Invincible VS Embraces Tag Fighter Rivalry: Small Team, Big Ambitions for 2026

The tag fighting genre is roaring back to life, and Skybound Studios’ Invincible VS is charging into the fray with a refreshing perspective: competition breeds excellence, not conflict. At Evo 2025, the buzz around Quarter Up’s upcoming fighter was palpable, driven by a team of Killer Instinct veterans and a clear mission to honor both hardcore fans and newcomers. While giants like Riot’s 2XKO and Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls dominate headlines, this passionate 50-person studio sees the tag fighter resurgence as a rising tide lifting all boats. “We embrace the competition,” Art Director Dan Eder told us. “It’s healthy for the FGC. We love Marvel, admire Arc System Works… but we’re creating a wholly unique experience.”

How Does Invincible VS Stand Out in a Crowded Tag Fighter Market?

Quarter Up isn’t trying to dethrone rivals; they’re expanding the ecosystem. Eder draws a compelling parallel: “You can play an RPG, but that doesn’t mean you don’t want to play a different RPG later. Playing multiple tag fighters adds value.” Their strategy hinges on distinct mechanics and Skybound’s brutal, beloved Invincible IP. Recent gameplay reveals showcase fluid, combo-driven combat blending Mortal Kombat’s impact, Killer Instinct’s flair, and UMvC3’s team synergy. Crucially, they’re prioritizing accessibility without sacrificing depth – a new “Streamer Mode” disables gore, and players can choose between simplified one-button specials or traditional motion inputs. “We want it inviting for casual gamers but with depth for esports,” Eder emphasized.

Rapid Development, Meticulous Craft
Despite limited resources compared to giants like Riot, Quarter Up’s progress is startling. Since a pre-alpha showing just two months prior, they’ve added characters, refined UI, enhanced voiceovers, and polished animations – all targeting a solid 2026 release. This speed follows an intensive foundational phase. “We failed fast testing concepts,” Eder admitted. “Early art was wild. Once we built our dream team and pipeline, everything clicked.” The studio now operates with military precision: character creation, from concept to VFX, follows strict review passes ensuring visual fidelity meets brutal comic-book authenticity.

Balancing Accessibility With Competitive Depth

Appealing to both FGC veterans and franchise fans is a core challenge. Quarter Up actively courts community feedback, evidenced by their Evo 2025 broadcast with Maximilian Dood and hiring of FGC experts like Rip. The dual control scheme – simple inputs versus classic motions – exemplifies this dual focus. “We want their input,” Eder stated regarding pro players. “The FGC’s heavy involvement already shows our trajectory includes major events.” While a competitive circuit is planned, the immediate focus is perfecting core mechanics. Post-launch support is confirmed, including DLC characters and costumes inspired by the comics, show, and original designs.

Sustainability First, Legacy Next
Quarter Up’s ambitions extend beyond launch. We want the studio and game to be sustainable,” Eder stressed, highlighting fair team treatment and a healthy work environment. This philosophy fuels their 2026 roadmap: refine the core experience first, then expand. With Marvel Tokon and 2XKO also looming, Invincible VS carves its niche through passionate execution and respect for the genre’s roots.

Invincible VS arrives in 2026 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, proving that in the tag fighter renaissance, there’s room for gritty newcomers driven by heart and hardcore fighting DNA. Watch for character reveals and gameplay deep dives – this contender is just warming up.

Must Know

Q: What is the release date for Invincible VS?
A: Invincible VS is slated for a 2026 release across Windows, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. While no exact date is set, developer Quarter Up showcased significant progress at Evo 2025, indicating a steady path toward launch.

Q: Which characters are confirmed for Invincible VS?
A: While the full roster isn’t finalized, playable characters include Invincible (Mark Grayson), Omni-Man, and Atom Eve based on gameplay demos. More reveals are expected before the 2026 launch, potentially featuring allies and villains from the comics/show.

Q: Will Invincible VS have simplified controls?
A: Yes. Quarter Up confirmed dual control schemes: a “simple” mode mapping special moves to single buttons + directions, and a “traditional” mode using classic fighting game motion inputs. This caters to both newcomers and FGC veterans.

Q: Is there post-launch content planned?
A: Absolutely. Art Director Dan Eder confirmed plans for DLC characters and alternate costumes. These will draw from the Invincible comic series, TV adaptation, and include original designs.

Q: How does Invincible VS handle its violent source material?
A: A dedicated “Streamer Mode” will disable blood and gore during matches. This allows content creators to broadcast gameplay without platform restrictions while maintaining the core combat mechanics.

Q: Will Invincible VS have an esports focus?
A: Quarter Up aims to build a competitive scene. They’ve engaged FGC pros for feedback and plan tournaments post-launch. However, perfecting core gameplay ahead of the 2026 release remains the immediate priority.