Joel's Return? Troy Baker Believes We Haven't Seen Last of The Last of Us Character

Troy Baker hints Joel Miller could return to The Last of Us franchise through flashbacks, comics, or films despite the character's death. The voice actor sees 'one more chapter' potential, though Naughty Dog's focus on new projects delays any third game until the 2030s.

Joel's Return? Troy Baker Believes We Haven't Seen Last of The Last of Us Character

Troy Baker, the voice actor behind Joel Miller in The Last of Us games, believes we haven't seen the last of his character despite Joel's death in both the games and HBO series. According to an interview with Eurogamer, Baker expects Joel to appear in future projects across 'multiple mediums,' potentially including more games.

What did Troy Baker say about Joel's future?

Baker expressed confidence that Joel's story isn't finished, even after the character's death in The Last of Us Part II and the HBO adaptation. 'I definitely know we've not seen the last of Joel, whether that be Naughty Dog or somebody else,' Baker told Eurogamer. He compared Joel to iconic characters that multiple actors have portrayed over time.

Key Takeaways

  • Troy Baker believes Joel will appear in future The Last of Us games despite the character's death.
  • Neil Druckmann has hinted at 'one more chapter' for a potential third game in the series.
  • The Last of Us Part 3 likely won't arrive until the 2030s due to Naughty Dog's current projects.
  • Baker wants Joel 'proliferated across multiple mediums' including TV, film, and comics.
  • Naughty Dog is currently developing Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet and another unannounced game.

'I hope that Pedro is not the last person to play Joel,' Baker explained. 'I want to see this character be proliferated and iterated on in multiple mediums, whether it be TV, film, more games, comic books. I see people that cosplay as [Joel] all the time... he made an impact.'

How could Joel return despite being dead?

Joel's death in The Last of Us Part II and the HBO series doesn't necessarily close the door on future appearances. Any potential third game could feature flashback sequences showing Joel and Ellie's relationship, similar to how Part II used flashbacks to explore their history.

Baker's comments align with franchise creator Neil Druckmann's previous hints about continuing the series. In Naughty Dog's official documentary, Druckmann stated he feels 'there's one more chapter to this story' for the studio to tell. Whether Joel appears in that chapter remains speculation, but Baker's confidence suggests possibilities.

What's Naughty Dog working on now?

Don't expect a third Last of Us game anytime soon. Naughty Dog is currently developing Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, which Druckmann is directing personally. The studio also has a second unannounced project led by Shaun Escayg, who previously directed Uncharted: The Lost Legacy.

These commitments likely push any potential Last of Us Part 3 into the 2030s. The studio previously cancelled its multiplayer Last of Us project to focus on single-player experiences, suggesting they're prioritising quality over quick sequels.

What this means for The Last of Us fans

Baker's comments offer hope for fans who weren't ready to say goodbye to Joel after Part II. His belief that the character will continue across multiple mediums suggests potential for comics, films, or even cameo appearances in HBO's third season.

However, it's worth managing expectations. These are Baker's personal beliefs rather than official announcements. Naughty Dog hasn't confirmed a third game, and any future Joel content would need to navigate the challenge of featuring a deceased character meaningfully.

For now, fans can revisit Joel's story through The Last of Us Part II Remastered, which offers new ways to experience his final chapter.

Where to experience Joel's story in UAE

UAE fans can currently play The Last of Us Part I and Part II Remastered on PlayStation 5, available at local retailers including Virgin Megastore and Sharaf DG. The HBO series streams on OSN+ and other regional platforms, with both seasons available across UAE streaming services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Joel be in The Last of Us Part 3?

Troy Baker believes Joel will return in future projects, and Neil Druckmann has hinted at a third game. However, nothing is officially confirmed, and any appearance would need to work around Joel's death in current storylines.

Who plays Joel in The Last of Us?

Troy Baker voices Joel in The Last of Us video games, while Pedro Pascal portrays him in the HBO television series. Both actors have brought distinct interpretations to the character.

Is The Last of Us Part 3 confirmed?

No official confirmation exists for a third game. However, creator Neil Druckmann has stated he feels there's 'one more chapter to this story,' suggesting future development is possible.

When might The Last of Us Part 3 release?

Based on Naughty Dog's current projects, any third game likely won't arrive until the 2030s. The studio is currently focused on Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet and another unannounced title.

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