Warner Bros. Acquires MultiVersus Developer Player First Games

Warner Bros. Games has announced the acquisition of Player First Games, the studio known for developing the popular fighting game MultiVersus. This move aligns with Warner Bros.’ new strategy focusing more on mobile, free-to-play, and live-service games. Co-founders Tony Huynh and Chris White will continue to lead Player First Games.

Huynh expressed excitement about joining Warner Bros. Games, stating, “We are working to make the MultiVersus game experience the best it can be and having our development team integrated with the publisher is optimum for the players.” The announcement of the acquisition coincides with the launch of MultiVersus Season 2, introducing new characters Samurai Jack and Beetlejuice, along with a ranked mode.

MultiVersus, which launched fully in May after a lengthy beta phase, has had a mixed development journey but has maintained a dedicated player base. The game features a diverse roster of Warner Bros. characters, including Bugs Bunny, Tom and Jerry, Superman, Joker, and many more.

Praise from Warner Bros. Games President

Warner Bros. Games president David Haddad praised Player First Games’ talent and creativity, adding them to a portfolio that includes other studios like NetherRealm Studios, TT Games, and Monolith Productions. Despite recent layoffs and challenges, Warner Bros. continues to invest in its live-service games, with MultiVersus being a key part of this strategy.

Shift Towards Mobile and Free-to-Play Games

Warner Bros. previously announced its intent to focus on mobile and free-to-play games, addressing the volatile AAA market. This strategic shift comes after disappointing sales of titles like Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League and the shutdown of the mobile game Mortal Kombat: Onslaught.