The Last of Us to be the Next Big Thing?

Updated 07 February 2012: Sony Computer Entertainment has announced The Last of Us, a new franchise created exclusively for PlayStation3.

Developed by Naughty Dog (best known for introducing Crash Bandicoot on the original PlayStation), The Last of Us was unveiled in a world premiere trailer at the Spike TV 2011 Video Game Award Show.

Blending elements of action and survival, the game tells a character driven story about a population decimated by a modern plague. Joel, a ruthless survivor, and Ellie, a brave young teenage girl who is wise beyond her years, must work together to survive their journey across what remains of the United States.

The Last of Us has been developed by some of the industry’s most talented game designers including Bruce Straley, Game Director and Neil Druckmann, Creative Director.

Update: See the highly cinematic and rather bloody trailer!