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The Last of Us’ ‘Outbreak Day’ renamed due to COVID-19

When The Last of Us first launched in 2013, the notion of a modern global pandemic was nothing but fiction at the time. Now, as the entire world has been plunged into such a pandemic, the series’ creator’s annual fan event ‘Outbreak Day’ has taken on a different meaning. It is for that reason, that ahead of this year’s event, Naughty dog has decided to change the name to The Last of Us Day.

In a statement on Twitter, Naughty Dog announced “For the last 7 years, September 26 has been our opportunity to recognize and celebrate the incredible passion of The Last of Us community. 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.”

Explaining further, they said “While the name and date are rooted in the fiction of the game, September 26 means so much more than lore. It's about showing our appreciation for our fans. That's why, this Saturday and moving forward, September 26 will be known as The Last of Us Day – a name that not only acknowledges the world around us, but also reflects the growth of the community as we welcome millions of new players with the release of The Last of Us Part II.”

With the newly christened ‘The Last of Us Day’ just around the corner, Naughty Dog provided a small tease of what is to come, saying “We have a lot of exciting things planned and we can't wait to share them with you in just a few days!”

While the term ‘outbreak’ is in no way unique to the current ongoing pandemic, there is no denying that the word has taken on new connotations in the wake of COVID-19. It therefore makes sense that Naughty Dog would want to separate its game from the pandemic, while still celebrating the much-loved franchise.

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