Few media outlets cover the wide range of Warner Bros. properties. show in such a way that MultiVersus is doing. The game is full of crazy characters like Adventure Time‘s Finn and Jake, as well as Looney Tunes star Bugs Bunny, but Game of ThronesArya Stark is also in the game, representing the more mature side of WB media. Leaks and known plans suggest: MultiVersus only gets wilder, with Rick and Morty content is already dripping in. The inclusion of LeBron James is arguably the most important, given that he’s based on a real person, rather than one of WB’s purely fictional characters.
The LeBron James in MultiVersus is not exactly the same person as the real athlete as he is based on James’ role as the protagonist of Space Jam: A New Legacy. Nevertheless, it is mind-boggling to watch a real celebrity become playable in MultiVersus alongside some of the most iconic fictional characters WB has access to. Strange as this appearance is, it also presents a remarkable opportunity for Multiversus. While the game will likely continue to build its success on the backs of fictional characters, real-life fighters can be an entertaining way to diversify the character pool and MultiVersus further from competitors.
Why MultiVersus could use more lifelike inspiration
James’ addition to MultiVersus should be imitated because it’s just not something that AAA fighting games often do. There are plenty of logical reasons that fighting games don’t often feature real people – licensing a real person’s voice and appearance is probably a big task, for example. MultiVersus has somehow struck a deal with LeBron James for a major in-game role, even if James’ fighter is voiced by John Bentley rather than the real-life athlete. LeBron James makes the MultiVersus selection feels special by breaking down the cartoon and superhero dominated game with a surprising character concept.
Past MultiVersusroster, the appearance of LeBron James makes the game unique in the platform fighter space. MultiVersus is already working hard to differentiate itself through character perks, classes and emphasis on multiplayer, but comparisons to Super Smash Bros. and other members of the genre are still common. Real celebrities as player characters can be the extra feature that MultiVersus should really stand out from the crowd. Warner Bros. has the reach and resources to get more people into the game, so it should invest in this valuable potential feature of the roster.
Possible additions to MultiVersus
If Warner Bros. Interactive plans to deploy more real people MultiVersus, then Warner Bros. entertainment services are likely. Discovery, like HBO and Discovery Plus, are the best resources to turn to. For example, HBO has a variety of talk shows whose hosts can be a fun addition to the fighting game lineup. John Oliver from Last week tonight could inspire a great personality driven fighter similar to Velma Dinkley. A host of one of Discovery Plus’ many travel or cooking shows can also be a fun addition to Multiversus.
Historical fiction from these streaming services also seems to be a solid source of inspiration. Perhaps the best example is that of HBO Max Our flag means death, the very popular fictional story about the life of Stede Bonnet the Gentleman Pirate and his relationship with the infamous Blackbeard. Either Bonnet or Blackbeard would be a great addition to MultiVersus that draws on real life while stirring up hype for the show’s next season.
MultiVersus leaks have not indicated that any of these real people will be joining the game anytime soon, but based on how successful MultiVersus to date, Player First Games and Warner Bros. Interactive might be willing to take some risks. LeBron James is a smart addition to the roster and he deserves to pick up some potential real-world teammates.
MultiVersus is now available in open beta for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
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