Coronavirus: The Last of Us Part II delayed indefinitely due to COVID-19

The Last of Us Part II has been delayed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Last of Us Part II will continue the original game's story of Joel and Ellie. Photo credit: Naughty Dog

PlayStation's hotly anticipated The Last of Us Part II has had its release date postponed due to logistical difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The post-apocalyptic epic had been due for release on May 29 and its new delayed release date hasn't been announced.

A statement from the game's developer, Naughty Dog, suggests the specific logistical problems involved delivery.

"We're sure this news is just as disappointing to you as it is to us... we were bummed about this decision but ultimately understood it's what's best and fair to all our players," says Naughty Dog in a statement.

"Even with us finishing the game, we were faced with the reality that due to logistics beyond our control, we couldn't launch The Last of Us Part II to our satisfaction. 

"We want to make sure everyone gets to play [it] around the same time, ensuring everything that we're doing everything possible to preserve the best experience for everyone. This meant delaying the game until such a time where we can solve these logistic issues."

Another PlayStation game, virtual reality title Marvel's Iron Man VR, has also been delayed indefinitely.

In a statement released on March 27, Sony outlined the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic on its business.

Despite the game delays, both in that company statement and further comments to media, Sony has insisted its upcoming next-generation console the PlayStation 5's release is still scheduled for late 2020.