As someone who was deeply invested in The Last of Us universe from the beginning, I have to admit, Joel's absence and Abby's prominence in Part II left me feeling... conflicted, to say the least. Joel was such a central figure in the first game, and his character arc resonated with me on a personal level. So, to see him gone and to be asked to sympathize with his killer was a bitter pill to swallow.
I understand that Naughty Dog wanted to subvert expectations and challenge players, but for me, it felt like they veered off course. Abby's redemption arc just didn't resonate with me in the same way Joel and Ellie's journey did. It's not that I'm opposed to new protagonists or fresh perspectives, but it's hard to muster up enthusiasm for a Part 3 when the heart and soul of the series feels fractured.
That being said, I'm not completely writing off the idea of a Part 3. If Naughty Dog can find a way to rekindle that emotional connection and deliver a narrative that honors Joel's legacy while charting new territory, then count me back in. But until then, my interest remains on the sidelines, waiting for a reason to jump back into the fray.