It’s been almost three years since Media Molecule ended support for Dreams and announced in 2024 that its next project would be new IP. While there’s been nary a peep on what to expect, MP1st has reportedly discovered a senior environment designer’s portfolio for an “unannounced project” and “new IP” that indicated the inclusion of “open-world content.”
Besides serving as “feature owner, main contact/vision holder of various open-world content” for the titles, their responsibilities include “level blocking main POIs (Points of Interest), moment-to-moment gameplay,” something called “forage design”, and providing feedback on other level designers’ work. They’re also responsible for “calibrating with multiple disciplines, including leading peers, tech designers, programmers, artists and production.”
It’s worth noting that “open-world content” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s within the same genre. Media Molecule could instead be implementing such content for more of, say, a traditional 3D platforming experience.
However, it’s hard to say, especially since very little has been revealed about the project, aside from being more of game than a creative tool (and not sequel to Dreams). You have to wonder how the studio has fared in this day and age of PlayStation Studios, especially after layoffs in October 2023 and, allegedly, being close to closure in early 2024.
If its new project has made enough progress, perhaps we could see an announcement at State of Play on June 2nd. The 60+ minute showcase is confirmed to feature Marvel’s Wolverine and potentially the rumored God of War spin-off starring Faye. Insider NateTheHate claims there would be other exclusives besides those two, and while Naughty Dog’s Intergalactic is favored, Media Molecule could very well surprise us all. Stay tuned for updates in the meantime.