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It feels weird to be reviewing this game in 2024, after having my fill in 2022. Warner Bros’ MultiVersus basically had a full launch already – a full suite of purchasable characters and cosmetics, decent online play, and a small but reasonably excitable community. New characters and stages were being announced and launched regularly! And then it all just stopped as MultiVersus was taken offline entirely, leaving players with nothing, until now.
After being taken offline for just shy of a year and having the engine switched from Unreal 4 to 5, MultiVersus is back and nobody is quite sure why it is worse. There’s no question about it, the game is visibly slower and far less responsive. While you could adjust the input buffer you desire in the beta version of the game, now you’re stuck with a 30-frame input buffer – I repeat, the game will execute any button input you press for a full half second. Double-tapped that attack button in excitement? You’re gonna be executing two attacks, whether you like it or not. Same for jumping, or moving, or dodging, or…
In most fighting games, and indeed platform fighters, players utilize the input buffer to execute frame-perfect strings; here it feels more like you’re attacking phantoms that were present half a second ago. It’s too late, the moment’s over, but you’re still swinging and missing. Sure, it adds to the chaos, but instead of feeling like I’ve won a hard-fought victory or had the rug swept from under me, I always feel like it was a coin toss. Everyone jumped in and pressed buttons, whatever happened from that point is a mystery.
But, a point in MultiVersus’ favor, is that it includes 26 genuinely recognizable characters – PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale wishes it could be this – from Batman and Superman to Tom and Jerry, Jason, LeBron James, Arya Stark, and more. Like, a lot more. Other than the original character of Reindog, this is an all-star lineup, and you’re pretty much guaranteed to see at least one character you like. Sure, you hate both Rick and Morty, but do you hate Bugs Bunny? I know you love Taz.
The stages even take from franchises beyond the characters included in the main roster, with one stage having you battle atop The Powerpuff Girls’ Townsville Town Hall as Mojo Jojo attacks. It’s pure “I remember that!” fuel, and when it comes to a big crossover fighter like this, that’s the goal.
I think it would all work out, too, if the core gameplay didn’t feel broken right now. Maybe it was just part of the struggle of moving the game to a new engine, or maybe these changes are being implemented because of feedback – either way, it feels bad. The slow speed of the animations and movement, combined with the massive input buffer make MultiVersus feel like the floatiest and least precise platform fighter I’ve ever played, and it wasn’t this way during the beta.
I don’t know what made Warner Bros. take MultiVersus off the market and throw it back into the oven, but it doesn’t seem to have meaningfully improved anything. Players argue that it’s now more difficult to earn new characters, with never-ending progression paths.
It’s a game that looks nice visually, and you can get matchmade with opponents incredibly fast, but that can’t save it from feeling like a tedious grind: if you don’t want to play online, you’ll be playing in Rifts, which are long strings of fights against AI opponents – more fights than the game has characters, in every available Rift. You can unlock The Matrix’s Agent Smith early by completing Rifts, but even that couldn’t convince to invest the hours into repetitive AI combat.
This doesn’t feel like a game you can reasonably “get good” at anymore, it just feels like a mess. Win, lose, it doesn’t matter. Perhaps younger gamers can forgive the gameplay quirks in exchange for seeing characters they love duke it out, but that alone is not what made Super Smash Bros. a sensation. MultiVersus’ online net code is great, which should be a massive selling point, but why would you want to play this game? Over all of the other platform fighters or even the fighting game genre at large, why choose MultiVersus?
For now, I’m leaving this as a review in progress, as I have some hope that the outcries from fans on Twitter, YouTube, and Steam forums will have Player First Games issue some much-needed fixes in the upcoming weeks and months, but if this really is the game MultiVersus is supposed to be, it’s dead on arrival.
Platform tested: PS5
DAVE AUBREY
GLHF Deputy Editor. Nintendo fan. Rapper. Pretty good at video games.
