Intergalactic by Naughty Dog: Rumors, Leaks, and What We Know About the Studio’s Potential Sci-Fi Project

Naughty Dog, known for The Last of Us and Uncharted, is developing a new sci-fi game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. Leaks and job postings since 2020 hinted at a new IP, with clues like creature animator roles and a resume mentioning “Project Jordan,” referring to the main character, Jordan A. Mun. Fan speculation grew until Naughty Dog officially confirmed the project in December 2024 at The Game Awards, revealing it as a PlayStation 5 sci-fi action-adventure and their “wildest, most creative story yet.”

Has Naughty Dog confirmed a sci-fi game in development?

Yes, Naughty Dog confirmed Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet in December 2024 at The Game Awards. Neil Druckmann announced it as a new franchise for PlayStation 5, with development starting in 2020. Earlier vague hints about a new project were clarified with this reveal, and Druckmann noted in 2025 that the game is playable internally, showing only “the tip of the iceberg.”

Is Naughty Dog working on a new game called Intergalactic?

Multiple leaks, including job postings for creature animators and a resume referencing “Project Jordan,” suggested Naughty Dog was developing a sci-fi game codenamed Intergalactic. These clues, combined with Neil Druckmann’s teases about a new IP, fueled speculation that was confirmed with the official announcement of Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet in December 2024.

What do we know so far about Intergalactic from Naughty Dog?

With the official announcement, Naughty Dog has confirmed several core details about Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet:

• Setting & Story Premise: A sci‑fi action‑adventure on Sempiria, a planet that “went dark” centuries ago and cut off all contact.
• Protagonist: Jordan A. Mun, a daring female bounty hunter (voiced by Tati Gabrielle) who ignores the planet’s curse and becomes stranded.
• Plot Outline: After crash‑landing, Jordan must explore, survive, and uncover why Sempiria vanished, with emotional stakes akin to Naughty Dog’s past narratives.
• Gameplay and Genre: Third‑person action‑adventure blending exploration, combat, puzzle‑solving, vehicle traversal (including spaceflight), and encounters with robotic and alien foes.
• Development & Team: In development since 2020 under creative director Neil Druckmann; features Troy Baker and a score by Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross.
• Platform and Technology: PS5 exclusive, leveraging SSD speeds, cutting‑edge graphics, haptic feedback, and 3D audio; PC port possible later.
• Current Status: Deep in production with no release window; internal sources suggest a 2026+ launch, still refining core systems.

Has Naughty Dog confirmed a sci‑fi game in development?

Yes. In December 2024, Naughty Dog officially revealed Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet as a science‑fiction action‑adventure IP. Prior hints mentioned a “new single‑player game,” but the genre was undisclosed until the PlayStation Blog announcement and TGA 2024 trailer confirmed its spacefaring premise. Studio leadership and public interviews have since reiterated that this project is indeed their next foray into sci‑fi.

Is Intergalactic Naughty Dog’s next big IP after The Last of Us and Uncharted?

Absolutely. Intergalactic marks Naughty Dog’s first original franchise in over a decade, following Uncharted (2007) and The Last of Us (2013). Official communications label it a “new franchise,” and the scale of investment, A‑list cast, top composers, marquee reveal, signals Sony’s intent to establish it alongside their flagship series. Industry analysts and studio statements alike frame it as the studio’s next major pillar IP.

What genre is Naughty Dog’s rumored Intergalactic game?

Intergalactic is a narrative‑driven, third‑person action‑adventure set in a futuristic sci‑fi universe. Players will traverse alien landscapes, solve puzzles, engage in both melee and ranged combat, and pilot spacecraft. While retaining Naughty Dog’s cinematic storytelling and set‑piece design, it introduces survival and mystery elements, stranded on a hostile planet, and hints of space‑western flair, blending exploration with thriller undertones.

Are there any leaks or job listings related to Intergalactic?

