‘Just stick to your guns’: Neil Druckmann isn’t phased by all the hate Intergalactic got, ‘There’s stuff happening with media right now that you just have to ignore’

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet made its debut at last year’s The Game Awards, a platform known for showcasing high-profile titles. Naughty Dog, a studio renowned for its blockbuster games, secured a coveted slot towards the end of the event—an area typically reserved for those with substantial financial backing looking to leave a significant mark. However, the impact of Intergalactic’s trailer was not entirely as anticipated.

During the livestream, viewers flooded the comments section with critiques, labeling the game a “DEI game” and expressing discontent over what they perceived as a “woke” agenda, largely due to the fact that the protagonist is a Black woman. This reaction highlights the ongoing discussions surrounding representation in gaming, a topic that continues to evoke strong opinions across the community.

Industry Reactions and Perspectives

In a related conversation, Doug Cockle, the voice actor for Geralt in The Witcher series, addressed the backlash against the franchise’s decision to feature Ciri as the protagonist in the upcoming installment. Cockle emphasized the importance of diversity in storytelling, stating, “We can’t just have Geralt for every single game,” and encouraged fans to engage with the source material to better understand the narrative choices being made.

Neil Druckmann, co-president of Naughty Dog, shared his enthusiasm for Intergalactic, expressing that he is “very, very excited for this game, maybe as excited as I’ve been for any game.” He described it as having the “deepest gameplay” the studio has ever produced, a phrase that, while intriguing, leaves many curious about its specific implications. Despite the mixed reactions, the trailer managed to capture attention, showcasing glimpses of a retro spaceship and introducing the new bounty hunter protagonist, alongside a nod to classic anime with an Akira reference.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the anticipation surrounding Intergalactic suggests that there is potential for this title to carve out its own niche, regardless of the initial criticisms it faced. With a blend of innovative gameplay and a commitment to diverse storytelling, Naughty Dog seems poised to make a lasting impression in the industry once again.

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'Just stick to your guns': Neil Druckmann isn't phased by all the hate Intergalactic got, 'There's stuff happening with media right now that you just have to ignore'