In the world ofThe Last of Us,September 26 is the day the deadly cordyceps virus was set loose on the public, sending the world into chaos and providing the post-apocalyptic setting of the game and its recently released sequel. Since the widely acclaimed blockbuster hit PlayStation 3, the date has become synonymous withThe Last of Us,seeing fans from all across the world come together as a community and celebrate their love for Ellie and Joel’s adventures.
This event was dubbed “Outbreak Day,” however, it seems it’s a title thatNaughty Dogisn’t too keen on keeping in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic and all the harm it has caused. Taking to Twitter, the studio announced that it would be changing the name of the annual event, labeling it The Last of Us Day instead.
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“For the last 7 years, September 26 has been our opportunity to recognize and celebrate the incredible passion ofThe Last of Uscommunity. However, as we thought about the events of the last year and the challenges we all continue to face with COVID-19, we didn’t feel right continuing on under the ‘Outbreak Day’ banner,” a statement from the studio claims. “September 26 means so much more than lore. It’s about showing appreciation to our fans,” the comment continues, affirming that, moving forward, the day will be known as The Last of Us Day rather than Outbreak Day.
It’s a strong move that clearly shows Naughty Dog is being mindful of the tragic circumstances currently plaguing the globe asCOVID-19continues to spread. As the statement claims, the day has since grown much bigger than its significance in the canon of the games, becoming an opportunity for the franchise’s biggest fans to discuss their love for its world and characters. The statement concludes by announcing that the team has a few fun things planned for the event, revealing that they’ll be sharing what to expect from The Last of UsDay very soon.
Of course, many are hoping that the event will bring news about the return of Factions mode, with Naughty Dog claiming that the multiplayerLast of Usexperience would return in the future. The decision to make the multiplayer separate came after Naughty Dog opted to remove the mode to focus more on the campaign, confirming that it would work on the online elements in a separate release. Since then, fans have been clamoring for more Factions, keeping their eyes open for Naughty Dog to formally announce the mode’s return.
There’s also the possibility of the team confirming whether or notThe Last of Us 2will get an enhanced edition on the PlayStation 5, with many speculating that an upgraded edition could come bundled with the Factions online mode. Luckily, the event will take place this Saturday, so fans won’t have to wait long to find out.
The Last of UsDaytakes place on September 26.
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