Yes, before its official reveal, a series of leaks and hints accurately foreshadowed Intergalactic’s key elements:

• “Project Jordan” Resume Leak: A mocap credit for “Jordan – Sony/Naughty Dog” revealed the protagonist’s name (Jordan A. Mun) and confirmed a new female-led IP.
• Fantasy Art Tease: Unrelated medieval‑style artwork in The Last of Us Part I turned out to be a red herring, but primed fans to expect a non‑modern setting.
• Job Listings for “Creatures” and “AI”: Openings for creature animators and AI programmers signaled diverse alien life and potential companion characters.
• Casting Calls: Leaked auditions for a “salt & pepper gray-haired man” and a “darker brunette woman” hinted at mature, narrative-driven roles outside known franchises.
• Insider Reports (Player Freedom & Tone): Rumors of “unprecedented freedom” and comparisons to open-world titles aligned with Naughty Dog’s promise of its “deepest and most ambitious gameplay.”
• Other Leaks: Tips about a violent tone, concept art snippets, and even community-management measures (disabling comments on the trailer) underscored the game’s mature, sci‑fi focus.

Most of these speculations, Jordan’s role, the sci‑fi setting, creature encounters, and enhanced gameplay freedom, proved accurate, though some (like a “Timeless Travel” title) missed the mark.

Could Intergalactic be a single-player narrative game like other Naughty Dog titles?

All signs point to a purely single-player experience. Naughty Dog has reaffirmed its dedication to cinematic, story-driven games and explicitly described Intergalactic as one of its “ambitious, brand new single player” projects. The reveal trailer centers entirely on Jordan A. Mun’s journey, with no mention of co-op or multiplayer modes. Given the studio’s track record with Uncharted and The Last of Us, fans can expect a structured narrative campaign, complete with cutscenes, character arcs, and possibly companion NPCs, rather than a live-service or multiplayer component.

Will Intergalactic be developed for PlayStation 5 and future consoles?

Intergalactic is confirmed as a PS5 exclusive, leveraging the console’s power for advanced visuals and complex gameplay. No PS4 version was announced, and Sony branding on the trailer cements first‑party status. With a potential release as late as 2026–27, it may straddle console generations, possibly receiving enhancements on next‑gen hardware, though initial launch will be on PS5 only. A PC port could follow later, following Sony’s pattern with other Naughty Dog titles, but no non‑PlayStation versions are planned at release.

Does Intergalactic hint at Naughty Dog entering the open-world or space exploration genre?

Leaks and the game’s premise suggest a shift toward more open-ended design. Insider comments about “freedom without precedent” and comparisons to open-world benchmarks imply larger, less linear environments. The concept of exploring Sempiria, potentially via Jordan’s spaceship, evokes space‑exploration mechanics, with trailers showing planetary takeoffs and orbital views. While unlikely to be a full sandbox RPG, Intergalactic may feature hub‑based or wide‑linear areas, vehicle traversal, and optional content, marking Naughty Dog’s first major foray into semi-open-world, exploration-driven gameplay.

How does Intergalactic compare to past Naughty Dog franchises in tone and setting?

Intergalactic marks Naughty Dog’s first entirely sci‑fi world, a complete 180 from its Earth‑based adventures while preserving the studio’s cinematic flair. Past franchises:

• Uncharted: globe‑trotting, Indiana Jones–style action with mythic twists
• The Last of Us: grim, post‑apocalyptic real‑world survival
• Jak & Daxter / Crash Bandicoot: fantasy‑cartoon or pure cartoon settings
• Intergalactic: full space travel, alien planets, advanced technology

Tone/setting comparison

Intergalactic swaps grounded realism for cosmic vistas and spaceships, yet still promises the emotional depth and blockbuster set‑pieces ND is known for. Early previews hint at a lighter, more adventurous tone, more quippy action‑adventure than grim survival horror, while mature themes and strong violence remain. It blends optimistic sci‑fi fun with character‑driven drama, balancing swashbuckling excitement against potentially serious questions of faith and identity.

• Setting: futuristic outer space vs. Earth (real or slightly altered)
• Tone: upbeat, playful adventure vs. dark, gritty survival
• Content: retains mature violence and drama vs. post‑apocalyptic brutality
• Style: cosmic exploration and satire vs. jungle ruins and dilapidated cities

Are there sci‑fi elements teased in Naughty Dog’s recent projects or interviews?

Naughty Dog has sprinkled hints of space fascination long before announcing Intergalactic. In TLOU 2, Ellie’s space‑museum flashback celebrated astronaut lore with accurate NASA memorabilia, showcasing the studio’s reverence for sci‑fi. Developer comments and easter eggs, ranging from fungal‑outbreak nods in Uncharted to hidden fantasy/sci‑fi art in the TLOU Remake, revealed an itch to explore new genres.

