Neil Druckmann Clarifies Delay Of The Last Of Us Part II

The director also went on to assure fans that, as disappointed as they are, he and the rest of the Naughty Dog Team are just as disappointed.

“Internally we know we have a great game and it’s just we have to wait a little bit longer to get it out there to fans. I know fans are disappointed and believe me when I say this: we’re just as disappointed, if not more so, to not be able to get the game out on time.”

In terms of the possibility of a digital release as detailed above, Druckmann stated that Naughty Dog's primary concern is getting the game to every single player at the same time rather than just a fraction, and that one of the biggest obstacles for a digital release is whether the internet infrastructure is sufficient in each country for a digital release.

He also briefly discussed the possibility of the tech demo seen last year being released publicly, and it sounds pretty certain that that won't be happening. Druckmann made a point of explaining that it isn't just a case of taking a chunk out of the game and putting it online, but rather it would be like starting from scratch, which is work the team doesn't need. He also said that that demo is no longer "a great representation of the game" and that the game itself has "improved greatly".

The one positive thing to come out of this is that Druckmann stressed that "the game is there, we just have to sit on it for a bit" and that they are at the "one yard line" and that "[we'll] be with Ellie and Joel before [we] know it."

Finally, Druckmann said near the end that, when he has a free moment, he's been spending his time playing Animal Crossing with his kids. And, honestly, Animal Crossing sounds like what we all need right now, so take a leaf from his book. As always, guys, stay safe, stay happy. Much Love.