When we think of the most divisive and controversial video games of the past decade, The Last of Us Part II (2020) immediately comes to mind. Despite earning high praise from critics and devoted fans, the game—centered on Ellie and Abby’s intertwined journeys—was also the target of one of the most notorious review bombing campaigns due to certain narrative choices and the inclusion of diverse characters.
And while it’s valid to critique a game’s plot or gameplay, things clearly went too far, with some fans even issuing threats against the actors and creative team.
So now the big question is: will Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, the latest project from the same studio, suffer the same fate? Neil Druckmann, the man behind both titles, doesn’t seem too concerned.
Neil Druckmann Responds to Controversy Around Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet
Naughty Dog’s latest title was first revealed at The Game Awards 2024 with a cinematic teaser that introduced its sci-fi setting and lead character, a bounty hunter named Jordan A. Mun.
Although Druckmann claimed that his new title would be less controversial than The Last of Us Part II, early reactions suggest otherwise.
Even without gameplay footage, that brief glimpse drew sharp reactions online. Some viewers criticized the game for appearing “too woke,” focusing particularly on the character’s shaved head, a look that some equated with pushing an agenda. The teaser received thousands of dislikes, and the negative response eventually led PlayStation to disable the comments section.
Speaking on the Last Stand Media podcast, Druckmann downplayed the uproar:
“I don’t know if there’s much I could add to that conversation, to be honest,” he said. “It’s just that there’s stuff happening right now with media that you just have to ignore for the most part, stick to your guns, and do what you believe in, and I feel like that’s how I would want artists to carry themselves.”
Tati Gabrielle Is Bracing for the Storm
Druckmann might appear unfazed, but the game’s lead actress is under no illusions. Tati Gabrielle, who also portrayed Braddock in the Uncharted live-action movie and appears as Nora in The Last of Us television show, knows exactly what to expect.
In a recent interview, the 29-year-old reflected on her time on the HBO series and opened up about Intergalactic. Gabrielle recalled the hate campaigns that targeted The Last of Us Part II cast members Laura Bailey, Ashley Johnson, and Troy Baker, and revealed that she’s been working closely with Druckmann to prepare for a similar situation.
Will Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet get bombarded with hate too? How do you feel about Druckmann’s approach? Drop your thoughts in the comments.