• Space Museum Scene: Ellie’s astronaut helmet and lunar module simulator in TLOU 2
• Easter Eggs: fungal‑infection teasers in Uncharted 3 and fantasy art in TLOU Remake
• Interviews: Druckmann’s openness to new IPs and genre experimentation
• Creative Freedom: PlayStation’s green light for ND to pursue any concept
• Genre Nods: “Savage Starlight” comics and subtle in‑game sci‑fi references

Is Intergalactic connected to any existing Naughty Dog universe?

No, Intergalactic is a completely new IP, unconnected to Uncharted, The Last of Us, or any older titles. Naughty Dog has confirmed it’s their first original franchise in over a decade, built from the ground up with its own lore and timeline. While fans may spot playful easter‑egg nods to past games, these are purely for fun and carry no narrative weight.

• Accessible: no prior ND knowledge needed to jump in
• Standalone IP: first new ND franchise in ten years
• No Continuity: no shared world with Uncharted, TLOU, Jak & Daxter, etc.
• Easter‑egg Nods: possible cameos (e.g., comics or plush toys) but no story links
• Separate Universes: ND’s tradition of distinct game worlds continues

What do fans expect from Naughty Dog’s first science fiction game?

Fans expect Intergalactic to combine Naughty Dog’s signature narrative and production values with fresh sci‑fi flair. Key hopes include:

• Exceptional Story and Characters: A compelling sci‑fi narrative with emotional arcs, a Black female lead, memorable supporting cast (e.g., Troy Baker), and a dynamic companion or AI sidekick.
• Cutting‑Edge Graphics and Presentation: PS5‑defining visuals, jaw‑dropping alien landscapes, lifelike character models, cinematic cutscenes, and a retrofuturistic art direction.
• Innovative Gameplay: Potentially more open design or light RPG elements (skill progression, exploration, non‑linear levels), smarter AI, new traversal mechanics (jetpacks, ship usage), while retaining refined third‑person action.
• A Balanced Tone: An adventurous spirit with humor and hope, lighter than TLOU 2 but still delivering sci‑fi thrills without feeling like product placement.
• Multiplayer or Not: Some desire co‑op or competitive modes, but most prefer ND focus on a polished single‑player campaign.
• Long‑Term Franchise Potential: Rich lore and world‑building to support sequels, spin‑offs, or media adaptations.
• Community Reaction So Far: Mostly optimistic about the sci‑fi shift, with minor critiques of early footage polish or perceived “woke” elements.

Will Intergalactic include multiplayer or live‑service components?

Naughty Dog’s recent pivot back to single‑player narrative and the lack of any multiplayer mention indicate Intergalactic will launch as a solo adventure. After canceling The Last of Us live‑service project, ND is unlikely to spread resources on online modes. While fans speculate about co‑op or post‑launch DLC, the studio’s focus remains squarely on a self‑contained story experience.

• No announced multiplayer or live‑service features.
• ND’s multiplayer history (Uncharted, TLOU) ended with recent cancellations.
• Single‑player focus confirmed by ND’s own statements.
• Co‑op or live elements are speculative and unsupported by current info.
• Future multiplayer DLC is unlikely given ND’s strategic priorities.

What art direction or visual style is expected for Intergalactic?

Intergalactic embraces a retrofuturistic aesthetic, melding vintage sci‑fi motifs (analog tech, bold color palettes) with realistic, lived‑in environments. Expect high‑fidelity character models (reflecting Tati Gabrielle’s likeness), cinematic lighting, and varied biomes on Sempiria. The design balances industrial grit and imaginative alien landscapes to showcase PS5’s power.

• Retrofuturism: Analog interfaces, brand integration (Porsche ship), cassette‑era influences.
• Realistic Design: Worn tech, utilitarian machinery, grounded enemy and environmental art.
• High‑Fidelity Characters: Detailed motion‑captured performances and expressive models.
• Environmental Variety: Multiple biomes, spaceports, ruins, natural landscapes, cosmic vistas.
• Color and Lighting: Vibrant neon contrasts, dynamic cinematic presentation, and themed HUD styling.

