Latest news with #TheLastofUsPartII
Engadget
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Engadget
I can't believe they found another way to make me replay The Last of Us Part II
Somehow, Naughty Dog has found yet another way to get me to play The Last of Us Part II again. The developer just released a rather unexpected update to the remastered version of the game for PS5 and PC: you can now play the game in chronological order. Part II was infamous for the its big perspective shift from Ellie to Abby, but now players can go through their adventures side-by-side as they progress. Naturally, Naughty Dog notes that the non-linear structure is crucial to the way it envisioned the game's story and recommends anyone playing Part II for the first time do so in the original format. But there's a lot of potential for seeing how Ellie and Abby's experiences in Seattle in the main meat of the game impact each other, which should be fun to watch. I also like the idea of jumping back and forth more frequently through Ellie and Abby's different play styles. But this isn't the definitive way to play the game — when you load up a new Chronological play-through the first time, it notes that pacing may seem "off" and that tutorials for various actions may come after you've already had to use them. Naughty Dog didn't specifically say how quickly the game would intercut between Ellie and Abby's stories. But a quick video Naughty Dog posted suggests it'll be pretty frequent as their respective journeys through Seattle unfold. This also means you'll be starting the game with a bunch of flashbacks and cutscenes, which will be a big change. I'm trying to think what the earliest thing that happens in the game is that'll open this new experience — I think it'll start the same way as the original version of the game, but I also might be forgetting something here. To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here and view the "Content and social-media partners" setting to do so. The timing of this update is also interesting, as it arrives a few months after season two of HBO's adaptation finished — and just a few days after Neil Druckmann announced he wouldn't be working on season three. Season two stuck close to the narrative structure of its source material but it didn't land nearly as well as season one, which could be why Druckmann is focusing on his main gig. Naturally, there are new trophies to be had for completing Chronological Mode, and you can unlock a few skins of Joel and Tommy dressed as brothers Nathan and Sam Drake from Uncharted 4: A Thief's End — a fun nod to Naughty Dog's other major franchise. This comes as the studio celebrates its 40th year, and just over five years after The Last of Us Part II was originally released for the PS4. The patch for The Last of Us Part II remastered on PS5 and PC is available now. Not surprisingly, Chronological Mode isn't available for the original PS4 version of the game — but if you own that, you can still upgrade to the remaster for a fairly reasonable $10. At least you don't have to pay for this latest update, right?
Geek Feed
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Feed
Why You Don't have to Worry about Neil Druckmann Leaving HBO's The Last of Us
It was kind of expected that The Last of Us Season 2 was going to be met with some controversy, and with the recent news of Neil Druckmann leaving the HBO series; more people online are just getting worried about the third season. Just when people didn't think ND's exit could make things worset, Druckmann's writing partner Halley Gross is also leaving the series: Neil Druckmann and Halley Gross have BOTH decided to step away from 'The Last of Us – Season 3'. this is crazy. — skoop🍃 (@dimlitknightt) July 2, 2025 Already this is sparking some discussion in the fandom who have now branded showrunner Craig Mazin the villain of the series. Like Ryan Condal for House of the Dragon , Mazin is now being touted as the man who 'ruined' The Last of Us , and fans are just expecting everything to go downhill from there. The thing is, I don't think that fans have that much to worry about. If you follow the production and podcasts of the series, you'll know that Mazin and Druckmann have been very nice to each other about their partnership, with Druckmann even going so far as to say that he's jealous that he didn't get to think about the additions that Mazin thought to bring to the show—like Sam being deaf in Season 1 or the whole change in Bill's story. For some added context, here's what Mazin had to say about Druckmann and Gross' exit: 'I'll continue to work with our brilliant cast and crew to deliver the show our audience has come to expect. We are so grateful to Neil and Halley Gross for entrusting the incredible story of The Last of Us Part II to us, and we're just as grateful to the millions of people around the world who tune in.' If anything, Druckmann and Gross will probably have no time to work on the series because Naughty Dog had already revealed Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet , and fans are now expecting that game to release in 1-2 years. With the studio not having released a game in five years , the pressure is definitely on for Druckmann to deliver a definite crowd-pleaser with his next game; and he probably won't be able to focus if he has the HBO series to worry about. With Druckmann and Gross already telling Abby's story via the game, it does feel like they don't really need to closely watch the production of the HBO series this time around. After all, Mazin already has all the pieces that he needs; and I'm hoping that Druckmann and Gross are always open to consult if they need them. It's just that a lot of people are already being negative about Mazin being the sole showrunner in Season 3, and I think a lot of it is unwarranted. He's already proven himself to be an efficient writer; and he has a lot of love for the source material. If you ask me, if Intergalactic wasn't such a pressing matter, I'm sure Druckmann would have kept staying on the series. At least, that's what it looks like from where I'm standing. No release date has been set for the third season of The Last of Us .
