Naughty Dog's Next Game Rumored to Echo FromSoftware Style

Naughty Dog

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet promises to offer players a significantly more expansive experience than the studio's previous projects. Inspired by the likes of Elden Ring, the developers are set to introduce open-world exploration mechanics that will allow players to roam freely across a single, vast planet. This shift marks a departure from the linear narratives that have characterized their earlier works, aiming instead to embrace a more open-ended gameplay style.

According to journalist Ben Hanson, the game is set on a large planet where players will unravel the mysteries of a long-lost civilization and delve into a new religion, which plays a central role in the storyline. While it's not yet clear how closely the game will adhere to traditional open-world concepts, it's clear that the developers are pushing boundaries and exploring new territories in game design.

The Heretic Prophet will be the studio's first venture into a solo player experience, with no companions or allies to assist the player. As Neil Druckmann explains, the game aims to evoke a profound sense of solitude within an uncharted universe, while also exploring deep themes of faith and religion. The narrative unfolds on the planet Sempiria, isolated from the rest of the galaxy for over 600 years, where players take on the role of bounty hunter Jordan Moon, who arrives on the planet as part of her contract.

Druckmann also highlights that the game's development drew inspiration from titles such as Half-Life 2 and Monkey Island. This influence suggests a move away from conventional guidance systems, leaning instead towards a narrative style where players must actively piece together the story from scattered fragments.

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet was announced at The Game Awards 2024, but a release date has yet to be confirmed. As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see how this ambitious project will redefine the studio's approach to gaming.