Rumor: Naughty Dog's Next Game Will Be Similar to a FromSoftware Title

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 more linear structures of their past games, aiming to provide a richer, more immersive environment.

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 narrative. 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 in terms of player freedom and exploration.

In a notable change for the studio, The Heretic Prophet will be their first project where players navigate the world solo, without companions or allies. Neil Druckmann emphasizes that this design choice aims to evoke a profound sense of solitude within an uncharted universe, while also exploring deep themes of faith and religion. The story unfolds in an alternate future on the planet Sempiria, which has been isolated from the rest of the galaxy for over 600 years. It is here that players will follow the journey 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 like Half-Life 2 and Monkey Island. This influence suggests a move away from conventional narrative guidance, encouraging players to piece together the story through scattered fragments, enhancing the sense of discovery and personal engagement with the game's world.

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet was announced at The Game Awards 2024, though 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 game design and storytelling.