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Neil Druckmann steps away from ‘The Last of Us': What it means for HBO's Season 3
In a surprising move that has taken up concern and curiosity among the fans, Neil Druckmann, the co-creator of 'The Last of Us' video game and HBO series, has announced his departure from the show's creative team ahead of Season 3. His exit marks a pivotal moment for the franchise, which has become one of HBO's most acclaimed dramas since its debut in 2023. Druckmann's statement: 'Now is the right time.' As per the official statement shared via Naughty Dog's social media, Druckmann said, 'I've made the difficult decision to step away from my creative involvement in The Last of Us on HBO. With work completed on Season 2 and before any meaningful work starts on Season 3, now is the right time for me to transition my complete focus to Naughty Dog and its future projects.' He added that co-creating the show had been a 'career highlight' and praised his collaboration with Craig Mazin, who will now lead the series solo. What's next for Druckmann? Druckmann will now focus on developing Naughty Dog's next major video game, 'Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet,' which he is writing and directing. He will also continue in his role as studio head and head of creative at Naughty Dog. Halley Gross also steps back Joining Druckmann in his exit is Halley Gross, co-writer of 'The Last of Us Part II' and executive producer on the HBO series. In her own statement, she said, 'With great care and consideration, I've decided to take a step back from my day-to-day work on HBO's The Last of Us to make space for what comes next. Working alongside Neil, Craig, HBO, and this remarkable cast and crew has been life-changing.' What this means for Season 3 With Druckmann and Gross stepping away, Craig Mazin will now serve as the sole showrunner. Mazin, known for his work on 'Chernobyl,' reassured fans by saying, 'While [Neil] focuses on that, I'll continue to work with our brilliant cast and crew to deliver the show our audience has come to expect.' Season 3 is expected to dive deeper into the story of Abby Anderson, played by Kaitlyn Dever, and continue adapting 'The Last of Us Part II.' HBO has confirmed the season is in development, with a tentative release of late 2026 or early 2027, not very confirmed yet. Fan concerns and creative shifts While Druckmann will remain credited as executive producer, fans are concerned about how his absence might affect the show's authenticity and the emotional depth that was there before. Season 2 received mixed reactions for its speed of moments and storyline changes, and Druckmann's departure raises questions about how closely Season 3 will line up with the original game's perception.
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The Last of Us Creator Makes Shocking Exit From Show Ahead of Season 3
Originally appeared on E! Online The Last of Us has lost another major player. Neil Druckmann, co-creator of the hit video game who also helmed the HBO adaptation alongside Craig Mazin, announced he would be exiting the series ahead of production on season three. 'I've made the difficult decision to step away from my creative involvement in The Last of Us on HBO,' Druckmann said in a statement to The Ankler July 2. 'With work completed on season 2 and before any meaningful work starts on season 3, now is the right time for me to transition my complete focus to [video game developer] Naughty Dog and its future projects, including writing and directing our exciting next game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, along with my responsibilities as Studio Head and Head of Creative.' The video game executive—who will continue to be credited as an executive producer on the show—also shared his gratitude for his work on the Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey-led series. More from E! Online How Many Years in Prison Does Sean "Diddy" Combs Face? What to Know After Verdict Lizzo Reveals the 3 Meals She Ate to Reach Her Weight Loss Goals Dad Reveals 14-Year-Old Son's Haunting Words Before Boy Walked Off 120-Foot Mountain Ledge 'Co-creating the show has been a career highlight,' Druckmann continued. 'It's been an honor to work alongside Craig Mazin to executive produce, direct and write on the last two seasons. I'm deeply thankful for the thoughtful approach and dedication the talented cast and crew took to adapting The Last of Us Part I and the continued adaptation of The Last of Us Part II.' In addition to Druckmann's exit, Halley Gross—who co-wrote the Part II version of the video game and worked on season two of the show—also revealed her departure. 'With great care and consideration, I've decided to take a step back from my day-to-day work on HBO's The Last of Us to make space for what comes next,' she shared in her own Instagram announcement. 