Neil Druckmann: Why He Avoids Planning Sequels for Games

At the DICE Summit in Las Vegas, Neil Druckmann of Naughty Dog and Cory Barlog of Santa Monica Studio shared insights about their creative processes and the doubts they face as game developers. Druckmann emphasized that he focuses on creating the best game possible without planning for sequels, stating that thinking ahead could "jinx" the current project. In contrast, Barlog expressed his penchant for long-term planning, admitting it can be stressful. They both discussed the challenges of character development over multiple games and the importance of addressing unresolved elements when considering new narratives. This discussion highlighted the contrasting approaches of two renowned figures in the gaming industry, shedding light on the complexities of storytelling in video games.

Game developers face several challenges when creating sequels, such as maintaining the originality and freshness of the story, avoiding repetition of past elements, and ensuring character development feels organic. They often grapple with their own limitations and the expectations of fans, balancing inspiration for new narratives while respecting the established lore of the franchise.

Neil Druckmann is well known for his work on critically acclaimed titles like "The Last of Us" and "Uncharted," which have set high standards in storytelling and character development in gaming. "God of War: Ragnarok," which follows the narrative depth established in the previous titles, showcases Barlog's skills in crafting complex characters who evolve over time. Both creators highlight the intricate balance between innovation and continuity that defines successful game franchises.