The listing has fueled speculation that NetherRealm Studios is working on the third installment of its popular superhero fighting franchise, aligning with studio hiring patterns, parent company Warner Bros. Games’ Southern California headquarters, and recent comments from studio leadership regarding ongoing production cycles.
Good Gamer Group Playtest Listing Sparks Injustice 3 Speculation
The latest wave of speculation began when Good Gamer Group published recruitment details for an NDA-protected playtest scheduled for September 14 to 15 in Culver City, California, as reported by EventHubs and 3DMGame. The listing asked applicants to play an unannounced game on-site for four hours. According to 3DMGame, participants were required to rank in the top 25% in a major 2D fighting game. EventHubs noted that the listing used two specific descriptors, calling the project a “triple-A fighting game” in one instance and a “major 2D fighting game” in another. Because major competing fighting games currently in development lean toward smaller scopes or 3D formats, observers quickly focused on NetherRealm Studios. Furthermore, the Culver City location places the playtest in the same city where NetherRealm’s parent company, Warner Bros. Games, maintains its headquarters.
NetherRealm Development Cycles and Prior Clues
NetherRealm has maintained an active production schedule following the 2023 release of Mortal Kombat 1, according to studio statements cited by EventHubs. Studio head Ed Boon stated in May that the team is “actively pursuing another Mortal Kombat game” while “definitely doing more as well.” Public listings also show the studio has hired QA testers and designers throughout the year. The timing fits a potential four-year development gap, mirroring the interval between Mortal Kombat 11 and Mortal Kombat 1. Additional hints emerged earlier when two voice actors from the first two Injustice games suggested in 2025 that they were returning for Injustice 3 before walking back their comments, a pattern typical of accidental leaks. An artist’s online resume at Warner Bros. Games also featured Injustice 3 art in April.
Did you know? Mortal Kombat 11 was officially announced at The Game Awards, establishing a precedent that has led fans to watch major industry events for potential NetherRealm reveals.
Comparing Outlets on the Unannounced Playtest
| Reporting Outlet | Key Details Reported | Context Provided |
|---|---|---|
| EventHubs / Kotaku | Deleted Good Gamer Group listing, Culver City playtest location. | Matched studio hiring, voice actor comments, and WB Games headquarters. |
| 3DMGame | September 14–15 dates, four-hour on-site requirement, top 25% skill threshold. | Highlighted the strict AAA 2D criteria and Ed Boon’s recent social media clips. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Injustice 3 been officially announced?
No. NetherRealm Studios has not officially confirmed the existence or development of Injustice 3.
Where was the recent playtest held?
According to recruitment notices covered by 3DMGame and EventHubs, the playtest took place in Culver City, California, on September 14 and 15.
What criteria did playtest applicants need to meet?
Applicants were required to sign a non-disclosure agreement, complete a four-hour on-site session, and rank in the top 25% in a major 2D fighting game, as reported by 3DMGame.
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