'I'm so appreciative of how special this experience has been.' Gross added, 'Working alongside Neil, Craig, HBO, and this remarkable cast and crew has been life changing. The stories we told – about love, loss, and what it means to be human in a terrifying world – are exactly why I love this franchise.' As for Mazin, he expressed gratitude towards his collaborators for all they did for the show. 'It's been a creative dream to work with Neil and bring an adaptation of his brilliant work to life on HBO,' the Chernobyl creator said in a statement to Variety. 'I couldn't have asked for a more generous creative partner. As a true fan of Naughty Dog and Neil's work in video games, I'm beyond excited to play his next game.' Looking ahead, Mazin continued, 'While he focuses on that, I'll continue to work with our brilliant cast and crew to deliver the show our audience has come to expect. We are so grateful to Neil and Halley Gross for entrusting the incredible story of The Last of Us Part II to us, and we're just as grateful to the millions of people around the world who tune in.' While The Last of Us has officially been renewed for season three, read on to learn the fate of other current TV shows. Renewed: The BachelorCanceled: Doctor OdysseyRenewed: Outlande: Blood of My BloodRenewed: MoblandRenewed: ReacherRenewed: My Guest Needs No Introduction With David LettermanRenewed: Watch What Happens LiveRenewed: Maxton Hall - The World Between UsRenewed: The Great American Baking ShowRenewed: Welcome to WrexhamRenewed: HacksRenewed: YellowjacketsRenewed: My Life Wit the Walter BoysRenewed: Million Dollar SecretRenewed: ForeverRenewed: Survival of the ThickestRenewed: The DiplomatRenewed: The Four SeasonsRenewed: Love on the SpectrumRenewed: BridgertonCanceled: Suits LACanceled: FoundRenewed & Moving: House of VillainsRenewed: Rivals For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App
Engadget
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Engadget
PlayStation needs Neil Druckmann more than HBO does
I really wanted to love season two of HBO's The Last of Us . For the most part, I did — but it was also impossible to ignore the online masses saying that showrunners Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann had lost the thread in season two. Some of that comes from creative choices the pair made in adapting the first half of the PlayStation game The Last of Us Part II to TV; it's a story with a sprawling plot that asks a lot of the player and, as it turns out, even more of a passive audience. The season two cliffhanger ending and tease of what's to come in season three just didn't land for a lot of people, and (spoiler alert) there are a lot of questions from viewers as to whether the show can survive the loss of Pedro Pascal's Joel. It feels like fans of the games are mad at the changes the TV show has made, while people who haven't played the game aren't vibing with the story as presented in season two. As such, I haven't put up a full-throated defense of season two when, say, a colleague tells me it's a bummer that the show is now 'mid.' Even though there are plenty of toxic 'fans' who trash the cast and seem to hate the show telling stories with gay characters, I can admit there are also legitimate issues with season two. But despite that admission making its way into my Last of Us-loving heart, I was still shocked at the news that Druckmann, co-creator of both the game and the show, was leaving the project for season three. Shortly after Druckmann's announcement, Co-writer on The Last of Us Part II and season two of the show Halley Gross also said she was leaving, which means that the two most prominent people who worked on the games are now gone. How this will affect season three obviously will be the big question over the work leading up to season three, which will probably arrive sometime in early 2027. The simultaneous departure of both Druckmann and Gross reeks of HBO deciding that the tepid reception to season two meant a change was needed. In a statement that lacked all of the passion Druckmann has shown for the show thus far, he said he was transitioning his 'complete focus' to Naughty Dog and future games, including Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet . We'll probably never know if Druckmann left on his own or was forced out, but the part of me that loves Naughty Dog's games is finding solace in that new focus even as HBO's The Last of Us is thrown into turmoil. Druckmann will probably be far more useful to Sony as a whole working on new games than dabbling in the TV industry. That's in large part because yesterday also reminded us just how chaotic the game industry is. In the biggest news of the day, a series of wide-ranging layoffs at Microsoft impacted numerous Xbox studios, the latest bad news for an industry that has frankly been devastated by