Naughty Dog, the renowned game development studio, is back in the spotlight with its latest project, “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet.” As this marks the studio’s first new franchise in over a decade, expectations are high. However, recent reports have surfaced about the studio enforcing mandatory overtime to meet a milestone for Sony Interactive Entertainment.
Crunch Culture Resurfaces
Reports suggest that the overtime began in late October, with employees working an additional eight hours weekly, though not exceeding a total of 60 hours per week. Interestingly, the current demo being developed is not intended for player testing but for an internal check-in with Sony. This move has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the studio’s long-term plans for the game’s development, especially since the release is projected for mid-2027. Employees have also been asked to return to the office full-time during this period.
The Overtime Debate
The gaming industry, especially studios like Naughty Dog, has faced criticism for its crunch culture. The backlash from players has pressured studios to reconsider their work practices. While the overtime mandate recently ended for most of the team, it’s uncertain how the studio will proceed post-January 2026. There is hope for a more sustainable workflow, but skepticism remains about the studio’s commitment to lasting change.
Looking to the Future
As “Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet” moves forward in its development cycle, the industry will be watching closely to see if Naughty Dog adheres to promises of change. Crunch periods are often part of the game’s final polishing stages, but starting this process so early raises concerns. The gaming community will undoubtedly continue to hold studios accountable for their practices, especially when it impacts the well-being of their teams.
