Unlock the Ultimate Crossover: Exploring Cartoon Network's MultiVersus Universe

MultiVersus, a free-to-play platform fighter, made a big splash when it launched its open beta last year, supported by a strong marketing campaign. However, excitement for the game waned leading up to its current hiatus. With iconic characters like Bugs Bunny and Arya Stark from Warner Bros., MultiVersus initially attracted hundreds of thousands of players with its team-based gameplay inspired by Super Smash Bros. Although interest may have dwindled over time, there is still hope for MultiVersus to regain the spotlight when it fully launches in early 2024, if it can recapture its initial spark.

In the world of platform fighters, MultiVersus was part of a wave of new contenders, but the major players vying against Smash Bros. find themselves in a peculiar position compared to their inspiration. Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl, released just a year earlier in 2021, followed a similar trajectory to Warner Bros.' game, with the added challenge of a full retail price. Despite its current status, the Nickelodeon crossover performed adequately at launch, sparking rumors of an All-Star Brawl sequel. MultiVersus, with its untapped potential similar to that of its Nickelodeon counterpart, has a significant advantage it can capitalize on.

Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl Followed a Similar Path to MultiVersus

The developer of MultiVersus may have intentionally chosen to conclude its open beta in June alongside the end of the game's second season. However, prior to this, interest in the title had already been waning, as well as support from influential individuals. In the months following its initial release, MultiVersus experienced a drastic decline of over 99% in its player count. This decline clearly indicates that MultiVersus lacked something that Super Smash Bros. brings to the table. One simple fact is that Super Smash Bros. has a vast roster of iconic characters under a more cohesive brand, while the Warner Bros. ensemble of characters lacks the same level of unity.

On the other hand, Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl solely features prominent characters from its singular brand. However, the game's inability to sustain success can be attributed to an entirely different problem. Though seemingly minor, the absence of voice acting until a major patch in 2022 for All-Star Brawl may have been the primary hindrance for the game. When characters like Spongebob and Nigel Thornberry cannot even utter their famous lines in a significant crossover event, the impact of the entire experience is diminished. The game's unrefined visuals also played a part in its downfall, but a title like All-Star Brawl ultimately relies more heavily on its emotional resonance than on technical perfection. It possesses the characters but lacks the desired impact. Conversely, Multiversus exhibits a similar, albeit reversed, trend.

More Cartoon Network Characters Would Give MultiVersus a Cohesive Roster

If the sequel to All-Star Brawl can overcome the original's weaknesses, it could bring intense competition. However, MultiVersus has the potential to rival this success by utilizing one of Warner Bros. most iconic properties. Cartoon Network, with its extensive collection of beloved shows spanning many years, is a cherished television channel of its time. Competing directly with Nickelodeon, which also capitalizes on nostalgic classics like The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy, The Powerpuff Girls, and Ed, Edd n Eddy, MultiVersus has the opportunity to shine with a star-studded cast that complements its art style.

Both MultiVersus and All-Star Brawl have struggled to replicate the magic of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, but this is not an insurmountable challenge. Indie game Rivals of Aether, inspired by Melee, has garnered a dedicated fanbase despite the absence of well-known licensed characters. Additionally, Brawlhalla serves as a successful example of a free-to-play title in the genre. With the abundance of support for media featuring beloved Cartoon Network characters from the past, it is reasonable to believe that MultiVersus can make a triumphant comeback by fully utilizing Warner Bros' extensive library.

MultiVersus is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.