Naughty Dog's next game remains shrouded in mystery, yet another tantalizing hint has emerged from the void. Troy Baker, a renowned figure in video game acting, having portrayed Joel in both The Last of Us Part I and II, is set to make an appearance in director Neil Druckmann's upcoming project.

Uncover the Mysterious Next Game from Naughty Dog

Naughty Dog's Gaming Legacy

Naughty Dog has long been at the forefront of the gaming industry, known for creating immersive and critically acclaimed titles. Their previous works, such as The Last of Us series, have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. The studio's attention to detail and ability to tell compelling stories have made them a household name among gamers.The Last of Us, in particular, has become a cultural phenomenon, with its gripping narrative and unforgettable characters. Troy Baker's performance as Joel added another layer of depth to the game, making him a fan favorite. Now, with his involvement in the next project, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation among gamers.

The Development Timeline

Very little is known about Naughty Dog's next game other than that it has been in development since 2020. This suggests that the game could potentially be released as early as 2026, leaving fans eagerly awaiting more information. The long development period gives the studio ample time to refine and polish the game, ensuring a high-quality experience for players.During this time, Naughty Dog has been working on other projects as well. The Last of Us Online, a multiplayer spin-off, was cancelled a year ago, but it shows the studio's willingness to explore different directions within their franchise. This flexibility allows them to adapt to changing market trends and keep their fans engaged.

Troy Baker's Acting Career

Troy Baker is one of the most recognizable voices in video games. His performances as iconic characters such as Pagan Min in Far Cry 4 and the Joker in Batman: Arkham Origins have earned him a dedicated fan base. This year alone, he has appeared in both Batman: Arkham Shadow and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, showcasing his versatility as an actor.Next year, he will return as the flamboyant Higgs Monaghan in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach and is also set to make an appearance in Ken Levine's Bioshock spiritual successor, Judas. His popularity has not only opened doors for him in the gaming industry but has also led to opportunities in other forms of media.

The Casting Dilemma

When it came to landing his latest role as Harrison Ford's virtual doppelganger in Indiana Jones, Troy Baker faced some challenges. Todd Howard, known for his work on Fallout 3, 4, and many Elder Scrolls games, as well as last year's sci-fi epic Starfield, had concerns about hiring a gaming's best-known actor. He didn't want to simply go with the expected choice and wanted to ensure that the right actor was cast for the role.The casting process involved months of calls, blind audio tests, and even comparisons of the audition recordings to the sound waves of Harrison Ford's original performances. Howard's insistence on finding the perfect fit for the role shows the importance he places on authenticity and quality in his games.In the end, Baker won the role, and fans will get to see his performance in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, which is set to release on Xbox Series X/S and PC starting on December 6, with a PlayStation 5 port announced for early 2025. We'll have to wait and see if he lives up to Howard's expectations and clears the hurdle he set.