MultiVersus Changes Resonate, #SaveMultiVersus Trends

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 change long-requested by the community, leading to a resurgence in popularity and a social media campaign, #SaveMultiVersus.

The final season, launched February 4th, introduced Aquaman and Lola Bunny as the last playable characters. However, the significant gameplay overhaul overshadowed the game's impending closure. The speed increase, detailed in a Season 5 Combat Changes Preview video, transforms the game's feel, addressing past criticisms of sluggish gameplay during the 2022 beta and last year's relaunch.

Patch notes attribute the speed boost to reduced hit pause on most attacks. Numerous characters, including Morty, LeBron, and Bugs Bunny, received additional speed adjustments, particularly concerning fast falls during aerial attacks. Character balancing is also evident, with Garnet's ringout potential adjusted.

This fundamental shift has revitalized MultiVersus, offering players a far more engaging experience than simply two new characters. The irony, however, is that this improved gameplay coincides with the game's imminent demise on May 30th. Seasonal content will cease, and the game will be removed from digital stores, leaving only offline modes.

The community's reaction is a mixture of shock and disappointment. Comments on social media and Reddit express frustration that these positive changes arrived too late. Professional player Mew2King questioned the timing of the speed increase. One Reddit user aptly described MultiVersus as "the most interesting bad game in existence," highlighting its troubled history and sudden improvement. Another Reddit user stated the update fixed "every issue" they had with the game, praising the enhanced polish. Despite the impending shutdown, hope remains that Warner Bros. might reverse course, given the game's newfound potential.

Despite player pleas and the #SaveMultiVersus campaign, Player First and Warner Bros. remain committed to the shutdown. Real-money transactions were disabled on January 31st, with the Season 5 premium battle pass offered free to all players. Game director Tony Huynh shared closing thoughts on social media, addressing player concerns. MultiVersus's servers will finally shut down at 9 am PT on May 30th.

The community's response is bittersweet. While mourning the game's end, they are simultaneously celebrating its improved gameplay, creating memes and sharing their final moments with the game they finally feel lived up to its potential. The situation underscores the unfortunate timing of a successful update for a game already slated for closure.

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