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College Football 26: Best Defensive Playbooks
A great offense wins games, but a well-rounded and strategic defense wins championships—even in College Football 26. Whether you’re playing Dynasty mode, competing online, or just trying to stop your friend from running up the score, having the right defensive playbook can turn the tide in any game. We’ve reviewed insights from many different outlets to bring you a detailed guide to the best defensive playbooks in College Football 26. From schemes that dominate against the pass to versatile setups that can handle everything, these playbooks will give you the upper hand on the virtual field. 1. 3-4 Defensive Playbook: Versatility In College Football 26 The 3-4 playbook remains a timeless classic for a reason; it’s one of the most balanced and flexible defensive setups in College Football 26. Utilizing three defensive linemen and four linebackers, the 3-4 allows for maximum adaptability, whether you need to stop the run or drop back into pass coverage. This playbook particularly shines in its Nickel formations, with standout options like 3-3 Mint and 2-4 Double Mug, perfect for adding some heat to your defense. The ability to disguise coverage while dialing up blitzes creates endless opportunities for turnovers and stops. Why It’s Great: Strong against both run and pass plays Multiple coverage looks allow for strategic setups Excellent for confusing offenses with disguised pressures Use This If: You enjoy controlling the middle linebacker and making pre-snap adjustments You face opponents with well-rounded offensive schemes 2. 3-2-6 Defensive Playbook: The Pass Defender’s Dream If your opponent loves to throw deep or run pass-heavy plays, the 3-2-6 playbook is your best friend. This setup, built around three linemen, two linebackers, and six defensive backs, is designed to smother passing offenses. Its hallmark formation, 3-2-6 Odd, emphasizes coverage and minimizes the chances of big plays. While it sacrifices run-stopping power, the speed and versatility of the defensive backs make this playbook a nightmare for quarterbacks trying to find open receivers. Blitz packages like Fire Zone 3 from the Nickel formation provide just enough pressure to make life difficult for the offense. Why It’s Great: Maximizes pass coverage with six defensive backs Great for countering deep-ball threats Allows for creative pre-snap motions and disguises Use This If: You face pass-heavy offenses or opponents who avoid the run game You’re confident in defending quick passes and screens with adjustment 3. 4-2-5 Defensive Playbook: The Balanced Approach For those who value both run-stopping ability and pass coverage, the 4-2-5 playbook strikes the perfect balance. With four down linemen, two linebackers, and five defensive backs, this setup excels in defending the run without sacrificing coverage depth. The 4-2-5 has built-in flexibility, allowing one of the safeties to join the pass rush or drop back into coverage. This playbook thrives in situations where the opponent has a balanced offense, keeping you from overcommitting to either defending the run or the pass. Why It’s Great: Combines solid run defense with flexible zone and man coverage options Ideal for shutting down quick-developing plays Provides various pre-snap looks to confuse offenses Use This If: You face versatile offenses that mix run and pass plays evenly You prefer creating pressure while maintaining a safety net of coverage 4. 3-3-5 Defensive Playbook: Flexibility and Pressure The 3-3-5 playbook is all about giving you options in College Football 26. Whether you’re dropping into coverage with five defensive backs or sending creative, unpredictable blitzes, this defensive playbook has what you need. With three down linemen and three linebackers, the emphasis here is on versatility. Popular formations like 3-3-5 Split and Three High Odd give you unique ways to attack the offense. Blitzing from the linebackers, shifting defensive backs into new zones, or stacking the line to pressure the QB all become effective weapons in your arsenal. The depth of options makes this playbook one of the most respected for advanced players. Why It’s Great: Offers pressure-friendly formations and blitz options Balanced enough to handle a variety of game situations Allows you to mix up your defense and stay unpredictable Use This If: You love experimenting with unconventional formations You want the ability to adapt to multiple offensive playstyles 5. 4-3 Defensive Playbook: Old-School Dominance Some things never go out of style, and the 4-3 defense is one of them. This defensive playbook in College Football 26 thrives on its simplicity and effectiveness. Built around four linemen and three linebackers, the 4-3 excels in run-stopping while creating natural pressure on the quarterback. The standout feature of this playbook is its ability to consistently lock down both inside and outside runs while still maintaining solid pass coverage. If you’re someone who prefers controlling the trenches, the 4-3 is a reliable choice to stuff runners and force offenses into passing situations. Why It’s Great: Dominates against the run Simple yet effective coverage schemes Provides built-in pressure without sacrificing coverage Use This If: You want a straightforward, no-frills defense You favor controlling the line of scrimmage Honorable Mentions While the top five playbooks cover most bases, there are a few honorable mentions worth exploring: Nickel 3-3 Mint Blitz Packages (Great situational tool for any playbook) Hybrid Playbooks with Combination Formations (Leverage the best of every world if you enjoy customizing) Final Thoughts Mastering defense in College Football 26 is all about tailoring your strategy to shut down your opponent’s strengths while exploiting their weaknesses. Whether you’re using the 3-4’s adaptability, the 3-2-6’s airtight pass coverage, or the 4-2-5’s streamlined balance, these playbooks provide the foundation for consistent defensive success. Try experimenting with each playbook to find the one that complements your playstyle. Once you’ve mastered the nuances of your chosen setup, those big third-down stops and crucial turnovers will come naturally.
