The Warner Bros. platform fighting game, MultiVersus, is set to shut down at the end of Season 5 in May, yet a recent update has transformed its gameplay, sparking a #SaveMultiVersus movement on social media. The community eagerly embraced the fifth and final season, which launched on February 4 at 9am PT. Developer Player First Games had previously announced the game's closure, promising the addition of DC's Aquaman and Looney Toons' Lola Bunny as the last playable characters. However, the update brought more than just new characters; it introduced significant changes to combat speed, fulfilling long-standing player requests for a faster-paced experience. This shift marks a departure from the criticized "floaty" gameplay of the MultiVersus beta test in 2022 and even surpasses the speed seen at its relaunch in May of the previous year.
The Season 5 Combat Changes Preview video on X/Twitter showcased the increased combat speed, with characters now able to chain combos and move across the screen more rapidly. The patch notes for the Season 5 update detailed that the speed boost results from reduced hitpause across most attacks, allowing for quicker combo execution. Specific characters like Morty, LeBron, Iron Giant, Bugs Bunny, Black Adam, and others received additional speed adjustments, enhancing their fast fall capabilities during aerial attacks. Garnet's adjustments balanced her ringout potential, making her stronger on the ground but weaker in the air.
Despite the positive reception to these changes, the impending shutdown on May 30 looms large. MultiVersus will cease seasonal content updates and be removed from digital storefronts, with only offline modes remaining. The community's reaction is a mix of shock and frustration, as the game finally achieves the quality players desired just as it is set to end. X user @PJiggles_ described MultiVersus as "the most interesting bad game in existence," reflecting on its journey from beta to relaunch and now to its final update. Professional player Jason Zimmerman (Mew2King) questioned the timing of the speed increase, lamenting that such changes could have revitalized the game if implemented earlier.
Reddit users expressed similar sentiments, with Desperate_Method4032 stating that the Season 5 update resolved all their issues with the game, including improved shield animations, making it feel more polished. Despite the shutdown announcement, the potential shown in the update has led some to hope for a reversal of Warner Bros.' decision. However, Player First and Warner Bros. remain committed to their plan, with game director Tony Huynh sharing final thoughts and addressing player concerns on X. Real-money transactions were disabled as of January 31, and the Season 5 premium battle pass was made free for all players as a parting gift.
As MultiVersus approaches its final days, the community is finding solace in creating and sharing memes, celebrating the game's newfound quality even as it faces its end. The bittersweet moment encapsulates the fighting game community's experience with MultiVersus, a game that finally met expectations just before its closure.
