Outraged: Women Criticize Mark Zuckerberg for Ending VR Fitness Hit Supernatural

Mark Zuckerberg is facing backlash as a community of women rallies against Meta’s decision to cease updates for the popular VR fitness game, Supernatural. This game has garnered a passionate following, especially among older women and users with limited mobility, who rely on its engaging content to maintain their fitness. The discontinuation of Supernatural’s content has left its loyal players disheartened.

Overview of Supernatural

Supernatural, described as a blend of Peloton-style workouts with dance games like Just Dance, has captivated users with its immersive virtual environment. Players engage in rhythmic exercises that include boxing, dance routines, and meditation, all set to a diverse music library. The game fosters a supportive community atmosphere, making it especially appealing to individuals often marginalized in traditional fitness settings.

Community Response and Campaign for Revival

• Sherry Dickson, a 69-year-old retired teacher, has spearheaded a social media campaign to save Supernatural.
• The campaign has already garnered over 7,000 signatures on a Change.org petition.
• Many players express their distress on social media platforms; the Supernatural Facebook group has more than 110,000 members.

Players like Regina Lynn, who has spent five years working out with Supernatural, describe the decision to eliminate new content as a significant loss. She articulated her frustration, emphasizing how the community’s spirit has been crushed with this unexpected change.

Impact on Users

Supernatural users range from fitness enthusiasts to those facing physical challenges, yet all have found joy in its unique offerings. With its inclusive design, many users report that Supernatural has improved their mental and physical health profoundly.

Notable User Experiences

• Jennifer Boyer, who uses ankle-foot orthotics, shared that Supernatural’s adaptive exercises made workouts enjoyable.
• Vickie Bitter stated that the app is her sole reason for owning a VR headset.
• Participants in the community also cited benefits in overcoming depression and coping with serious health conditions.

Community’s Vision for the Future

The future of Supernatural remains uncertain. Players hope for increased visibility and support for their cause, with some advocating for the game’s potential independence from Meta. They envision a future where Supernatural’s creative team can thrive without corporate constraints, ideally on alternative platforms.

Next Steps for Supernatural

As they advocate for change, the community’s resolve remains strong. Dickson’s vision includes keeping the game operational while ensuring that its innovative spirit is preserved. Despite Meta’s recent statements about new features, fans express skepticism regarding the company’s dedication to the game’s future.

The community’s outcry reflects a profound bond formed not just through gameplay, but through personal stories of resilience, friendship, and transformation. The fight to save Supernatural continues, underscoring the enduring power of dedicated users in the face of corporate decisions. Whether it finds renewal or not, the impact of Supernatural on its players remains significant, fostering connections that transcend the virtual realm.