Sequel Confirmation: 'The Last of Us' Creator Breaks Silence

At the DICE Summit in Las Vegas, Naughty Dog's Neil Druckmann and Sony Santa Monica's Cory Barlog discussed the pervasive theme of doubt in game development. Their hour-long conversation covered self-doubt, recognizing viable ideas, and the challenges of character development across multiple games.

Druckmann surprisingly revealed he doesn't plan sequels beforehand. He focuses intensely on the current project, approaching each game as if it might be his last. Any sequel ideas that arise are integrated into the present game, rather than saved for future installments. He illustrated this approach with the Last of Us series, emphasizing that he only considers sequel possibilities after completing a game, assessing unresolved elements and potential character arcs. If no compelling direction emerges, he's even joked about simply ending a character's story. His approach to Uncharted, he explained, involved retrospectively figuring out each sequel's direction, constantly asking how to avoid repetition and explore new avenues for the characters. If a new direction isn't found, the question becomes whether it's the right character or game to continue.

Barlog, in contrast, admitted to a far more elaborate, long-term planning process, connecting current projects to ideas conceived years prior. While acknowledging the inherent stress and potential for disruption from shifting teams and perspectives, he finds immense satisfaction in realizing these long-term visions.

The discussion also touched upon the emotional toll of game development. Druckmann shared an anecdote about Pedro Pascal, who described the creative process as "the reason to wake up in the morning," highlighting the passion despite the immense pressure and negativity that can accompany it. He emphasized his love for games and the talented teams he works with as the driving force behind his continued involvement.

Druckmann then posed a question to Barlog regarding the point at which the relentless drive to create becomes "enough." Barlog's candid response described the never-ending cycle of ambition, where completing one project immediately triggers the pursuit of the next, even before fully appreciating the achievement. He described this as a "demon of obsession" that prevents him from fully savoring success.

Druckmann echoed this sentiment, but with a more measured perspective, mentioning his intention to gradually reduce his day-to-day involvement, creating opportunities for others to step up and lead. Barlog, in a humorous counterpoint, jokingly declared his intention to retire.