A mod intended to introduce multiplayer functionality in The Last of Us Part II for personal computers will not be released. Sony Interactive Entertainment sent a notification to the project developer, identified as Speclizer, requiring the modification to be removed from the market.
The development of this mod began in January and was scheduled to debut this month. The modder reported dedicating about nine months of work before receiving intervention from Sony. Speclizer shared the situation on his social media, confirming receipt of an official correspondence from Sony Interactive Entertainment requesting the halt of launch plans.
The creator stated: 'As everyone knows, the TLOU 2 multiplayer mod has been in development since January and was supposed to be released this month. Unfortunately, I recently received a letter on behalf of Sony Interactive Entertainment requesting that the mod not be released.' Following this request, Speclizer expressed gratitude for community support and announced that he will focus on a new, original project.
The funding for the multiplayer development was partially obtained through supporters on the Patreon platform. However, Sony did not publicly disclose the specific reasons that led to the request to suspend the project.
The mod's proposal was relatively simple, resembling the Factions mode present in the first The Last of Us, rather than the ambitious online project conceived by Naughty Dog. It would allow players to use characters from The Last of Us Part II's campaign in multiplayer matches held across various scenarios within the game itself.
Videos shared during the creation process showed a structure similar to typical online modes of PS3-generation games, adapting existing features of The Last of Us Part II for player confrontations. The existence of this mod also generated interest, given that The Last of Us Part II never had an official multiplayer mode.
Naughty Dog did develop an online experience within the franchise universe, but this project was canceled before its release. With Speclizer's decision to comply with Sony's request, the mod ceases to be an option for PC players interested in an experience similar to the old Factions. For now, the creator has not provided details about his next venture, only mentioning that it will be something original. The news about the mod's blockage was initially published by Olhar Digital.