game is expected to evoke a mix of emotions.
With the recent success of the The Last of Us TV series, the post-apocalyptic world created by Naughty Dog has gained renewed popularity and relevance. Despite the divisive reception of The Last of Us Part 2, the game has garnered a more positive overall response as it approaches its fourth year on the market. However, the conclusion of The Last of Us 2 left many loose ends, setting the stage for a potential third game to provide answers in the series' signature harsh and unforgiving narrative style.
The Bittersweet Nature of The Last of Us 3
The Conclusion of the Series
The possible storylines for The Last of Us 3 will fuel speculation, rumors, and theories within the gaming community until more details are disclosed. While the narrative possibilities for Part 3 are vast, it is improbable that the series will extend beyond a third installment. In the 'Grounded 2' documentary, Druckmann hinted at a final chapter in The Last of Us saga, indicating that Part 3 could serve as the franchise's conclusion.
Despite instances of franchises being revived after being declared concluded, it seems unlikely for The Last of Us to follow the same path. Naughty Dog has shown a commitment to leaving series like Uncharted and Jak and Daxter untouched, suggesting that when Druckmann states a game will be the last, it is generally true.
Ending The Trilogy
The Last of Us has garnered immense popularity among gamers and TV audiences, but a perpetual continuation may not be necessary or beneficial. While it is common for AAA games to exploit an intellectual property fully, releasing frequent sequels or spin-offs could dilute the emotional impact and essence of the narrative.
Addressing potential narrative complexities in The Last of Us 3 is crucial to avoid undermining the series' emotional depth. Ideally, The Last of Us 3 should strike a balance of leaving fans eager for more while providing a conclusive and satisfying finale if that aligns with Naughty Dog's vision.