Could Intergalactic be a new benchmark for sci‑fi storytelling in games?

With Naughty Dog’s acclaimed narrative expertise, Intergalactic could redefine story‑driven sci‑fi by blending personal, emotionally resonant journeys with classic genre themes (faith vs. science, isolation). Its linear, cinematic approach may contrast with RPG‑heavy sci‑fi titles, setting a new standard for narrative depth and emotional impact. Industry and fan anticipation position it as a potential Game of the Year contender.

• Cross‑Media Potential: High‑quality narrative may attract adaptations beyond gaming.
• Narrative Pedigree: ND’s history of emotional, character‑driven stories.
• Fresh Sci‑Fi Themes: Ideological conflict, prophecy, and personal stakes in a futuristic setting.
• Emotional Impact: Potential for deeply affecting player experiences akin to TLOU.
• Industry Influence: Could inspire more linear, story‑focused sci‑fi projects.

Is Naughty Dog expanding into new genres beyond action-adventure with Intergalactic?

Intergalactic remains fundamentally a story‑driven action‑adventure, third‑person shooting, stealth, exploration, while branching into sci‑fi subgenres. It may include:

• Sci‑Fi setting expansions: space‑flight segments, hostile‑world survival, gear management (RPG‑lite).
• Core action‑adventure: cover‑based shooting, stealth kills, cinematic set‑pieces.
• Historical genre shifts:
  • Crash Bandicoot → 3D platformer
  • Jak & Daxter → platformer/shooter with open‑world hubs
  • Uncharted → cinematic third‑person shooter
  • The Last of Us → survival‑horror/stealth
• Elden Ring inspiration: hints at open‑world ARPG freedom without full RPG overhaul.
• Strategic fit for Sony: fills a flagship space‑adventure gap while keeping Naughty Dog’s single‑player, narrative focus.

When could Naughty Dog officially reveal Intergalactic?

Naughty Dog’s first public unveiling occurred at The Game Awards on December 12, 2024, complete with a cinematic trailer and blog post. For deeper reveals, gameplay demos, release dates, or developer insights, we can expect major showcases:

• Summer Game Fest 2025 or a dedicated PlayStation Showcase for gameplay footage.
• Gamescom or The Game Awards 2025 for story teasers or release windows.
• Release date announcement typically 6–9 months before launch, possibly in late 2025 or early 2026.

What are the most credible sources reporting on Intergalactic?

For accurate, confirmed information, rely on official channels and top‑tier outlets that cite direct statements:

• PlayStation Blog: Neil Druckmann’s December 2024 announcement.
• Naughty Dog’s Website: studio news and developer blogs.
• Major Gaming Outlets:
  • IGN
  • GameSpot
  • Video Games Chronicle (VGC)
  • Push Square
• Insider Journalists & Events:
  • Jason Schreier (Bloomberg)
  • Geoff Keighley’s Game Awards coverage
• Official Social Media: Naughty Dog and Neil Druckmann on Twitter/X, PlayStation’s YouTube channel.

Where can I find updates and news about Intergalactic from Naughty Dog?

Stay connected through Naughty Dog’s and PlayStation’s primary channels, supplemented by reliable gaming media:

