The Last Of Us Part 2 director really wants to make a Punisher game

The Last of Us Part II director Neil Druckmann has opened up about which Marvel characters he would like to create a title about, and it looks like The Punisher’s Frank Castle is at the top of the list.

Released in 2020, The Last of Us Part II went above and beyond its sequel, including both inventive stealth and combat mechanics mixed with scavenging and crafting features. Telling the story of revenge and retribution as well as survival, it went on to become one of the most talked about video games in years, whether players liked it or not. This same formula could be perfect for a game dedicated to The Punisher and Naughty Dog would be the perfect studio to attempt it.

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Back in 2021, Greg Miller asked Druckmann what “established IP would you want to make a game for?” To which Druckmann replied, “1) Punisher. 2) Half Life. 3) Ghost Rider. 4) Hotline Miami. 5) Cowboy Bebop. Those come to mind.” Despite a mix of FPS shooters, movies and anime, it seems The Punisher is at the top of his list which could mean a collaboration is on the studio’s docket.

With Frank Castle being Marvel’s one-man army, it would make sense for his story to follow the likes of Ellie’s in The Last of Us Part II. It would see the anti-hero on the hunt for vengeance whilst utilising cutthroat stealth and brutal combat. Additionally, with Naughty Dog’s sister studio Insomniac currently working on development for Marvel’s Wolverine, it wouldn’t be too far-fetched to see more Marvel adaptations. Whether or not it will happen remains to be seen but with news that Naughty Dog is currently working on an “unannounced game” anything is possible.

In related news, HBO’s The Last of Us season two is currently back in production after the end of the recent writer’s strike. The next season will continue Ellie and Joel’s story as they meet the formidable Abby.

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