Dark Horse Releases 600-Page ‘The Last of Us’ Script Book
▼ Summary
– Dark Horse is releasing a hardcover book containing the complete scripts for *The Last of Us: Part I* and *Part II* video games, set to publish on December 16.
– The 616-page omnibus includes scripts for *The Last of Us* (2013), *Left Behind* (2014), and *Part II* (2020), written by Neil Druckmann and Halley Gross.
– This is a rare opportunity for fans and aspiring game writers, as AAA game scripts are typically inaccessible outside the industry.
– The book is unprecedented, as no other full video game script has been published in this format before.
– *The Last of Us*’s linear, cinematic structure makes it uniquely suited for a scriptbook, unlike choice-based or open-world games.
Fans of The Last of Us can soon dive deeper into the acclaimed franchise with a massive 600-page script collection from Dark Horse. This hardcover omnibus compiles the complete scripts for both The Last of Us: Part I and Part II, offering an unprecedented look at the narrative backbone of Naughty Dog’s masterpieces. Scheduled for release on December 16, the book is already available for preorder at $66.63, down from its original $70 price tag.
The collection spans 616 pages, featuring the original 2013 game, the Left Behind DLC, and the 2020 sequel. Neil Druckmann, Naughty Dog’s creative lead, penned the first installment and its expansion, while Part II was co-written with Halley Gross. Given the duo’s recent work on HBO’s adaptation, this release provides a rare opportunity to study the storytelling techniques behind one of gaming’s most cinematic experiences.
Unlike traditional screenplays, video game scripts are seldom published, making this a groundbreaking release for enthusiasts and aspiring writers alike. While some TV shows release teleplay collections, full game scripts remain a rarity, partly because many titles rely on branching narratives or open-world design, which wouldn’t translate well to print. The Last of Us, however, thrives in this format due to its linear, story-driven structure.
The book promises to reveal hidden details and behind-the-scenes insights, enriching future playthroughs. Fans can expect to find not just dialogue but also environmental storytelling cues and scene directions that shaped Joel and Ellie’s journey. For those eager to explore further, Amazon’s preorder ensures the best price, with adjustments applied automatically before shipping.
This release follows a trend of HBO scriptbooks, including Succession and the upcoming Stranger Things collections. While the network hasn’t yet announced plans for its The Last of Us adaptation scripts, the game’s original material now takes center stage. Meanwhile, collectors can also preorder The Last of Us Season 2 on 4K Blu-ray, with a Limited Edition Steelbook available for $35, a significant discount from its $47 retail price.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a budding game writer, this scriptbook offers a unique glimpse into the craft behind one of gaming’s most celebrated narratives. Preorders are live now, with delivery set just in time for the holidays.
(Source: Game Spot)
