Meta mercifully spun out VR fitness game Supernatural instead of just killing it

In a surprising turn of events, the VR fitness game Supernatural has secured a new lease on life as it transitions to an independent company. Originally part of Meta's ambitious metaverse project, Supernatural stood out as a beacon of success amidst a generally disappointing venture into virtual reality. After Meta's acquisition of Within, the studio behind Supernatural, for approximately $400 million in 2023, the future of the game seemed uncertain. Despite the initial enthusiasm, Meta faced significant challenges, including an eight-month antitrust battle and subsequent layoffs within its VR division. Just a few years after its promising inception, the company announced it would cease content updates for the app, leading many to fear for its survival. However, after listening to its dedicated user base, who voiced their concerns about the app's future, Meta has allowed the Supernatural team to establish Supernatural Health, an independent entity that will take over the app later this year. The company expressed its commitment to continue delivering the same engaging fitness experience that users have come to love, emphasizing that the core team and their vision remain intact. Supernatural Health stated, “Supernatural is being reborn. Same coaches, same DNA, same obsession with making fitness feel like the best part of your day — now under a new, independent company we’re starting from the ground up.” This announcement has been met with excitement and relief from the community, who feared the app would be left to languish. One user encapsulated the sentiment of many, reflecting on the uncertainty surrounding Supernatural's future and expressing gratitude for the new direction: “Like so many of us, I was devastated when the coaches were let go. We all felt like it was purchased to kill.” The transition to independence marks a hopeful new chapter for Supernatural and its devoted followers, who can now anticipate continued growth and innovation. As Supernatural Health prepares to take the reins, the community watches closely, hopeful for a bright future free from the complexities of big tech involvement.