Naughty Dog's Next Game Rumored to Echo FromSoftware Style

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 the planet Sempiria, where players will delve into the mysteries of a long-lost civilization and explore a new religion central to 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 feature a solo protagonist, bounty hunter Jordan Moon, who arrives on Sempiria as part of her contract. Neil Druckmann emphasizes that this game will focus on conveying a profound sense of solitude within an uncharted universe, while also deeply exploring themes of faith and religion. The story unfolds in an alternate future where Sempiria has been isolated from the rest of the galaxy for over 600 years.

Druckmann also highlights that the game's development drew inspiration from titles like Half-Life 2 and Monkey Island. This suggests a move away from conventional narrative guidance, encouraging players to piece together the story through exploration and discovery.

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.