New report suggests Christian Wilkins release related to 'incident' with teammate
There may be more to Christian Wilkins’ recent surprise release from the Las Vegas Raiders. NFL reporter Josina Anderson reported Saturday that "some sources believe an incident involving a teammate may have factored in-part into the Raiders' fatigue and release" of Wilkins. The nature of the incident is not clear. However, many believe the Raiders had a very good reason to move on from Wilkins considering the money they had invested in him. It also suggests the Raiders saw no alternative if they went straight to a release. Wilkins was dumped by the Raiders just one year into a four-year, $110 million deal. The Raiders suggested Wilkins failed to take rehab seriously as he tries to work his way back from a foot injury. Other teams do not appear to have the same concerns about Wilkins as the Raiders did, and he should find a new landing spot fairly easily. That is one of the reasons some suspect there is more to the Raiders’ decision than they are publicly saying.
Vikings training camp recap, Day 4: J.J. McCarthy puts on a show for fans
For the first time this year, Vikings fans filled the bleachers at TCO Performance Center on Saturday afternoon. Those who braved the heat and came out to watch their favorite team practice were treated to a show by the 22-year-old quarterback who holds so much of the franchise's future on his shoulders. On the fourth day of training camp (and the third full-speed practice), J.J. McCarthy had easily his best day of work thus far. The highlight was a deep ball to Jordan Addison late in the practice, which drew cheers from the crowd and a celebration from McCarthy. He got the look he wanted and let it rip, hitting Addison in stride over the top of the second-team defense for a 60-yard touchdown. McCarthy had previously cut it loose on a deep ball, with the first one coming when he got the defense to jump offside and had a free play to work with. That one was also placed well roughly 55 yards downfield, but Byron Murphy Jr. was running stride for stride with Jalen Nailor and made a great play to knock the ball down. After the first one wasn't completed, it had to feel good for McCarthy to connect with Addison on that second deep attempt. Earlier, in a 7-on-7 red zone period, McCarthy went 3 for 5 with a trio of touchdowns. To start, he hit Aaron Jones for a score in the flat. After getting into the end zone, Jones clapped his hands over his head to lead the fans in a SKOL chant. McCarthy led Jalen Nailor a bit too far on his second attempt, but the third was a touchdown to Nailor towards the same left sideline. The fourth was a somewhat catchable ball that a leaping Nailor couldn't come down with over the middle. And to cap off the period, McCarthy rifled one to T.J. Hockenson for a score. Another thing we saw from McCarthy, which is important, was the ability to layer the ball over the first level of the defense with touch. There's no question about his ability to throw a fastball, but the offspeed pitch, so to speak, is something he's been focusing on this offseason. He connected with Nailor on a layered throw to the sideline early in the session. McCarthy also hit Hockenson on a nice layered, anticipatory throw over the middle at one point. To be clear, it wasn't a perfect day for the Vikings' young quarterback. He missed a few throws here and there and had a couple plays where he would've been sacked before getting to the read he wanted. Still, I think anyone who was in attendance would tell you it was an encouraging performance on a very hot late-July day. He commanded the huddle, showed off his arm talent, and didn't throw a single interception. Now he'll look to build off that momentum when pads come on for the first time on Monday. Here are some other things I saw at practice on Saturday. Jonathan Greenard is a monster. After making the Pro Bowl last year with 12 sacks, 80 pressures, 18 TFLs, and 4 forced fumbles, Greenard looks to be in line for another big season. I counted at least two would-be sacks and two TFLs against the run over the course of this practice. There was one sequence where he set the edge for a run stop and then burst into the backfield for a sack on consecutive plays. He did it both against