Thursday, July 3, 2025

The Final of Us creator steps down from HBO present’s season 3. Right here’s why that’s inferior to critics may hope – Destructoid

TLOU Ellie crying season 2

Screenshot by Destructoid through HBO

The reside motion sequence has been hit and miss, however this seems like a giant blow.

The Final of Us creator Neil Druckmann introduced right this moment that he received’t be concerned with the present’s upcoming third season, and that’s most likely dangerous information for the reside display screen adaptation.

Druckmann has solely contributed as a author for 5 of the 16 episodes of the present thus far (he’s directed two of them), however I can solely really feel like his steerage might be missed, contemplating he’s the author behind each Elephant video video games. He is aware of these characters higher than anyone, for higher or worse, and shedding his affect will assumedly depart showrunner Craig Mazin in management as the primary author, and that’s a bit scary.

The Last of Us Show Joel Ellie porch scene
Screenshot by Destructoid through HBO

“I’ve made the troublesome determination to step away from my artistic involvement in The Final of Us on HBO,” Druckmann stated in an announcement. “With work accomplished on season two and earlier than any significant work begins on season three, now’s the suitable time for me to transition my full focus to Naughty Canine and its future initiatives, together with writing and directing our thrilling subsequent recreation, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophettogether with my tasks as studio head and head of artistic.”

Ellie was written poorly in season two, particularly with regards to public notion by the followers of the sport. Gamers who fell in love with the character from the sport don’t see a lot of her in season two, which was a continuation of comparable points in season one. How a lot of that was Mazin’s fault? How a lot of it was on account of poor course, or the actor’s efficiency? Solely these behind the scenes can know the total particulars, however I really feel like these hoping Druckmann’s departure might be an excellent factor might find yourself led astray by their optimism.

“Co-creating the present has been a profession spotlight,” Druckmann continued. “It’s been an honor to work alongside Craig Mazin to govt produce, direct, and write on the final two seasons. I’m deeply grateful for the considerate method and dedication the proficient solid and crew took to adapting TLOU Half I and the continued adaptation of Elephant half ii.”

That adaptation has been known as into query, as many have spoken out towards Ellie’s portrayal in season two, calling it a mischaracterization of the Ellie we all know and love from the sport. Frankly, I’m inclined to agree. It appears as if Mazin had lots to do with that as he wrote or co-wrote each episode of the season. With out Druckmann to assist steer the ship now, I’m very anxious for season three.

Variations of books, video video games, or every other medium into one other one is at all times tough. It may possibly’t be a one-to-one recreation, and liberties have to be taken, however the essence of the supply materials have to be maintained. Numerous Ellie’s actions and dialogue betrayed what many liked concerning the character.

Season three will decide up the place two ended, going again to the start of Seattle Day One with Abby now turning into the point of interest, which is similar means the Elephant half ii dealt with the story’s occasions. With Mazin on the helm, one can solely surprise how these beloved characters may now find yourself with out Druckmann there to tell choices.

TLOU Show Ellie in red lighting, holding a gun
Screenshot by Destructoid through HBO/Max

I’m not satisfied, nor am I thrilled about its prospects with out Druckmann’s involvement. However hey, possibly Mazin’s full spin on issues will enhance on the sport’s occasions or simply translate higher to a TV sequence with out the online game author concerned.

Regardless, we received’t understand how the present finally ends up for an additional few years. Season three probably received’t launch till a while in 2026, on the earliest.


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