Neil Druckmann: "Sequel Planning Requires Confidence I Lack"

At the DICE Summit in Las Vegas, Naughty Dog's Neil Druckmann and Sony Santa Monica's Cory Barlog discussed the pervasive theme of doubt in game development. Their hour-long conversation covered self-doubt, recognizing successful ideas, and approaching character development across multiple games.

Druckmann surprisingly revealed he doesn't plan sequels beforehand. He focuses intensely on the current project, approaching each game as if it were his last. Any sequel ideas are spontaneous, integrated directly into the current game rather than saved for later. He views sequel development as a retrospective process: identifying unresolved elements and exploring new directions for characters. If no compelling path exists, he suggests ending the character's arc. He cited the Uncharted series as an example, emphasizing the iterative nature of their development, where each sequel built organically upon the previous one.

Barlog, conversely, admitted to a more meticulously planned approach, connecting current projects to ideas conceived years earlier. He acknowledged the inherent stress and potential for conflict arising from such long-term planning, especially given the changing teams and perspectives across multiple projects. Druckmann countered that this requires a level of confidence he doesn't possess, preferring to concentrate on the immediate tasks at hand.

The discussion shifted to the driving forces behind their careers. Druckmann shared an anecdote about Pedro Pascal's perspective on art as "the reason to wake up in the morning," echoing his own passion for game development despite the inherent stress and negativity.

Druckmann then posed a question to Barlog about the point at which the creative compulsion becomes "enough," particularly in light of a colleague's recent retirement. Barlog's response was candid and insightful, describing the relentless nature of creative drive and the difficulty of appreciating accomplishments. The "demon of obsession" continues pushing for more, even after reaching significant milestones.

Druckmann expressed a similar sentiment, but with a more measured approach. He highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for others by gradually stepping back from day-to-day responsibilities, eventually allowing others to take on the challenges and creative risks. Barlog, in a humorous counterpoint, jokingly declared his intention to retire.