A PC multiplayer mod for 'The Last of Us Part II' that was set to release soon was pulled right before launch after receiving a formal request from Sony asking for the mod not to be released.
Speclizer, the developer who had been creating the multiplayer mod for The Last of Us Part II, announced on X on the 13th that development on the project—which began in January—is being shut down in its final stages. He explained that he received a letter sent on behalf of Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) and will not release the mod.
The Last of Us Part II multiplayer mod gained attention for its high level of polish. Matches, which were initially limited to 1v1 and 2v2, had recently expanded to 4v4. It was also equipped with features such as matchmaking and faction-based team battles. Encouraged by positive player feedback, Speclizer had even planned to begin developing a co-op mode following the PvP release. However, this decision means the mod will no longer be released.
Monetization is being cited as a key factor behind the request to halt the project. Receiving financial support through Patreon, a paid subscription service, reportedly led to the project's shutdown. Indeed, attempting monetization is one of the primary reasons unofficial mods get blocked. While some note that the mod itself was meant to be free and Patreon was used as a platform for other projects, the exact reason cannot be confirmed as the contents of SIE's letter have not been made public.
There are many instances of IP holders blocking the distribution of derivative works due to rights infringement. However, disappointment remains as the mod addressed a long-standing desire among fans. Naughty Dog, developer of The Last of Us series, had previously been developing a multiplayer game set in the same universe titled 'The Last of Us Online'. That project was canceled in December 2023, with reports at the time stating it was around 80% complete when scrapped. Additionally, the remake title The Last of Us Part I, which was also released on PC, launched without including the well-received online mode from the original game, leading to further fan disappointment.
With official multiplayer failing to materialize due to unported modes and canceled development, and now the fan mod being shut down, fan frustration appears to be growing. Meanwhile, Speclizer stated he will pivot away from The Last of Us Part II toward a new project based on his own original IP.
