Naughty Dog officially announced The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered recently for PS5, with new content like lost levels and a roguelike mode. It’s launching early next year, but some question whether a remaster is necessary. Others, like on Twitter, feel the developer should work on new titles instead of remastering old ones.

Jordan Middler, who hosts VGC’s podcast, reported, “From what I was told from one person, this was more of a project for new hires to get them in the game. Druckmann’s team is full steam ahead on an original. One doesn’t take away from the other as far as I know.”

It would make sense, especially with the Naughty Dog co-president (who directed The Last of Us Part 2) already confirming his new game is in the works. With the standalone multiplayer project for The Last of Us reportedly on hold (even though director Vinit Agarwal confirmed he’s still working on it), it would make sense to have another project to keep its teams busy. It can also familiarize newer developers with the workflow, process and engine.

The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered launches on January 19th, 2024. PS4 players who own the game can upgrade for $10.