Summary
After extensive development following its Open Beta,MultiVersusmade its official debut on May 28. WithMultiVersusalready a smashing success on Steam, it seems to be off to a strong start. According to Steam’s concurrent player count, the title has already managed to pull in nearly 75% of the peak player count it saw during its combined Open Beta periods.
Despite concerns from some players about the length of time between the playtests and relaunch, Player First Games and Warner Bros. have demonstratedMultiVersus' staying power with a strong first season. While solid mechanics and cross-play are undoubtedly enticing for the community, the unique character roster is likely the main reason for the fighting game’s popularity. Most significantly, iconic DC characters such as The Joker and Harley Quinn should become a regular occurrence throughoutMultiVersus' lifespan.
MultiVersus' Character Roster Is Its Biggest Weapon
Warner Bros. Should Take Advantage Of Its Golden Goose
MultiVersusfollows in the footsteps of fighting games likeSuper Smash Bros., but it adds a unique twist by featuring personalities from Warner Bros. IPs. Currently,MultiVersus' cast of charactersincludes figures like Arya Stark, Finn the Human, and Rick Sanchez. Featuring such well-known names, it’s apparent thatMultiVersus' star-studded roster is its greatest asset.
For Season 1, appropriately titled “Puns & Villainy,” there appears to be an emphasis on villains throughout the battle pass. With iconic figures like The Joker and Harley Quinn taking center stage, it’s obvious that Warner Bros. should focus on DC villains in future seasons. Since 1934, DC’s superheroes and villains have held a consistent appeal for audiences, despite the superhero fatigue that has plagued the genre in recent years. In particular, Batman-related personas should be a gold mine forMultiVersus.
MultiVersus Should Focus on Batman’s Rogues Gallery
While iconic villains like the Clown Prince and Princess of Crime have already joined the fight,MultiVersus' roster has room for even more unique antagonists fromBatman’s vast Rogues Gallery. This could include the following characters and class concepts:
MultiVersus' different classesrange between five categories according to the official website: Assassin, Bruiser, Mage/Ranged, and Tank. As such, while the assigned classes might vary, these roles seem to appropriately match each villain’s personality. Of course, if implemented into the game in the future, it’s very possible that the characters could find themselves in a different role.
Furthermore, Batman villains offer a treasure trove of unique abilities that have the potential to shiftMultiVersus' current meta. For instance,characters like Mr. Freezecould wield devastating ice attacks and freeze techniques. Similarly, Deathstroke’s Godkiller swords would undoubtedly win over fans of the mercenary, whereas a back-breaking maneuver with Bane could quickly become a fan favorite.
MultiVersus Has Untapped Potential with Batman’s Anti-Heroes
Notably, characters who fall into the gray area between villains and heroes could prove to be some of the most intriguing additions toMultiVersus' ever-expanding roster. Catwoman and Red Hood, for example, offer intriguing possibilities with their anti-hero characteristics. Red Hood’s history as Robin, his brutal encounter with The Joker, and his embrace of lethal force make him a fascinating foil to Batman. Unlike his mentor, who adheres to a strict no-kill rule and relies on non-lethal tactics, Red Hood becomes a thought-provoking counterpoint, highlighting the complexities of their shared mission.
Additionally, althoughMultiVersushas a more lighthearted tonecompared to games likeGotham KnightsorBatman: Arkham Knight, which also feature Red Hood, it has become well-known for its quips and character voice lines. Red Hood could tap into this by playing up his trademark grudges, relentlessly expressing his anger towards The Joker and his perceived failures of Batman. This could add a unique edge to the game’s humor, blending his dark backstory with the playful banter thatMultiVersusis known for.
MultiVersus
WHERE TO PLAY
CHARACTERS: Choose from Bugs Bunny, Batman, Arya Stark, Rick Sanchez, and many more. In MultiVersus, every star brings their unique moves, worlds and attitudes to fight. And as the roster expands, so does the spectacle — with new personalities and play styles turning up the heat in every battle.MAPS: Our maps turn legendary realms like the Batman’s Bat Cave, Jake and Finn’s Treefort, Game of Thrones’ Throne Room into epic battle grounds. And the best part? We’re adding new maps regularly, so the party never stops!MODES: Whether you’re seeking the intensity of 1v1, the frenzy of a 4-player mayhem, or team up for strategic 2v2 battles, we’ve got you covered. Plus, introducing an all new PvE mode, a thrilling realm of limitless combat possibilities designed for solo or co-op play.CROSS-PLATFORM: MultiVersus has full cross-play and cross-progression support across all platforms.