Meta Gracefully Spins Off VR Fitness Game Supernatural Instead of Shutting It Down

Meta’s venture into the metaverse and its attempts to popularize VR faced significant challenges, with one standout success: Supernatural, a VR fitness game that turned workouts into a delightful experience. Users can rejoice at the news that Supernatural will not be shutting down after all.

In 2023, Meta confronted an eight-month antitrust lawsuit to acquire Within, the studio behind Supernatural. The deal was valued at approximately $400 million, alongside the hefty expenses of the FTC legal battle. However, just a few years later, Meta cut its VR workforce and announced plans to stop new content for the game.

Fortunately, Meta responded to the concerns raised by Supernatural users about the app’s uncertain future. Five months later, Meta has allowed the Supernatural team to evolve into an independent company named Supernatural Health, which will take over the app later this year.

“Supernatural is being reborn. Same coaches, same DNA, same commitment to making fitness the highlight of your day — now under a new, independent company we’re building from scratch,” states Supernatural Health on their website.

Who are the faces behind Supernatural Health? The original founders, of course.

It’s a bittersweet conclusion, but it’s also frustrating. It’s reminiscent of a high school student pouring their heart out to their crush in a grand prom-posal, navigating an awkward dinner with the crush’s parents to show genuine intent, only to part ways right after the dance.

“We’re grateful for the platform and resources Meta provided during a crucial growth period,” commented Supernatural Health. “This transition embodies a shared belief that Supernatural’s community will be best served by a committed, independent team. Meta has been supportive throughout this journey.”

I will remain bewildered by the absurdity of this situation, but at least I find solace in knowing one online community has evaded the grasp of big tech.

“Like many, I was devastated when the coaches were released and we learned that our beloved Supernatural, although excellent, would not improve. What we had would be all there was. Many of us felt it was acquired just to be stifled,” expressed one user in the public Supernatural Facebook group. “I’m such a softie. Why am I feeling emotional?”