Naughty Dog may have had up to three single-player games in development last year, according to new rumors that shed light on the studio’s direction after canceling The Last of Us Online. Reputable leaker DanielRPK claims one of these projects was canceled about three months ago.
The scrapped game was reportedly led by Vinit Agarwal, who quietly left Naughty Dog in January. Development had apparently lasted over a year, beginning only after the studio abandoned its multiplayer project. No details about the canceled game’s concept have surfaced.
The same source previously revealed another unannounced single-player title still in development at Naughty Dog, this one directed by Shaun Escayg. This project appears separate from Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, suggesting the studio is expanding beyond The Last of Us franchise.
These reports align with comments from co-president Neil Druckmann, who hinted at a creative shift: “I promise you, we will not be the ‘Last of Us’ studio forever.” He confirmed multiple single-player projects were underway.
Naughty Dog has officially stated that “more than one ambitious, brand new single player game” is in development. While one may have been canceled, both Intergalactic and Escayg’s project could still be progressing. Speculation suggests the third game might be Uncharted-related, though this remains unconfirmed.
With limited details and no official word from Naughty Dog, fans will need to wait to see which projects ultimately move forward.