Steven Spielberg’s $607M Sci-Fi Sequel Officially Confirmed With The Avengers Writer 

Eight years after Steven Spielberg brought Ernest Cline’s pop-culture universe to life in Ready Player One, a cinematic return to the OASIS is officially moving forward. Screenwriter Zak Penn, who co-wrote the 2018 blockbuster alongside Cline and famously co-crafted the story for Marvel’s The Avengers, has confirmed that script work, stating, “I am working on it” on Ready Player Two is underway. (Via The Direct)

Spielberg’s original sci-fi epic grossed over $607 million worldwide, leaving fans eager for a follow-up adapting Cline’s 2020 sequel novel. Penn recently broke his silence to confirm his active involvement in shaping the screenplay, providing the most significant update on the long-gestating project in years and guaranteeing that Warner Bros. has not abandoned the franchise.

Author Ernest Cline Reveals Ready Player Two is in Early Script Phase

Ready Player One/ Credits: Warner Bros. Pictures

Speaking with The Direct, Zak Penn delivered a brief but crucial update regarding the project’s status, simply stating that he is working on it. While development on high-concept sci-fi properties often takes time, Penn’s involvement signals real creative continuity.

However, the upcoming sequel will see a major structural shift behind the camera. Steven Spielberg confirmed in early 2024 that while he remains deeply attached to Ready Player Two as an executive producer under Amblin Entertainment, he will not return to direct the follow-up himself (Via Showbiz411). This leaves the director’s chair open for a fresh visual stylist to tackle the expanded virtual boundaries of Cline’s sequel.

The author explained his plans on th active phase of the scripting, and mentioned:

It’s in the early stages right now, especially since Hollywood is in limbo right now. But I can tell from the experience of making the first movie that everybody had a lot of fun. We talked about the possibility of there being a ‘Ready Player Two’ when we were making ‘Ready Player One. (Via Inverse)

While Warner Bros. has not yet set an official theatrical release date for Ready Player Two, the project remains in early script development, pointing toward a potential release window in late 2027 or 2028. For fans wanting to revisit the original adventure before the next chapter arrives, Ready Player One is currently available to stream on Max, as well as for digital purchase and rental on major platforms including Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

As the production team builds out the screenplay, the prospect of stepping back into the OASIS promises a visual spectacle that honors Spielberg’s groundbreaking foundation while pushing modern virtual sci-fi into uncharted territory.

What are your thoughts on a Ready Player Two movie? Who should direct the sequel in place of Steven Spielberg? Let us know in the comments below!