• Sony Events: State of Play, PlayStation Showcase, The Game Awards, Summer Game Fest.
• Naughty Dog Blog/Website: news posts, concept art, developer diaries.
• Social Media: @Naughty_Dog and @Neil_Druckmann on Twitter/X, Instagram, Facebook.
• YouTube: PlayStation’s channel for trailers and “Inside the Animation” featurettes.
• PlayStation Blog & Newsletter: official articles and email alerts.
• Major Gaming News Sites: IGN, GameSpot, VGC for aggregated reports.
• Community Forums & Podcasts: Reddit (r/NaughtyDog, r/PlayStation), developer interviews on gaming podcasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet?
  Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is an upcoming sci-fi action-adventure game by Naughty Dog, known for Uncharted and The Last of Us. Set on a distant planet, it follows bounty hunter Jordan A. Mun, who is stranded and seeking escape. It’s Naughty Dog’s first futuristic sci-fi title, blending story-driven gameplay with exploration.
• Has Naughty Dog officially announced Intergalactic?
  Yes, Naughty Dog announced Intergalactic at The Game Awards 2024 with a debut trailer. Neil Druckmann confirmed it as their next project in a PlayStation Blog post. The game is officially in development.
• What is the story of Intergalactic about?
  Jordan A. Mun, a bounty hunter, lands on Sempiria, a planet silent for centuries with a dark past. Stranded, she must uncover its mysteries to escape, becoming the first in 600 years to do so. The subtitle “The Heretic Prophet” suggests themes of defying norms or local legends.
• Who is the protagonist and who portrays her?
  Jordan A. Mun, a skilled bounty hunter, is the protagonist, portrayed by Tati Gabrielle, known for The 100 and Uncharted. Troy Baker also has an undisclosed role. Gabrielle’s performance will bring depth to Jordan.
• When will Intergalactic be released?
  No release date is set, but Naughty Dog has been developing it since 2020. Insiders estimate a 2026 or 2027 launch due to its scope. More details on timing may come in late 2025.
• What platforms will Intergalactic be available on?
  Intergalactic is a PlayStation 5 exclusive, developed by Sony’s first-party studio Naughty Dog. No PS4 version is planned, and while a PC release is unconfirmed, it could follow later. Initially, it’s PS5-only.
• Will Intergalactic have multiplayer or co-op modes?
  No multiplayer or co-op modes are announced. Intergalactic focuses on a single-player narrative, aligning with Naughty Dog’s story-driven priorities. A multiplayer component is unlikely but not ruled out for later.
• What will gameplay be like – is it open-world?
  Expect third-person action-adventure gameplay with exploration, combat, and puzzles. Rumors suggest open-ended or open-world elements, offering more freedom on Sempiria. The trailer showed spaceship piloting and sci-fi combat, blending cinematic action with new mechanics.
• How does Intergalactic connect to Naughty Dog’s other games?
  Intergalactic is a standalone IP, unconnected to The Last of Us or Uncharted, with no shared story or world. It’s a fresh universe, though minor Easter eggs referencing past titles are possible. No prior game knowledge is needed.
• Where can I watch the trailer and get the latest updates?
  The trailer is on PlayStation’s YouTube channel. Updates can be found on the PlayStation Blog, Naughty Dog’s Twitter (@Naughty_Dog), Neil Druckmann’s Twitter (@Neil_Druckmann), and gaming news sites like IGN and GameSpot.

Conclusion

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, a PS5-exclusive sci-fi action-adventure game by Naughty Dog, is their first new IP in over a decade. It centers on Jordan A. Mun, a stranded heroine on a mysterious planet, with Naughty Dog’s hallmark emotional storytelling. Announced at The Game Awards, it stars Tati Gabrielle, with music by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, suggesting top-tier production. Rumors hint at open-world exploration, potentially blending narrative and gameplay innovatively. As Naughty Dog’s next major title, it aims to redefine sci-fi gaming, with fans awaiting further updates.

Sources and Citations:

1. Druckmann, N. – PlayStation Blog Announcement of Intergalactic (Dec 12, 2024PlayStation Blog – Intergalactic Announcement
2. Middler, J. – VGC News: Naughty Dog’s next game, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, announceVGC – Intergalactic Announcement
3. IGN Staff – The Game Awards Reveal Coverage (IGNIGN – Game Awards 2024 Intergalactic Reveal
4. Ruiz, M. – PlayStation LifeStyle: Druckmann provides update, “playing it in office… it’s really goodPlayStation LifeStyle – Intergalactic Update
5. West, J. – GamesRadar: Everything we know about Intergalactic (updated Mar 2025GamesRadar – Intergalactic Overview
6. GameSpot Staff – Intergalactic Trailer & Details Breakdown (GameSpotGameSpot – Intergalactic Trailer Breakdown
7. Areajugones – Analysis of rumors vs reality (SpanishAreajugones – Intergalactic Rumors
8. Naughty Dog – Official Naughty Dog Blog: “An Update on The Last of Us Online” (context on focus shiftNaughty Dog Blog – The Last of Us Online Update
9. VGC – Contextual quote: Druckmann on narrative goals and multiple projects (LA Times via VGCVGC – Druckmann Interview
10. Space.com – Entertainment: Intergalactic announcement recap, tone (“light-hearted action roots”Space.com – Intergalactic Recap

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