Image Cropping
Image Cropping
Age Verification Failed
Sorry, you're not eligable to view this content

Go Back to Home Page
Age Verification
Please enter your date of birth
Month
Day
Year
Enter your username.Your password will be send to your registered e-mail address.


Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us II Documentary Explores Game’s Development Amid Controversy

Grounded II shows some of the pitfalls of game development 
by Joe Wilcock on February 03, 2024   



In a recently released documentary, game developer Naughty Dog delves into the behind-the-scenes making of The Last of Us: Part II, shedding light on the challenges faced during its production. The two-hour film, titled “Grounded II: Making The Last of Us: Part II,” covers the development process, including the impact of the global pandemic and the contentious issue of crunch within the gaming industry.

The documentary features interviews with key figures, such as Neil Druckmann and Troy Baker, discussing the hurdles faced during the game’s creation. Laura Bailey, who portrayed Abby in the game, shared her experience dealing with online harassment during the release cycle, revealing disturbing threats directed at her two-year-old son. The film highlights the unfortunate commonplace nature of such harassment, particularly towards women in the gaming industry.

A notable segment focuses on Bailey’s public discussion of the online abuse she received, emphasizing the need for public-facing figures to maintain a distance from the public due to the prevalent toxicity. The documentary also touches on the broader issue of harassment within the gaming industry, citing instances of stalking and threats against other personalities like Stephanie Tyler Jones, who played Mary Jane in Spider-Man 2. 

The release of The Last of Us Part II was marred by backlash from a subset of fans who objected to the storyline, especially Abby’s pivotal role in the death of the original game’s protagonist, Joel. The documentary reveals Bailey tearfully addressing death threats she received, underlining the challenges faced by the creative team during the game’s tumultuous release.
 

The Future of the Franchise


On a more positive note, the film hints at Naughty Dog’s potential plans for the future of The Last of Us franchise. Director Neil Druckmann mentioned in the documentary that there is a concept for a third game, shifting away from previous remarks about having an outline for a side story involving Tommy. Druckmann reflects on the thematic elements of the first two games, expressing a sense of closure but leaving the door slightly ajar for a continuation.

While some fans may welcome the prospect of a third installment, there are concerns about the potential undermining of the lessons learned in The Last of Us Part II. Druckmann’s explanation of a clean concept centered around love and justice raises questions about the necessity of continuing the narrative. Some fans express reservations about a potential third game, fearing it might compromise the profound and emotionally charged conclusion offered in the second installment. Despite this, Naughty Dog may yet make it a trilogy. 
 


For more news check out the Fortnite x TMNT collaboration and Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor's release date announcement

Be sure to sign up on DailyGamer for the latest updates and gaming insights.

Comments


Comments (0)
Sign In to Comment
Member Rewards
Powered By: Image