‘The Last of Us’ Multiplayer Game is Officially Cancelled

Naughty Dog’s recent decision to pull the plug on ‘The Last of Us Online’ left both gamers and developers in a state of mixed emotions. After a substantial four-year investment in the untitled multiplayer spin-off, the studio cited concerns about diverting crucial development resources away from their upcoming single-player projects.

In a recent statement, Naughty Dog presented two potential paths: transforming into a “solely live service games studio” or sticking to their roots by continuing to deliver blockbuster titles like ‘Uncharted’ and ‘The Last of Us’ – the latter having unexpectedly wowed players with its stellar multiplayer mode in Factions.

Amidst the disappointment, developers, both current and former, took to social media to share their sentiments. Nathaniel Ferguson, a technical designer, reflected on the cancelled project as the “highlight of my career” and expressed optimism for what lies ahead.

Also Read: ‘Assassin’s Creed Mirage’ New Update Brings Game Plus Mode

Karl Morley, a game designer, tantalizingly described the multiplayer project as the most enjoyable experience he’s had in the genre, a statement that leaves us yearning for a game we might never experience.

Dialogue director Kat McNally acknowledged the difficulty of having a game cancelled but proudly commended the studio for its achievements on the project. Despite the setback, the prevailing outlook among the former developers of ‘The Last of Us Online’ is one of hope for Naughty Dog’s future. The studio has hinted at multiple “ambitious” single-player endeavours, ensuring that bright horizons lie ahead.

The cancellation of any game, especially a potential successor to the unique Factions mode, is undeniably disheartening. Yet, the overall sentiment from Naughty Dog’s former developers remains positive.