Developers of Canceled Last of Us Game Working on Their Own Multiplayer Title

Approximately two years have passed since “The Last of Us Online” was officially scrapped. This ambitious online multiplayer endeavor aimed to enhance the Factions mode from the initial “The Last of Us” game. Sadly, Naughty Dog decided to terminate the project due to the immense resources a live service model would necessitate. However, two developers who were involved in the project have now confirmed they’re working on something new.

In a chat with GameSpark, it’s been verified that two ex-Naughty Dog team members have collaborated on a new venture for quite some time now. Previously serving as the Game Director and Creative Director at Naughty Dog respectively, Vinit Agarwal and Joe Pettinati have joined forces to establish their own studio. They are currently developing a game with a concept reminiscent of The Last of Us Online’s multiplayer format. Fans eagerly anticipating a game inspired by Factions might want to stay tuned for further updates on this exciting project.

In an interview with GameSpark, Agarwal clearly pointed out that The Last of Us’s multiplayer mode served as a significant source of inspiration for him. Following the cancellation of a spinoff project he was working on, Agarwal has joined forces with Pettinati to develop a new online multiplayer game, inspired by a similar concept.

What We Know About the New Multiplayer Game from Former Naughty Dog Devs

The new game, being developed by a small independent studio, is currently in its initial phases. As such, the developers are holding back on providing extensive details about it. Nevertheless, Agarwal shared with GameSpark that the game is already playable. This multiplayer title features dynamic gameplay that emphasizes cinematic elements. The studio aims to expand its team for both its Japanese and American offices in the future, but intends to keep the number of employees modest to control costs.

Since The Last of Us Online has been scrapped, it’s clear that this upcoming game won’t rely on any intellectual property from the series. Instead, there’s a strong possibility that it will be an entirely new concept conceived by the studio. However, Agarwal has explicitly mentioned that the new project bears resemblance to Factions in The Last of Us, so fans of that mode might find the gameplay familiar.

It seems that the upcoming game appears to be influenced by the online concept found in “The Last of Us”. Judging from leaked development resources, the game would have included a lobby area, battle pass system, and a free-to-play structure with optional in-game purchases. It’s probable that the new game will incorporate similar features.

Given that the project is still in its developmental phase, it’s uncertain when an official unveiling will take place. However, enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the multiplayer online version of The Last of Us should definitely stay tuned for updates over the next few months.

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2025-08-15 21:20