Media Molecule leaks point to open-world new IP, forage design
The Dreams studio is ditching creative tools for a traditional open-world adventure with resource gathering and exploration. Portfolio leaks reveal a dramatic shift from their user-generated content roots to structured gameplay.
Media Molecule is reportedly working on a new IP featuring 'open-world content', according to details discovered in a developer's online portfolio. As reported by MP1st, the unannounced project would mark a significant departure from the studio's traditional sandbox games like LittleBigPlanet and Dreams.
Key Takeaways
- Media Molecule is reportedly developing a new IP featuring 'open-world content' according to a developer's online portfolio.
- The project includes 'forage design' and Points of Interest, suggesting resource-gathering mechanics.
- This marks a potential shift from the studio's traditional 'play, create, share' sandbox games.
- Former Creative Director Mark Healey previously described the project as 'more of a game than a creative tool'.
- The information comes from an unverified developer resume and remains unconfirmed by PlayStation or Media Molecule.
What the leak says about Media Molecule's new direction
The developer's resume reveals they serve as 'feature owner, main contact/vision holder of various open-world content' for Media Molecule's unannounced project. This suggests the game will include larger, non-linear environments compared to the studio's previous work.
The portfolio also mentions specific responsibilities including 'level blocking out main POIs (Points of Interest), moment-to-moment gameplay' and notably, 'forage design'. The latter indicates potential resource-gathering or crafting mechanics could play a central role in the gameplay experience.
Former Creative Director Mark Healey previously stated the project would be "more of a game than a creative tool," distinguishing it from Dreams' user-generated content focus. Live support for Dreams ended in September 2023, allowing the studio to concentrate fully on this new direction.
How this differs from LittleBigPlanet and Dreams
For over a decade, Media Molecule built its reputation on 'play, create, share' experiences. LittleBigPlanet revolutionised user-generated content in console gaming, while Dreams pushed creative tools even further by allowing players to build entire games, animations, and interactive experiences.
An open-world approach represents a fundamental shift in philosophy. Rather than providing tools for players to create their own content, Media Molecule appears to be crafting a more traditional, developer-driven narrative experience with exploration and resource management at its core.
The inclusion of Points of Interest and forage systems suggests structured progression through a designed world, contrasting sharply with the freeform creativity that defined their previous titles. This aligns with broader industry trends where many studios have embraced open-world adventure formats.
Studio restructuring followed Dreams' end
Media Molecule's transition hasn't been smooth. In October 2023, reports emerged that the studio laid off up to 20% of its workforce. The company acknowledged making 'significant strategic changes' while shifting focus entirely to the new project.
These cuts reflect the challenges facing PlayStation's creative studios as they adapt to changing market demands. The move away from niche creative tools toward mainstream gaming experiences requires different expertise and team structures.
The restructuring suggests Sony Interactive Entertainment may be pushing its first-party studios toward more commercially viable projects. This trend mirrors decisions across the gaming industry where experimental titles increasingly give way to proven genres and mechanics.
What remains unclear about the project
Developer portfolios often contain outdated or preliminary information, making definitive conclusions difficult. Games in pre-production frequently undergo significant scope and design changes before release.
Key details remain unknown including the official project name, target platforms, release timeline, and whether the open-world elements constitute the entire game or specific segments. Neither PlayStation nor Media Molecule have confirmed any details about their next project.
The extent of the 'open-world content' also requires clarification. This could range from a fully explorable sandbox environment to more limited hub areas connecting traditional levels, similar to modern platformers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Media Molecule's new game?
Media Molecule is reportedly developing an unannounced new IP featuring 'open-world content' and resource-gathering mechanics, marking a departure from their traditional sandbox games.
Is Media Molecule making an open-world game?
According to a developer's portfolio, the new project includes 'open-world content' and Points of Interest design, suggesting larger, non-linear environments than previous Media Molecule titles.
When will Media Molecule's new IP be announced?
No official announcement date has been confirmed. The information comes from a developer's resume and remains unverified by PlayStation or Media Molecule.
Will the new game have creation tools like Dreams?
Former Creative Director Mark Healey described the project as 'more of a game than a creative tool', suggesting a focus on traditional gameplay rather than user-generated content.
What platforms will Media Molecule's new game launch on?
As a PlayStation Studios title, the game will likely launch as a PlayStation exclusive initially, though Sony has been expanding to PC for some first-party games.
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