Naughty Dog Admits Undue Appropriation of Redesigned Map of Boston Subway for The Last of Us, Apologizes

Naughty Dog Admits Undue Appropriation of Redesigned Map of Boston Subway for The Last of Us, Apologizes

Giuseppe Nelva June 25, 2013 4:41 PM EST

A few hours ago I reported about Naughty Dog allegedly appropriating an unofficial, redesigned map of the Boston Subway created last year by designer and Tumblr user Cameron Booth and using it as part of the environmental assets in The Last of Us.

Booth posted a vitriolic “J’accuse,” showing a comparison between his map and the one featured in the game. The two pictures were objectively identical (short of some heavy weathering added over the one in The Last of Us). Upon contact from the offended party the folks at Naughty Dog were quick to admit the mistake and apologize, as Booth himself posted on his Transit Maps Tumblr.

I’ve just spoken with Naughty Dog over the phone in a very constructive conversation. Can’t say more at the moment, but it seems as if matters will be resolved to everyone’s satisfaction shortly. I can say that they do acknowledge their error in using my map and were very apologetic for it. I likewise apologised for my initial vitriolic post. A lot of mutual respect for each other’s creative work. It’s been a hell of a last couple of days: thanks for the support from many, and the interesting and varied comments from most. Hopefully, back to regularly scheduled Transit Maps content soon!

All’s well that ends well. Looks like both parties found a settlement and respect is restored. Now we’ll have to see if Naughty Dog will manage to placate Ellen Page as well.