Media Molecule, the studio behind the LittleBigPlanet series, is reportedly developing a new social simulation game, drawing comparisons to popular titles like Animal Crossing and Harvest Moon. The project is said to be targeting a 2027 release, according to a report from MP1st.
Details regarding the gameplay remain scarce, but the game is expected to incorporate social-simulation mechanics that define titles in the genre. This follows a previous revelation from a Media Molecule employee indicating that the studio's next game would feature open-world content, sparking speculation about the studio's direction.
The developer's most recent title, Dreams, launched in early 2020. Despite its ambitious scope, Dreams did not achieve widespread commercial success. This new venture comes at a time when PlayStation has been making strategic investment decisions. The report notes that Media Molecule's upcoming project could be crucial for the studio's future, especially following recent industry shifts, including adjustments to Hideo Kojima's Physint and the closure of Bluepoint Games, as well as significant layoffs at Bungie.
Should Media Molecule's new social simulation game succeed, it could potentially replicate the appeal of Animal Crossing within the PlayStation ecosystem.