The Last of Us Part 2 Multiplayer Lives On as PvP Mod Due Out Later This Year
The Last of Us Part 2 multiplayer project may have been officially canceled by Naughty Dog, but fans of the Factions mode can still look forward to a new PvP experience — at least on PC. Modder Speclizer has been working on a PvP mod that allows players to go head-to-head as Abby, Ellie, and possibly other characters from the The Last of Us series. The project, which began development in January 2026, is expected to launch in September this year.
While the mod is still in its early stages and appears rough around the edges, it already shows promise. The gameplay footage highlights a functional matchmaking system, various maps, and loadout selections. Though it's not the same as what Naughty Dog may have originally planned for The Last of Us Online, it could serve as a satisfying alternative for fans eager to experience PvP combat with their favorite characters.
A Glimpse into the Mod's Development
Speclizer has been regularly updating their progress on X/Twitter, offering a look into the evolving PvP mod. One June 13 video showed school, Seattle, and gas station maps, while a May update demonstrated a 1v1 match in action. Other clips suggest that the modder is exploring the inclusion of additional characters like Dina and even costumes, such as Ellie's spacesuit.
As development continues, it's unclear what features will make it into the final version. However, for now, it looks like The Last of Us fans have something to look forward to in September. This PvP mod could provide a much-needed distraction for those who missed out on the canceled multiplayer project.
Naughty Dog canceled The Last of Us Online in late 2023, stating that the studio needed to focus on single-player games moving forward. The last major The Last of Us story, The Last of Us Part 2, launched nearly six years ago in June 2020. The upcoming Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet has yet to receive a release date.
At the time of the cancellation, Naughty Dog explained that the ambition of the multiplayer project was too large for the studio to handle while also developing single-player games. The decision meant that the studio would either have to become a live service games company or continue focusing on narrative-driven experiences that have defined its legacy.
While Speclizer's mod is a fan-made effort, it's possible that the PvP elements could be closer to what Naughty Dog had envisioned. Former Sony Interactive Entertainment executive Shuhei Yoshida praised the version of the game he was aware of, calling it "great." Meanwhile, Vinit Agarwal, who previously directed the multiplayer spin-off, noted that the project was nearly 80% complete before its cancellation.
