The Last of Us Sequel Kept Secret: Developer's Struggle Unveiled

Naughty Dog's CEO, Neil Druckmann, reveals the challenges of keeping their new IP under wraps, particularly amidst fan frustration over remasters and remakes. Discover his thoughts and learn more about Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet!

The Difficulty of Secrecy

Druckmann confessed to the New York Times that maintaining secrecy for years on Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet was "really hard." He acknowledged fan concerns about the studio's focus on remasters and remakes, particularly The Last of Us, at the expense of new IPs. He stated, "It’s really hard to work on these things in secret and silence for so many years, and then to see our fans go on social media and say, ‘Enough with the remasters and remakes! Where are your new games and new I.P.s?’"

Despite these concerns, the game's reveal was a resounding success, attracting over 2 million YouTube views for its announcement trailer.

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet - Naughty Dog's Latest Adventure

Known for acclaimed franchises like Uncharted, Jak & Daxter, Crash Bandicoot, and The Last of Us, Naughty Dog expands its portfolio with Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. Initially teased in 2022, the title was trademarked by Sony Interactive Entertainment in February 2024 and officially unveiled at The Game Awards.

Set in an alternate 1986 with advanced space travel, players assume the role of Jordan A. Mun, a bounty hunter stranded on the enigmatic planet Sempiria – a place from which no one has ever returned after attempting to uncover its secrets. Jordan must use her skills to survive and potentially become the first to escape Sempiria in over 600 years.

Druckmann describes the narrative as ambitious, focusing on a fictional religion and the consequences of faith in various institutions. He also highlights the game's return to Naughty Dog's action-adventure roots, drawing inspiration from Akira (1988) and Cowboy Bebop (1990).