The Last of Us Developer Says It Was Hard To Keep Its New Game A Secret

Naughty Dog's CEO, Neil Druckmann, reveals the challenges of keeping their new IP, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, under wraps, especially amidst fan frustration over remasters and remakes. Let's delve into his comments and explore the game's intriguing premise.

The Difficulty of Secrecy

Druckmann confessed to The New York Times that maintaining secrecy for Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet for years was incredibly difficult. He acknowledged fan sentiment, noting the online outcry for new IPs and a respite from remasters and remakes, particularly concerning The Last of Us.

Despite these concerns, the game's reveal trailer generated significant buzz, exceeding 2 million YouTube views.

Naughty Dog's Newest Adventure: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet

Known for acclaimed franchises like Uncharted, Jak & Daxter, Crash Bandicoot, and The Last of Us, Naughty Dog expands its portfolio with Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. Initially teased in 2022, the title was trademarked by Sony Interactive Entertainment in February 2024 and officially unveiled at The Game Awards.

Set in an alternate 1986 with advanced space travel, players assume the role of Jordan A. Mun, a bounty hunter stranded on the perilous planet Sempiria—a place shrouded in mystery and a history no one has ever survived uncovering. Jordan must utilize her skills to survive and potentially become the first to return in over 600 years.

Druckmann described the narrative as ambitious, focusing on a fictional religion and the consequences of faith in various institutions. He also highlighted the game's return to Naughty Dog's action-adventure roots, drawing inspiration from Akira (1988) and Cowboy Bebop (1990).