Earlier this week, an incredibly significant leak occured to do with The Last of Us Part II. Essentially, the upcoming sequel's entire plot surfaced online along with cutscenes and gameplay footage. Many didn't take too kindly to what was revealed, however, Naughty Dog put out a statement on the matter and insisted the leaked material isn't reflective of the final product.
It was believed that the leaker acted as they did on account of a pay dispute with Naughty Dog. The studio reportedly did/do not treat their employees as would be proper. However, it seems that some, if not all, of this may have been false all along.
Sony has declared (via GamesIndustry.biz) that they have identified the individual/s responsible for the leaks. It's said that the leaker/s "were not affiliated with Sony Interactive Entertainment or Naughty Dog." This more or less throws out the idea that they were a disgruntled developer acting rashly on account of a pay dispute.
Their identity has not been made public. At this time, it's unknown how the leaker/s will be prosecuted for their actions, though, they most likely have a pretty substantial lawsuit on their hands. Sony declined to comment any further on the matter as "the information was currently subject to an ongoing investigation."
In other The Last of Us Part II news; shortly after the aforementioned leaks took place, Sony and Naughty Dog announced a new release date for the highly anticipated sequel — find out more on that here.
Five years after their dangerous journey across the post-pandemic United States, Ellie and Joel have settled down in Jackson, Wyoming. Living amongst a thriving community of survivors has allowed them peace and stability, despite the constant threat of the infected and other, more desperate survivors. When a violent event disrupts that peace, Ellie embarks on a relentless journey to carry out justice and find closure. As she hunts those responsible one by one, she is confronted with the devastating physical and emotional repercussions of her actions.
The Last of Us Part II is set to release exclusively for the PlayStation 4 on June 19th, 2020.