multiversus screenshot of Velma, Batman, and Shaggy
Image via Player First Games

Does MultiVersus Have Local Multiplayer?

One major question in any modern multiplayer game is: Can I play it on the couch with my friends? This guide will break down the status of MultiVersus Local Multiplayer and whether the game has the feature at launch or not.

Recommended Videos

Local Multiplayer in MultiVersus Explained

While MultiVersus does offer local multiplayer, its implementation may leave some fans wanting more. MultiVersus supports local multiplayer for up to four players, but this option is restricted to a versus mode.

This means that players can only compete against each other in local matches, and there is no co-op play in Rifts or engaging in the more diverse PvP modes available. Therefore, the local multiplayer experience is limited to a bare-bones setup, focused solely on head-to-head battles among friends.

Screenshot by Siliconera

How Multiplayer works in MultiVersus

For those looking to play cooperatively or dive into the more intricate game modes like rifts or PvP online battles, you’ll need to be playing with an online friend. These modes offer robust co-op play, allowing players to team up or compete against other players globally. However, this limitation can be disappointing for those hoping to enjoy the in-person multiplayer experience of fighting games.

The restriction of local multiplayer to versus mode is particularly frustrating given the potential for a game like MultiVersus to provide a communal in-person gaming experience. Fighting games traditionally shine in couch play scenarios, where friends gather to compete in the same room. Unfortunately, by banishing local play to such a limited mode, MultiVersus misses out on delivering the full potential of its multiplayer capabilities in an offline setting.

Screenshot by Siliconera

This decision by the developers means that, as it stands, MultiVersus is not fully optimized for local multiplayer. For the best experience, players are encouraged to utilize the online features, which provide a more complete and engaging gameplay experience, albeit at the cost of the traditional in-person dynamic.

MultiVersus is currently free-to-play on PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC.


Siliconera is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy
Author
Image of Cory Dinkel
Cory Dinkel
Cory Dinkel is a freelance writer for Siliconera since 2023. An award-winning digital journalist, he has worked for local and national news outlets for nearly a decade. His favorite genre is the JRPG and he will not be taking questions during his "There is Not a Love Triangle in Final Fantasy VII" speech.