The Bloodborne-inspired action RPG, Lies of P, captivated players in 2023. Now, its sequel appears poised for a significant evolution with the introduction of multiplayer features. A recent job posting from developer Neowiz seeks game designers experienced in building multiplayer games, also hinting at the potential inclusion of instanced dungeons in Lies of P 2. This represents a considerable departure from the original game’s strictly single-player focus.
The original Lies of P, developed by Round8, was notably devoid of any multiplayer components, a rarity even within Neowiz’s publishing portfolio. This design choice was a deliberate one, as the developers aimed to solidify their reputation for crafting high-quality single-player console experiences. In a 2023 interview with GamesIndustry.biz, publishing director Wonmo Kim explained that while Neowiz had a strong track record with live service games, they were relatively new to the single-player console game arena. Lies of P served as a stepping stone to establish their capabilities in this space.
Multiplayer and Instance Dungeons: A New Direction
While PvP combat is a common feature in Soulslike games, exemplified by the invasion mechanic in FromSoftware’s Dark Souls series, instanced dungeons would be a novel addition to the Lies of P formula. While details are scarce, the job listing suggests a system akin to Bloodborne’s Chalice Dungeons. This could potentially allow players to team up and explore procedurally generated dungeons, battling unique bosses and uncovering hidden content. Such an addition could significantly enrich the multiplayer experience within the Soulslike genre.
Riding the Cooperative Wave
This news follows the recent reveal of Elden Ring: Nightreign at the 2024 Game Awards, a multiplayer-focused expansion that allows up to three players to tackle a reimagined Limgrave, complete with hordes of enemies, minibosses, and eight challenging bosses. While not a direct comparison, the enthusiastic response to Nightreign underscores players’ appetite for cooperative gameplay within the Soulslike genre. Lords of the Fallen (2023) also garnered praise for its multiplayer implementation, although it remained a relatively conventional approach where summoned companions function more like temporary allies than equal partners.
The Importance of Seamless Co-op
Hopefully, Lies of P 2 will learn from its predecessors and address the netcode issues that have often plagued Soulslike multiplayer, making it feel more like an afterthought than a core feature. A truly seamless cooperative experience with shared progression would be a significant improvement. Ideally, co-op should feel just as responsive and engaging as the solo experience. Players shouldn’t be forced to repeat boss fights or content when switching between solo and co-op sessions. The immense popularity of the seamless co-op mod for Elden Ring serves as a clear indicator of player preferences and a roadmap for developers.
In conclusion, Lies of P 2’s shift towards multiplayer, coupled with the potential for instanced dungeons, promises a fresh and exciting take on the Soulslike formula. By prioritizing seamless co-op and learning from the successes and shortcomings of previous titles, Round8 has the opportunity to deliver a truly compelling and innovative multiplayer experience.
