Neil Druckmann’s Enduring Connection to *Ico*

In September 2001, Fumito Ueda’s Ico launched on the PlayStation 2—and left a profound, lasting impression on The Last of Us co-creator and director Neil Druckmann. Even 25 years after its release, Druckmann still cites a pivotal late-game scene in Ico as his favorite moment in any video game. Warning: spoilers follow for this quarter-century-old title.

A Defining Emotional Moment

“My favorite moment in a game—the one that made my jaw drop when it happened—is in Ico,” Druckmann told BAFTA in a recent interview. “We talked about how there’s this core mechanic where you’re holding Yorda’s hand and leading her through the world… and she feels like this vulnerable, seemingly helpless character you’re guiding.”

The Bridge Sequence: A Turning Point

“Then, near the end of the game, you’re on a bridge that’s slowly splitting apart—Yorda stands on one side, you on the other, and you have no idea what to do,” Druckmann continued. “All you can do is sprint toward the widening gap and leap toward her. It looks like you won’t make it—you’re certain you’ll fall to your death. In the final instant, she reaches out and grabs you. It was such an emotional moment because you don’t expect it. She’s never done that at any other point in the game.”

An Inspirational Design Revelation

Druckmann described the sequence as truly inspirational—crediting the handholding mechanic for fostering an unprecedented emotional investment in Yorda. “I got this twist and evolution of both the character and the relationship,” he said. “I don’t know how you *don’t* get emotional playing that part. I’ve been chasing that feeling with every game I’ve made ever since.”

Druckmann previously honored Ico during its 20th anniversary, calling it his favorite game of all time.

Current and Future Projects

Until earlier this year, Druckmann served as co-showrunner of HBO’s The Last of Us. He stepped down from that role at the conclusion of Season 2 to refocus fully on game development. His next project is Naughty Dog’s Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, a PlayStation console exclusive. While Druckmann has not ruled out developing The Last of Us Part III, its production remains unconfirmed—and neither timeline nor official greenlight has been announced.