Naughty Dog Confirms Two New The Last of Us Projects Are in Early Development

Naughty Dog has officially confirmed that the world of The Last of Us is far from finished, with at least two new projects currently in the early stages of development.

Neil Druckmann revealed the news as part of a new studio update, explaining that both projects will expand the established canon beyond the events of The Last of Us Part I and Part II.

Two New Projects Are Already in Development

According to Druckmann, Naughty Dog currently has “a couple” of new projects connected to The Last of Us universe.

However, both are still in very early development, meaning the studio is not ready to reveal specific details about their format, characters, gameplay, or release windows.

That wording is also important, as Naughty Dog has not confirmed that either project is The Last of Us Part III.

For now, they could potentially take the form of full games, smaller standalone experiences, or entirely different types of projects set within the same universe.

Expanding Beyond Part I and Part II

What has been confirmed is that the projects will expand the official story and mythology of The Last of Us beyond what players experienced in the first two main games.

This opens the door to exploring different characters, locations, time periods, and stories within a world that still contains plenty of unexplored territory.

Rather than simply revisiting familiar events, Naughty Dog appears interested in telling stories that add something new to the franchise's existing narrative.

Druckmann Says the Stories Are Worth Telling

Druckmann emphasized that the studio would not return to The Last of Us without having something meaningful to explore.

He explained that the world remains deeply important to the development team and that the new projects are being pursued because Naughty Dog believes these stories deserve to be told.

That statement suggests the studio is taking a story-first approach instead of expanding the franchise simply because of its popularity.

The Last of Us Universe Is Growing Again

The announcement confirms that The Last of Us will continue alongside Naughty Dog's other major project, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, which remains one of the studio's biggest current productions. Naughty Dog has confirmed that Intergalactic is being developed as a new franchise for PlayStation 5.

With two additional projects now officially confirmed, Naughty Dog appears to be preparing for another major expansion of The Last of Us universe.

Fans may have to wait before learning exactly what these projects are, but one thing is now certain: the story of The Last of Us is not over yet.