Naughty Dog, Neil Druckmann confirms production on new game has begun

Express Tribune

20-05-2025

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Renowned game director and Naughty Dog co-president Neil Druckmann has confirmed that the studio is developing an unannounced new IP, sparking a wave of speculation across the gaming world.
Known for The Last of Us and Uncharted, Druckmann now finds himself steering multiple projects, including the upcoming Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet and HBO's The Last of Us adaptation.
In a recent interview with Steffan Powell on the Press X to Continue podcast, Druckmann revealed that, while his primary focus remains Intergalactic, he is also overseeing another, as-yet-unannounced game as an executive producer.
Though he offered no concrete details, his comments confirm the existence of a second AAA title in development at Naughty Dog.
'It's more of a producer role this time,' said Druckmann, noting he's working with other directors on both projects. 'I'm in the room, helping shape things, but not necessarily leading from the front.'
This marks a shift in approach for Druckmann, who previously emphasised his preference to focus on one project at a time.
Back in February, he explained that game development is 'all-consuming,' which made it difficult to juggle multiple titles.
Yet the demands of Intergalactic, combined with Naughty Dog's evolving slate, appear to have pushed him into new territory.
Industry insiders have linked the unannounced project to a potential Uncharted spin-off.
According to reports from well-known leaker Daniel Richtman, the game is being directed by Uncharted: The Lost Legacy's Shaun Escayg and has been in development for more than three years.
If true, the timeline aligns with Naughty Dog's previous approach — the studio announced Intergalactic after four years of behind-the-scenes work.
Fans are now speculating that the studio may be preparing a major reveal at an upcoming gaming event, potentially mirroring Intergalactic's unveiling at The Game Awards 2024.
Druckmann's increasing openness about the mystery title has only added fuel to the fire.
Adding to his packed schedule, Druckmann is also deeply involved in The Last of Us's live-action adaptation on HBO and has reportedly been mentoring the lead actress of Intergalactic on handling online criticism.
While nothing is confirmed, the signs suggest Naughty Dog is gearing up for another high-profile announcement. Until then, fans can only wait — and speculate — about what's next for one of gaming's most acclaimed studios.