Following the monumental success of God of War Ragnarök, the gaming world has been holding its breath, eager for any glimpse into the next venture from the esteemed Sony Santa Monica Studio and its visionary director, Cory Barlog. Recent, albeit cryptic, updates from reliable sources shed a sliver of light on this highly anticipated project, even if most of the information still revolves around what it isn`t.
The Whispers from the Industry
The gaming rumor mill is a peculiar beast, often churning out more speculation than fact. However, when reporter Jason Schreier, known for his well-placed sources, speaks, the industry listens. Schreier recently offered a reassuring, if deliberately vague, affirmation: Cory Barlog`s next game, heralded as Sony Santa Monica`s “next big thing,” is reportedly progressing “well.” In the often-turbulent waters of AAA game development, where delays are as common as loading screens, “going well” is arguably the most coveted update a studio can offer, suggesting that the creative gears are meshing and production isn`t mired in any public developmental purgatory.
The Art of Elimination: What It Isn`t
Perhaps more intriguing than the confirmation of progress are the definitive debunkings of prevailing theories. For months, speculation has swirled, positing that Barlog was helming an entirely new intellectual property (IP). Schreier, however, has firmly stated this isn`t the case. “It`s not a new IP but it might feel like one,” he clarified, adding a paradoxical layer of intrigue. This statement opens the door to fascinating possibilities: a reimagining of an existing, dormant franchise? A radical departure within an established universe that makes it virtually unrecognizable? The vagueness, it seems, is a feature, not a bug, in this information trickle.
Further quelling common speculation, Schreier dismissed rumors of the project being sci-fi in nature as “nonsense.” This is particularly noteworthy given previous reports from 2021 that Sony Santa Monica was indeed working on an open-world sci-fi new IP, a project that was subsequently rumored to have been canceled. It seems the studio is steering clear of cosmic frontiers for now, opting perhaps for something more grounded, or at least less星际 (starry).
Adding another piece to this mosaic of non-information, forum user Ashhong, whom Schreier credits as knowing their subject matter, previously stated that Barlog`s new game is “not a licensed game.” This tidbit neatly eliminates any possibility of a tie-in to a movie, book, or comic franchise, reinforcing the idea that whatever this project is, it originates from a creative well within PlayStation`s own robust ecosystem.
The Studio`s Evolving Vision
Sony Santa Monica`s recent history speaks volumes about their approach to game development. Their decision to conclude the Norse saga of God of War with Ragnarök, rather than extending it into a trilogy, was a conscious effort to avoid “dragging out” the narrative. This demonstrates a studio committed to concise storytelling and impactful experiences over prolonged sagas—a refreshing stance in an industry often tempted by perpetual sequels and endless expansion packs. It suggests a focus on quality and narrative integrity over sheer quantity.
Post-Ragnarök, Barlog himself hinted at the studio`s diverse engagements, mentioning that Sony Santa Monica was “spread out on a lot of different things.” This suggests a multi-project strategy, a common ambition for large, successful studios aiming to diversify their portfolio and keep multiple creative teams engaged. While one project clearly holds the mantle of the “next big thing” under Barlog`s direction, the studio`s capacity for parallel development hints at a vibrant future beyond a single title.
Indeed, current job listings at Sony Santa Monica are openly seeking talent for a “new unannounced title.” While these listings are typically devoid of specific game details for obvious reasons—they`re hiring for skills, not for spoilers—they serve as tangible proof that the machinery of creation is fully operational, albeit under a veil of extreme secrecy. The collective gaming community, armed with a few key exclusions and a single positive progress report, continues its favorite pastime: imaginative speculation, fueled by the delightful agony of not knowing.
In the grand theater of video game announcements, Sony Santa Monica has mastered the art of the slow reveal, or perhaps, the art of the intriguing obfuscation. We know Barlog’s project is underway and proceeding favorably. We know what it isn’t: neither a completely fresh IP nor a sci-fi epic, nor a licensed adaptation. For now, the identity of their next masterpiece remains a delightfully complex puzzle, keeping us all on the edge of our seats. One thing is certain: when Santa Monica finally lifts the curtain, it will undoubtedly be worth the wait, no matter how much fun we have guessing in the interim.
Callum Darby