Druckmann: 'No Plans for Sequels' in The Last of Us Series

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 personal insecurities, recognizing successful ideas, and the challenges of creating sequels.

One audience question focused on character development across multiple games. Druckmann's response was unexpected: he doesn't plan sequels in advance. He focuses intensely on the current project, treating each game as a standalone. While occasional sequel ideas arise, he prioritizes fully realizing the current game's potential, believing preemptive sequel planning is detrimental. He explained his approach to sequels involves revisiting unresolved elements and character arcs from previous installments. If no compelling direction emerges, he considers concluding the character's story. He used the Uncharted series as an example, emphasizing the iterative nature of their development, where each sequel's direction emerged organically from the preceding game.

Barlog, conversely, employs a long-term, interconnected planning approach, often connecting current projects to ideas conceived years prior. He acknowledges this method's intense stress and potential for disruption due to personnel changes and evolving perspectives.

The discussion shifted to the emotional toll of game development. Druckmann shared an anecdote about Pedro Pascal's perspective on art as the driving force behind his work, emphasizing his own deep passion for game storytelling despite the inherent stress and negativity. He also touched upon his eventual desire to step back from day-to-day responsibilities, creating opportunities for others.

Barlog offered a candid reflection on the unending nature of creative ambition, likening it to an internal "demon" that pushes for continuous achievement, even after reaching significant milestones. He described the feeling of reaching a summit only to find another, taller mountain in the distance.

Druckmann, while sharing Barlog's sentiment about the relentless drive, expressed a more measured approach, focusing on creating opportunities for others to succeed. He cited Jason Rubin's advice upon leaving Naughty Dog, highlighting the importance of creating space for the growth of others. Barlog, in response, humorously declared his intention to retire.