instability in recent years. With that background in mind, Druckmann's renewed focus on Naughty Dog makes a lot of sense. The TV industry is not hurting in the least for prestige content. Showrunner Craig Mazin already has the plot points he needs to cover in season three of The Last of Us , so Druckmann's input will probably be missed less than it would have been when the project got started back in 2021. But PlayStation, on the other hand, needs a boost, and having a creative leader like Druckmann helping to make Intergalactic and whatever else Naughty Dog has up its sleeve is something the company could really use. It's no secret that the first-party PlayStation studios continue to make exceptional games — but the pace during the PS5 generation has slowed significantly. For the first few years of the PS5's life, most big exclusives like God of War Ragnarök and Horizon Forbidden West came to both the PS4 and PS5. That slowly changed, with titles like Astro Bot and Marvel's Spider-Man 2 being built exclusively for the PS5. But the cadence of these releases has slowed significantly; this year's releases include Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (likely a timed exclusive) and Ghost of Yotei but five years into this generation it's undoubtedly been a slow burn. That trend is particularly acute for Naughty Dog. After releasing Uncharted 4: A Thief's End in 2016 and following that quickly with the standalone expansion Uncharted: The Lost Legacy in 2017, Naughty Dog has released one (1) original game since: The Last of Us Part II . Other than that, we've gotten… remakes and remasters of both franchises, perhaps not coincidentally to draw in people who found The Last of Us via the HBO show. Between his duties as Naughty Dog's studio head and his TV work, it's fair to wonder how much time Druckmann has spent on actual games in recent years. It's also entirely possible he's spread too thin now, even without co-running the TV show — it's probably past time for some new creative visionaries to take the lead at Naughty Dog given Druckmann's role as chief executive. If he's truly the main director and writer for Intergalactic as he said in his statement, it's good news for the PlayStation brand that he's back on that gig full-time. It's just a bit over six months since Intergalactic was first announced, so we have no real idea where the game is in its development cycle. But it sounds like the game has been in development since 2020, and Naughty Dog has said it learned a lesson from announcing The Last of Us Part II so long before it actually launched. Hopefully we're looking at a 2026 or 2027 release rather than much beyond that. Meanwhile, Druckmann's departure from HBO's The Last of Us might be a bit of a canary in the coal mine for Sony's broader PlayStation ambitions and a refocus on just making games. Games industry expert Joost Van Dreunen wrote in 2023 that the success of the show's first season was 'the culmination of Sony's gradual transition to becoming a media company.' That's something the company itself has talked up in the years since — the idea of becoming platform-less, with franchises existing on the PlayStation, on the movie screen and on the smaller TV screen in your home. Take its CES 2025 presentation, for example; Sony talked up multiple gaming adaptations besides The Last of Us like the Horizon franchise and Ghost of Tsushima. "While [Sony] continues to sell hardware at scale, its strategic emphasis is shifting toward high-margin digital services and franchise expansion," Van Dreunen wrote last month. "Titles like The Last of Us have crossed into television with critical success, and Sony has invested heavily in anime distribution (via Crunchyroll) and film adaptations of its game IP. It positions PlayStation less as a closed hardware ecosystem and more as the foundation for a vertically integrated content engine. Rather than chasing distribution breadth like Microsoft, Sony is doubling down on cultural depth, using its exclusive IP to build multi-format engagement loops." I don't think a less-than-stellar second season of The Last of Us will cause Sony to abandon this strategy. (Sony is also too big of a ship to completely turn away from this plan very quickly.) But the repositioning of Druckmann as the lead of a successful and influential video game studio rather than a multi-medium creative visionary reinforces the fact that if they're going to have hits on a variety of different platforms, new, ambitious and hopefully good games like Intergalactic are a necessity. At this point, HBO's The Last of Us is going to keep on rolling, with or without Druckmann — there were a lot of loud complaints, but also still plenty of viewers and positive reviews. But Naughty Dog is past due for another big game that pushes the genre in a new direction. It's the right time for Druckmann to come home.
