Some The Last of Us Part 2 multiplayer details have been revealed by a new job listing online. Naughty Dog posted the Multiplayer Server Programmer listing before the winter holidays. The listing includes a range of details regarding the upcoming game’s online multiplayer.
In the LinkedIn job posting (via DualShockers), Naughty Dog said it is looking for “a server programmer who loves constructing a scalable, stable, and secure ecosystem of services for players to enjoy.” The position will be responsible for working with design team members on improving and creating new multiplayer services, improving network systems, and managing server deployment after launch.
The ad also said the person “will usher [users] through the entire multiplayer experience, from first login, through matchmaking, and then granting rewards players can use to customize their characters in the store.” It appears that character customization is in for The Last of Us Part 2 multiplayer, as is some style of in-game store.
This isn’t the first time Naughty Dog have had customization in its multiplayer games ranging back to the Uncharted 2. Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End multiplayer featured a wide range of character customization options including skins, outfits, accessories, weapon skins, and taunts. The original The Last of Us also featured a multiplayer mode known as Factions, which had a smaller range of customization options.
An in-game store means just about anything at this point, although both The Last of Us and Uncharted 4 sold new weapons and other non-cosmetic via real-world money. These weapons could also be bought with in-game currency.
It’s unknown whether or not The Last of Us Part 2 multiplayer will use dedicated servers, as previous Naughty Dog games did not have them. The line “manage deployment of new servers and monitor operations after launch” might suggest a greater emphasis on multiplayer, and dedicated servers are coming to the game.
The Last of Us Part 2 has been in development at Naughty Dog for several years, and was revealed in late 2016 at PSX. The game is expected sometime in 2019 but not date has been confirmed.
