New Uncharted Game in Development at Naughty Dog, Nathan Drake Rumored to Return

According to recent reports, Naughty Dog is developing a fresh Uncharted installment rather than a remake, with protagonist Nathan Drake expected to appear in some capacity. Director Shaun Escayg, who previously helmed Uncharted: The Lost Legacy, is said to be leading the project, which may follow the studio's completion of Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. The exact nature of Drake's involvement—whether as the main character, supporting role, or cameo—remains unclear pending official confirmation from Sony or Naughty Dog.

Naughty Dog's development slate suggests significant timeline expectations for franchise fans. The studio is juggling multiple projects simultaneously, including the forthcoming Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet and several The Last of Us-related titles in addition to this rumored Uncharted entry. Director Shaun Escayg brings experience from helming The Lost Legacy, the 2017 spinoff that successfully shifted focus away from Drake to explore Chloe Frazer's perspective.

The specific nature of Drake's involvement remains particularly significant given Uncharted 4's narrative closure. That game deliberately concluded the character's adventure arc with his retirement and family life, creating narrative tension around how future installments might justify his return or reposition the franchise toward other established characters.