In video game development, behind-the-scenes insights often reveal fascinating connections between unexpected projects. The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered version was released this year and it came with a Director’s commentary. The commentary revealed so much fascinating information about the game and how it might have turned out differently had it been created according to its original vision.
One of the most intriguing revelations was the surprising link between Naughty Dog’s post-apocalyptic world and another beloved title: Infamous: Second Son. It highlighted that the Seattle map in Part 2 was based on the cityscape created for Infamous. This revelation is quite interesting and even sparked a buzz in the gaming community, with fans discussing the various details of this connection.
Naughty Dog’s Creative Process Behind The Last of Us Part 2
During the development of The Last of Us Part 2, Naughty Dog was seeking inspiration for their map and decided to reach out to Sucker Punch, the team behind Infamous: Second Son. This unexpected collaboration not only provided a foundation for Part 2’s city but also facilitated a unique opportunity to repurpose and reimagine the urban landscape.
After taking elements from the original map, the team then focused on creating distinct, immersive levels that would fit seamlessly into the game’s post-apocalyptic narrative. As mentioned in the Director’s commentary, developers didn’t just want to copy-paste some elements, instead, they carefully modified the existing map by snipping out particular sections that could be adapted to fit their vision.
The result shows the different side of the buzzing Seattle city filled but now filled with a haunting, atmospheric backdrop fit for the game’s intense storytelling. This revelation from the remastered commentary highlights the power of game design and collaboration within the industry.
Another benefit of this type of collaboration is that the developer is drawing from existing assets. So this approach not only saves time but also creates a sense of continuity within their worlds. The intricate landscapes that players explore and often find intriguing have their rich histories woven together with the help of various influences and inspirations.
The Influence of A Collaborative Effort
While it is clear that the two games present vividly different perspectives of the city, the underlying structure from Infamous provided a solid starting point for Naughty Dog. The commentary further revealed how the team skillfully redesigned the terrain into their familiar visual artistry.
Fans of both games might find this unexpected connection particularly fascinating, as it shows how the gaming industry has an intricate web connecting various games and studios. This connection between both games shows how different titles can take a similar concept and create their own unique experiences.
In a way, this revelation not only enhances players’ appreciation for The Last of Us Part 2 (demonstrating how narrative and style can transform an experience), but it also serves as a testament to the creative processes that drive the development of video games.
In the end, as players continue to explore the intricate world Naughty Dog has crafted, they will now look at the same city with a renewed perspective, further enhancing their gaming experience.
Did you notice the similarity between the two titles? Tell us in the comment section below.
