Warner Bros.'s platform fighter, MultiVersus, is gearing up for a comeback this year following the closure of its open beta in 2023. Set to launch officially in May, the game promises to continue its zany mash-up concept, potentially expanding its roster with characters, locations, and ideas from various Warner Bros. properties.

Embracing the mega-crossover concept popularized by Super Smash Bros., MultiVersus brings together characters from different franchises, creating intriguing matchups. The game's appeal lies in its diverse roster, allowing players to pit unlikely duos like LeBron James against Superman or Velma against Black Adam. While the character lineup is expected to grow, fans are eagerly anticipating additions such as Harry Potter and Samurai Jack.

Considering The Inclusion of The Last of Us Characters

The character roster of MultiVersus stands out for its eclectic mix of fighters, including real-life personalities like a basketball-wielding player alongside fictional characters like Arya Stark from Game of Thrones. This blend of thematic and narrative diversity adds a unique charm to the game.

With more characters slated to join MultiVersus, there's speculation that popular franchises like The Last of Us could make an appearance. Despite the franchise not being directly owned by Warner Bros., its ties to HBO could facilitate the inclusion of characters such as Ellie, Joel, or Abby, potentially drawing inspiration from the TV show adaptations. The game might also tailor each character's playstyle based on their in-game attributes, like Ellie's agility and ranged attacks or Abby's tank-like capabilities.

Balancing Tonal Consistency with Fan Expectations

While fans may be intrigued by the prospect of seeing The Last of Us characters in a different setting, the stark contrast in tone and themes between the two franchises poses a significant challenge. The somber, violent narrative of The Last of Us might not align well with the colorful, whimsical world of a brawler like MultiVersus, potentially leading to a jarring and insensitive portrayal.

Although there's no official confirmation of The Last of Us characters joining MultiVersus yet, the connection to Warner Bros. leaves the door open for such crossovers. The history of unexpected mash-ups in gaming, like Dead Space's Isaac Clarke appearing in Fortnite, suggests that brand recognition sometimes trumps tonal coherence. If incorporating Joel or Ellie can attract a wider player base to MultiVersus, the possibility of their inclusion remains on the table, regardless of thematic disparities.