The Last of Us Gamers Left Devastated As Part 3 To Mark Controversial Change

The Last of Us fans are left feeling devastated by the prospect of a Part III change following Sony PlayStation’s recent controversial digital-only announcement.

One of the most highly anticipated titles that gamers have been waiting for on PlayStation is the next instalment of Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us series. And no, we don’t mean yet another remaster or remake.

However, the only problem with that is that neither Sony Interactive Entertainment nor Naughty Dog has officially announced The Last of Us Part III. At most, Naughty Dog chief Neil Druckmann has hinted at the prospect of the third game happening, but with recent rumours of there being trouble at the studio, nothing can be taken for granted right now.

READ MORE: The Last of Us Part 3 In Doubt As Franchise Creator's Naughty Dog Exit Rumoured

Why Are The Last of Us Fans Worried?

Earlier this week, Sony sent shockwaves across the industry by announcing that it intends to stop producing its games on disc as of January 2028, with an all-digital future in mind. This was announced alongside the news that the PS3 and PS Vita stores are also closing down.

Furthermore, this followed Sony removing around 500 movies from libraries with no refunds. So yeah, many folk aren't too happy with Sony right now, and it’s totally understandable why gamers are feeling the way they are.

So, with the update that Sony is ending its physical video games in 2028, gamers are really hoping that The Last of Us Part III arrives before then.

“I hope Sony will change its mind… I need The Last of Us Part III on disc,” exclaimed Redditor Marino-2603, while sharing a photo of their physical games of the series.

“That was my first thought, too. It’s going to suck having Part I and Part II physical, and the third digital only. I don't see Sony changing its mind, my only hope is that they do a special edition on disc (even typing that out is gross),” replied Boferd.

“I’m pleasantly surprised to see the mass backlash. I thought I was in the minority of being against this decision,” added difficultsituation. “Whether or not they go back on it or not, I don’t mind. I’m too grown up now to care about video games like I used to (except TLOU).”

“Hopefully, I will still be alive to play The Last of Us Part III,” joked Stranded_Snake.

“Pray that Naughty Dog will still be around in a few years with the current industry situation,” said DecomposingCorpse.

What Are The Chances Of Seeing The Last of Us Part III Before 2028?

To be honest, I think the chances are very slim, as much as we’d love to see it. Naughty Dog’s next game is Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, and despite being announced at The Game Awards in 2024, it still doesn't have a release date, nor have we seen any gameplay.

It’s believed that Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet could launch in 2027, perhaps even during the backend of that year. If so, and that feels likely, that doesn't leave much room to launch The Last of Us Part III before Sony goes all digital in January 2028. But I really hope I’m wrong.

As soon as we get a release date for Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, we’ll let you know.

READ MORE: 5 Games To Play While The Last of Us Part 3 Is Nowhere To Be Seen