The news that Troy Baker is joining Naughty Dog’s upcoming game has stirred the pot among fans of The Last of Us. Many are questioning whether this signals the arrival of The Last of Us Part 3. While Joel’s demise in the previous game led some to assume that TLOU3 might not be on the horizon, Baker’s involvement leaves room for plenty of exciting possibilities, reassuring The Last of Us enthusiasts.
This development might pave the way for innovative experiences in the TLOU universe, or perhaps showcase Baker’s talents in an entirely new role, similar to his part in HBO’s adaptation of The Last of Us. With Baker’s remarkable versatility as a voice actor, his contribution is unlikely to rely just on nostalgic value.
Troy Baker, synonymous with Joel Miller, has also impressed with a variety of roles in other games. He’s breathed life into characters such as Sam Drake in Uncharted and the dark Delson Rowe in Infamous: Second Son, all of which display his skill in portraying diverse characters, from charming explorers to brooding anti-heroes.
Moreover, he holds a special place in the hearts of The Last of Us fandom. It’s this unique range that allows Naughty Dog the creative leeway to incorporate Baker in numerous ways in their forthcoming project. No surprise his cameo in HBO’s series was a major highlight.
Could Joel make a comeback? It’s possible Baker’s return might still touch on the TLOU narrative without contradicting Joel’s fate in TLOU2. Since TLOU2 featured flashbacks prominently, TLOU3 could utilize them or dream sequences, memories, or even hallucinations to bring Joel back. Such a narrative approach would enable his presence within the story, enabling Ellie’s development and welcoming new characters to the stage.
Even if Baker’s role in Naughty Dog’s project doesn’t feature Joel dominantly, there’s potential for him to appear in a subtler capacity. A small cameo or an NPC role might be in the cards, akin to his appearance in HBO’s TLOU series.
A fresh NPC role could offer Baker the opportunity to portray a character hailing from an entirely different background, adding depth to the TLOU world. This approach would allow the franchise to keep leveraging Baker’s connection while exploring new narratives. By tapping into Baker’s vocal prowess, Naughty Dog could craft a memorable non-playable character that enriches the series’ lore.