the second-team offense and the starters (who are admittedly without Christian Darrisaw). The additions of Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave in the middle should only help Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel continue to dominate. With no Justin Jefferson, the Vikings are using a variety of different receivers as the WR3 alongside Addison and Nailor with the first-team offense. Today, the guy who got the majority of those looks was Lucky Jackson, a practice squad guy now in his third year in Minnesota. Jackson caught a couple balls from McCarthy in a move-the-ball period late in the practice, including a 20-yard chunk gain. He could be a sleeper to make the roster as a depth option. Three members of the Vikings' starting secondary didn't appear to be participating in team periods. Josh Metellus, whose contract extension was announced earlier on Saturday, is dealing with a minor ankle injury and is expected to be back out there on Monday. I didn't see Harrison Smith or Isaiah Rodgers in action, either. That meant the starting safeties were Theo Jackson and Jay Ward, while Mekhi Blackmon joined Jeff Okudah and Murphy at corner on the first-team defense. Backup quarterback Sam Howell has had a fairly shaky start to camp, but he did look a little better today. After his first attempt of the day was swatted by Van Ginkel on a rollout, Howell put together a handful of solid throws. He connected with Jeshaun Jones and Tim Jones for touchdowns in the red zone 7-on-7 period. Jeshaun Jones was Howell's favorite target on the day. He also had a quality completion to rookie Tai Felton later on against the starting defense, then got sacked by Allen and Van Ginkel on the ensuing play. The Vikings will want to see progress from Howell, but he doesn't appear to be in jeopardy of losing his QB2 role to Brett Rypien or Max Brosmer. Speaking of Brosmer, the rookie QB got some good opportunities in this practice, which was the longest of camp so far. He connected with Ben Yurosek in red zone 7s and had a few completions in 11s to end the day, including a nice throw to Dontae Fleming on the final play from scrimmage of the practice. Saturday's session wrapped up with the first kicking work we've seen in camp. Will Reichard, the lone kicker on the roster, went 5 for 6 on a day where there was a bit of wind. He hit from 33, 40, 45, 50, and 54 yards out. His lone miss went narrowly wide left from 48. Reichard's leg power remains something to behold. After an off day Sunday, we'll be back in Eagan on Monday for the first padded practice of camp. Vikings news, rumors, analysis
Two Teams Linked to a Trade with Bruins for Pavel Zacha
The Boston Bruins are gauging trade interest in forward Pavel Zacha, according to The Fourth Period. Following a down season and a trade deadline where Zacha’s name was thrown around but was ultimately not moved, Bruins GM Don Sweeney is trying to move the 27-year-old Czech center. Zacha is playing in the final season of a contract that has a $4.75 million cap hit. Zacha, acquired from the New Jersey Devils in 2022 for Erik Haula, has been a solid pickup for Boston. He posted 21 goals and 57 points in 78 games in 2023-24, though his production dipped slightly to 47 points over a full 82-game slate last season. He can play up and down the lineup and has a strong two-way game. Who Has Shown Interest in a Zacha Trade? Two teams reportedly monitoring Zacha are the Vancouver Canucks and the Utah Hockey Club. Both teams are seeking top-six forward depth and would value Zacha’s steady offensive contributions. The Canucks have been busy all summer, signing and trading players. They have also been linked to Jack Roslovic talks in free agency, meaning they wouldn’t be adding both. Utah has been looking to make a splash this season and work their way up the standings in an attempt to compete for the playoffs. The Bruins would likely demand a notable return, but neither team is looking to send players back. The trade would likely involve a high pick or a mid-tier prospect. Zacha controls part of the process with an eight-team no-trade list. He’s owed just $3.75 million in actual salary each of the next two seasons, further boosting his trade appeal.
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