The Ultimate Condition for an Epic Crossover in 'The Last of Us' Universe

Highlights

The Last of Us has experienced a surge in popularity and has multiple upcoming projects, but crossovers between them need to be carefully handled for narrative integrity.

The Last of Us multiplayer and the HBO show are currently experiencing difficulties, but their eventual release is anticipated because of the franchise's significance to PlayStation.

Incorporating crossovers into The Last of Us multiplayer should involve meaningful integration with the game's world and story, going beyond superficial cosmetic additions.

At just 10 years old, The Last of Us is now more popular than ever. Since its impactful release in 2013, the fanbase has continued to grow steadily. This year has been particularly monumental for the franchise, with The Last of Us HBO show attracting an unexpectedly high number of fans.

With such strong momentum, it is evident that The Last of Us shows no signs of slowing down. There are already two major projects in the works, and potentially more unannounced ventures on the horizon. However, it is crucial that any future crossovers within the Last of Us media are approached with utmost care.

The Last of Us Needs to Make Its Crossovers Count

Currently, there are two major Last of Us projects in progress: the Last of Us multiplayer game and the second season of the HBO show. Both projects are facing challenges behind the scenes. The Last of Us multiplayer game is experiencing issues related to its live-service approach, leading PlayStation to involve Bungie in addressing and resolving the situation. Meanwhile, the production of the second season of the Last of Us show is significantly delayed due to ongoing SAG-AFTRA strikes.

Despite these challenges, both projects are highly anticipated and likely to eventually be released. The Last of Us is one of PlayStation's most important intellectual properties at the moment. When these projects are finally launched, it is expected that PlayStation will seek to establish a connection between them, following the principles of brand synergy. However, any collaborations or crossovers involving these upcoming Last of Us projects, as well as previous ones, must be approached with utmost caution.

The Last of Us multiplayer, being a live-service game, opens up the opportunity for various crossovers with past and future Last of Us installments. While adding fan-favorite character cosmetics like Joel's winter jacket or Ellie's red sunset t-shirt would be a simple way to incorporate these crossovers, it is important that they are not just added for the sake of it. Instead, they should be seamlessly integrated into the game's world and story.

For any crossovers to have meaningful impact, they must be supported by a strong narrative. Simply finding iconic clothing scattered around the map randomly would feel cheap. Instead, players should have the chance to explore locations where Joel and Ellie have previously stayed, allowing for a more natural integration. To truly exceed expectations, The Last of Us multiplayer could even include a cameo appearance by the post-apocalyptic duo, offering players something more substantial than just a cosmetic item.

Any potential crossovers within The Last of Us should make sense within the game's world and reward players with a significant experience, rather than just a fleeting moment of fan service.