When gaming meets pop culture, sparks fly—and that’s exactly what happened when Kanye West publicly endorsed The Last of Us Part II. Known for his larger-than-life presence and strong opinions, Kanye’s nod to Naughty Dog’s acclaimed title has set social media ablaze and renewed interest in the 2020 game.
Why Kanye’s Endorsement Matters
Kanye West isn’t your typical gamer, which is why his shoutout caught fans off guard. Whether in an interview, social post, or one of his famous rants, his mention of The Last of Us Part II has added a new layer of intrigue to a game packed with emotional depth and controversy.
This unexpected crossover between hip-hop and gaming highlights the broader cultural impact of TLOU2. It’s not just a game—it’s a story-driven experience with cinematic flair, something Kanye has long admired in visual and musical storytelling.
What Did He Say?
Kanye reportedly praised the game’s emotional complexity and character development, particularly Ellie’s inner conflict and the bold, polarizing narrative choices. “It’s art,” he allegedly said—short, strong, and exactly how Kanye does things. Some fans even speculate that certain visual or emotional themes from TLOU2 could inspire elements in his next album or Yeezy campaign.
Kanye West’s Connection to Gaming
This isn’t Kanye’s first brush with gaming. In 2015, he announced a game titled Only One, inspired by his late mother, Donda. The project, however, never reached completion. Kanye has also expressed admiration for gaming icon Hideo Kojima, once publicly requesting a meeting with him.
Fan Reactions Are Mixed (As Usual)
Reactions have ranged from excitement to confusion. Diehard fans of the game love the extra spotlight, while others are more skeptical, questioning whether the endorsement was genuine or simply another headline grab. Regardless, Kanye’s influence is undeniable, and his words have sparked renewed downloads and discussions across gaming forums.
Could This Signal a New Era of Gamer-Celeb Collaborations?
With A-listers like Kanye recognizing narrative-driven games like The Last of Us Part II, the line between gaming and mainstream entertainment continues to blur. We’ve seen celebrities voice characters and stream casually, but endorsements like this suggest something deeper: gaming is no longer niche—it’s culture.
What’s Next for Naughty Dog?
Naughty Dog is currently working on a new IP, tentatively titled Intergalactic, while The Last of Us Part 3 is also confirmed to be in early development. Although details remain scarce, fans eagerly await further announcements.