ThoughMultiVersuspools its roster of playable characters from across Warner Bros.' extensive library of films, shows, and cartoons, theAnimaniacshave been missing since the game’s launch despite being an iconic part of the Warner Bros.' brand.MultiVersuscontinues to expand its range of playable characters, regularly adding fighters from all corners of Warner Bros., likeRick Sanchez ofRick and Mortyfame. Given how popular the show has become among audiences - and how Rick’s skins had been leaked earlier this year - it didn’t surprise fans that he was being added to the game.
But from the current lists of popular cartoon characters both modern and classic, theAnimaniacsare likely one of Warner Bros.' most emblematic trios and arguably a parallel to the likes of Disney’s Mickey Mouse. Based on the same 1930s designs of simple, black-and-white characters,Animaniacsserve as a tie for Warner Bros. to a much older generation of entertainment that doesn’t have that much representation withinMultiVersus. Their inclusion inMultiVersuswould not only be an homage to the history of entertainment across the decades but an embrace of the 2020Animaniacsrevival for an added boost of cultural relevancy.
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The Classic Animaniacs and Their Revival
As the creation of Steven Spielberg and Tom Ruegger,Animaniacswas the pair’s next step following the success ofTiny Toon Adventuresand was a departure from reusing existing characters and instead developing an altogether new concept.Animaniacswas best described by those who worked on it as a sketch comedy, with each episode comprised ofthree segments tied together by the threeAnimaniacs: Yakko, Wakko, and Dot.Animaniacsdidn’t concern itself with story threads and instead allowed its trio to be free to do whatever they like with the same wacky, tongue-in-cheek humor.
As a product of its time,Animaniacstruly was a variety show full of sketches, musical numbers, and parodies that ensured across its many episodes there was surely something for everyone. The show was hugely successful and popular, earning critical acclaim and various award and nominations over the years. Even recently,the prominence ofAnimaniacscontinues to thrivevia memes such as Nations of the World performed by Yakko.
This is likely why the show was revived in 2020 after the original show was added to Netflix in 2016 and proved it was still popular among audiences. Even Spielberg had a hand in its revival by insisting that theAnimaniacs’original cast reprise their roles, including bringing back series composers with a small orchestra. Those responsible for its return knew full well the cultural significance and entertainment valueAnimaniacsstill had, making it all the more important it was brought back after close to two decades off the air. Now that it is back, fans are anticipating the third season after a successful second in 2021.
The Animaniacs in MultiVersus
With their legacy in pop culture outlined, it seems strange that Warner Bros. would not be insisting that Yakko, Wakko, and Dot make their way intoMultiVersus. Though the trio has had their fair share of video games in the past, they haven’t graced the gaming industry since 2005. It’s therefore long overdue that, after a return to television,theAnimaniacsreturn to the gaming scene, andMultiVersuswould be the ideal place to start. Not only would it be a neutral ground to test outAnimaniacsin gaming again, but it also adds a classical touch toMultiVersusthat taps into the revival’s popularity.
The first challenge would be to decide if Yakko, Wakko, and Dot will each be their own fighter, or if they’ll take after the likes of Tom & Jerry and work together. The latter seems more likely, but while this presents the challenge of condensing three characters into one, it’s not impossible. For example, Player First Games could look toSuper Smash Bros.' Pokemon Trainerand introduce a swap-in mechanic. Beyond this initial hurdle, coming up with moves and abilities is straightforward, asAnimaniacs’already goofy style justifies any equally wacky attacks.
MultiVersusis available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
