MultiVersus Shutdown Highlights Challenges of IP Crossover Games

The recent shutdown of MultiVersus, a platform fighter developed by Player First Games and published by Warner Bros., marks a significant moment in the ongoing challenges faced by crossover-based multiplayer games. Launched as a hopeful contender against the iconic Super Smash Bros., MultiVersus initially showed promise but ultimately failed to sustain its player base, leading to its closure about a year after its full relaunch in 2024.

Several factors contributed to MultiVersus’ decline. Monetization strategies post-launch alienated some players, and changes between the open beta and the final release affected gameplay satisfaction. However, a core issue lay in the game’s roster composition. Warner Bros. owns an extensive catalog of intellectual properties (IPs), and MultiVersus attempted to appeal broadly by including a mix of high-profile characters like Batman and LeBron James alongside lesser-known figures from franchises such as Gremlins and Adventure Time.

This broad approach diluted the game’s appeal to fighting game enthusiasts who expected a stronger focus on iconic characters. The absence of other major DC and Cartoon Network figures, such as various Flashes, Robins, or Ben 10, left a gap that might have attracted more dedicated fans. The roster’s unevenness highlighted a tension between appealing to casual players and satisfying hardcore fans.

Beyond roster issues, MultiVersus’ fate reflects a broader industry trend: the saturation of crossover IPs in multiplayer games. Once a rare and exciting novelty, crossovers have become commonplace, with studios like Warner Bros. and Disney frequently leveraging their vast IP portfolios to create attention-grabbing events. Examples abound, from Fortnite’s collaborations with Batman and Marvel to Mortal Kombat’s inclusion of horror icons and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles appearing in Call of Duty.

This flood of crossover content has paradoxically made such games less special, as the surprise and novelty that once defined these mashups have diminished. Players now often view the abundance of IP skins and characters as excessive, sometimes even detracting from the core gameplay experience. Activision’s recent decision to adopt a more restrained approach to crossovers in Call of Duty signals industry recognition of this fatigue.

Ultimately, MultiVersus became a casualty of Warner Bros.’ attempt to carve out a profitable niche in a crowded market. The acquisition and subsequent closure of Player First Games following the game’s shutdown underscore the risks developers face when navigating these high-stakes crossover projects. Yet, the appetite for crossover content remains strong, with upcoming collaborations like DC and Marvel characters sharing space after two decades and Netherrealm Studios likely incorporating new IPs in their next Injustice installment.

The story of MultiVersus serves as a cautionary tale about the limits of crossover bonanzas. While combining beloved characters from different universes can generate initial excitement, success depends on thoughtful roster curation, balanced monetization, and delivering a gameplay experience that resonates with both casual and hardcore players. As the industry continues to explore these mashups, studios must innovate beyond mere IP collisions to create lasting, engaging multiplayer experiences.