MultiVersus's impending shutdown in May, following the conclusion of Season 5, hasn't dampened the enthusiasm of its player base. A recent update dramatically increased combat speed, a long-requested change, leading to a resurgence in popularity and a social media campaign, #SaveMultiVersus.
The game's final season, launched February 4th, introduced Aquaman and Lola Bunny as the last playable characters. However, the significant gameplay overhaul overshadowed the bittersweet farewell. The faster pace, a marked departure from the slower, "floaty" gameplay criticized during the 2022 beta and even the 2024 relaunch, has been widely praised.
A Season 5 Combat Changes Preview video highlighted the speed increase, attributed in the patch notes to reduced hitpause on most attacks. Numerous characters, including Morty, LeBron, Iron Giant, and Bugs Bunny, received additional speed adjustments, particularly benefiting from faster fall speeds on certain aerial attacks. Character balance adjustments, such as Garnet's altered ringout potential, further enhance the improved gameplay.
The transformation of MultiVersus into a faster, more responsive game is a stark contrast to its previous iterations. This positive shift, however, is overshadowed by the looming shutdown on May 30th, ending seasonal content and online play, leaving only offline modes.
The timing of the significant gameplay improvements has fueled frustration and disbelief among players. Comments on social media and Reddit express a mixture of disappointment and astonishment. One Reddit user described MultiVersus as "the most interesting bad game in existence," highlighting its troubled launch, relaunch, and the late arrival of these crucial gameplay improvements. Professional player Mew2King questioned the timing of the speed increase. Another Reddit user lamented the missed opportunity, stating that a similar launch could have resulted in the game's long-term success, comparing it to the monetization of Apex Legends.
Despite the confirmed shutdown, many players believe the potential remains. One Reddit user stated that the Season 5 update resolved all their previous issues, praising the improved visuals and polish. This renewed appreciation has sparked a glimmer of hope for a potential reversal of the shutdown decision.
Despite the positive reception to the update, Player First and Warner Bros. remain committed to the shutdown. Real-money transactions were disabled on January 31st, and the Season 5 premium battle pass is now free. MultiVersus's final sunset is scheduled for 9 am PT on May 30th. While the community grieves the loss, they simultaneously celebrate the game's final, improved form, sharing memes and expressing their bittersweet feelings.
"This is what it feels like seeing everyone playing S5 #MultiVersus #SaveMultiVersus" [Image: Twitter post showing gameplay]
"genuinely cant rn" [Image: Reddit comment]
"Multiversus dropping good gameplay while on its death bed" [Image: Twitter post with meme]
