Naughty Dog, the video game studio behind The Last of Us, has seen a lot of attention in recent months due to the success of the HBO television series, based on the game, as well as a remake of the original title. As popularity over the franchise continues to rise, rumors of the developer’s work on The Last of Us Part 3 are starting to gain more traction. The two most recent apparent leaks indicate a third game in the series will feature the return of protagonist, Ellie, as an integral part of the storyline and that five new characters will be introduced. There has also been a suggestion that motion capture will take place before the end of the year.
DanielRPK an insider who has previously leaked Marvel information, reported to ResetEra with the following information:
“Part of the plot will be about a group of scavengers surviving on the outskirts of a post apocalyptic city, crammed into a Victorian house that serves as their base. They [Naughty Dog] are looking to cast these roles; Lucas, male, affable, but develops a relationship with another young scavenger and will have a turn that shows his dark side. Mason, male, a former soldier, when Val gets put in charge, Mason must choose between his loyalty to Ezra and the house. Val, female, leader of the group. Ezra, male, wants to take over the house from Val. Gracie, female 18-25 (no other details on this character)“
In response to the report from DanielRPK, Twitter user, @ViewerAnon, posted the following:
“Look, it’s early, story details are tweaked and everything is potentially up in the air to be changed, but I assure you I’ve heard Ellie is at least as important in LAST OF US PART III as she was in PART II”
The Twitter user added to this message by saying the motion capture for The Last of Us Part 3 would begin work this year. Although there have been no confirmations by Sony or Naughty Dog concerning these presumed leaks, if true, it could mean the title is much further in development than fans anticipated.
What These Possible Leaks Mean to the Future of The Last of Us Franchise – The Last of Us Part 3 and Beyond
Neil Druckmann, director of the games and writer for The Last of Us television show, has been less than forthcoming when talking about a sequel to The Last of Us Part II. There have been very few reports or updates that would indicate Naughty Dog is already at work on a third game. However, it is very possible those working with the developer are trying to maintain a top level secrecy in order to surprise fans when an announcement is finally made. Since the first season of the television show has now brought a whole new audience to the video game series, those working for the developer are likely taking carful steps. The fact that there was no announcement, even a title reveal, at the PlayStation Showcase 2023, seems to indicate if The Last of Us Part 3 is in the works, Naughty Dog is not ready to tell the world.
SEE ALSO: “They Cost How Much?”: The Last of Us Part 2 and Horizon: Forbidden West’s Budgets Were Astronomical
Suppose the leaks discussed above turn out to be true, it would mean The Last of Us Part 3 is well into development. Naughty Dog would not be setting a date for motion capture, unless a story had already been set. Druckmann has previously stated he would only want to make another game if a compelling story were to exist. He has also said the studio was more focused on an upcoming multiplayer game, saying The Last of Us Part 3 was not the focus. Although it did not appear to be in active development, these potential leaks have brought refreshed life to the chance of a third title.
Source: Playstationlifestyle.net and ResetEra
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