Sony has published a new interview with Neil Druckmann, Studio Head and Head of Creative at Naughty Dog, and with it comes a claim from the industry veteran best known for The Last of Us that his next project will be his most “thrilling” yet, one so great, in fact, that it may “redefine mainstream perceptions of gaming.” Druckmann, 45, also gave some thoughts about AI as part of his talk about the evolution of storytelling across mediums, warning that while the technology could be revolutionary for the industry, there are some issues that need addressing.
Druckmann said when asked about what his dream project would look like:
- “I’ve been lucky to work on several dream projects and am currently excited about a new one, which is perhaps the most thrilling yet.”
- “There’s a growing appreciation for gaming that transcends all age groups, unlike when I was growing up. This shift is highlighted by our venture into television with The Last of Us, which I hoped would bridge the gap between gamers and non-gamers.”
- “The show’s success has spotlighted gaming, illustrating the rich, immersive experiences it offers. This visibility excites me not only for our current project but for the broader potential of gaming to captivate a global audience.”
- “I’m eager to see how this new game resonates, especially following the success of The Last of Us, as it could redefine mainstream perceptions of gaming.”
As for artificial intelligence:
- “…AI is really going to revolutionize how content is being created, although it does bring up some ethical issues we need to address.”
- “With technologies like AI and the ability to do motion capture right from home, we’re reducing both costs and technical hurdles, opening the door for us to take on more adventurous projects and push the boundaries of storytelling in games. This evolution is truly empowering creators to bring their visions to life without the traditional obstacles.”
- “AI will allow us to create nuanced dialogues and characters, expanding creative possibilities. However, it’s crucial to precisely direct these tools to achieve the intended outcomes.”
A profile for Druckmann that Sony shared:
Neil Druckmann is the Studio Head and Head of Creative at Naughty Dog, celebrated for co-creating and directing acclaimed game franchises Uncharted and The Last of Us. Since joining Naughty Dog in 2004, Druckmann has evolved from programmer to leading roles, including producing the Uncharted movie and executive producing and directing episodes for The Last of Us HBO series. His impactful storytelling in gaming and television has earned him multiple awards, including BAFTA and D.I.C.E. Awards. Druckmann’s leadership continues to guide Naughty Dog in delivering compelling narratives and innovative gameplay experiences.