Smash Together, an unofficial dating app designed for Super Smash Bros. enthusiasts to connect and socialize, was set to launch its open beta on May 15. However, the app's developers announced on May 13 via a tweet featuring a sad Yoshi meme that they had received a cease-and-desist letter. The tweet simply stated, "We got cease and desisted," leaving fans disappointed and curious about the future of the app.
Although the developers did not specify who issued the cease-and-desist, many speculate that it was Nintendo, given the app's focus on their popular fighting game franchise. Smash Together had positioned itself as the "premium dating site for Super Smash Bros. enjoyers of all kinds," promising to help users find their "dream Doubles partner (in and out of Smash)" through a specialized matchmaking algorithm.
The app's unique features included sections for users to list their main character, notable wins, and Smash Bros.-themed prompts, such as "I'm looking for... Someone who can make it out of pools at a major." These elements were intended to help users connect with their ideal Smash Partner, blending traditional dating app functionalities with the vibrant community of Smash Bros. players.
The concept of a dating app centered around a video game, especially one as iconic as Super Smash Bros., likely raised concerns over intellectual property and copyright infringement, leading to the issuance of the cease-and-desist. It remains unclear whether the SmashTogether team will pivot to an alternative solution that does not rely on the Smash Bros. IP.
As of now, there has been no further communication from the SmashTogether team regarding their next steps. Fans and followers of the app are left waiting to see if there will be a way forward without the Smash Bros. theme, while appreciating the developers' restraint in avoiding any "smashing" puns in their announcements.
