Killer Instinct is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a big update and a new Anniversary Edition. The fighting game will split into a free-to-play base game available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X and S, PC, and Steam, and a $29.99 Anniversary Edition that includes all fighters and premium content. With the update, the Definitive Edition will be replaced and owners will automatically upgrade to the Anniversary Edition at no extra cost.

The update brings a significant balance update from Iron Galaxy, which follows the last major patch in 2018. The aim is to address character balance, focusing on reducing frustration caused by top-tier characters while bolstering underperforming ones, without majorly altering playstyles. Changes include Jago's walk speed and attack power, Glacius' Combo Breaker advantage, Thunder's Sammamish follow-up windows, and adjustments to Sadira, Orchid, Spinal, Fulgore, and many others to fine-tune competitive play.

Specific adjustments affect individual character moves, enhance certain abilities while reducing the potency of others, and generally strive to make matchups fairer. Those who enjoy Killer Instinct's competitive scene can look forward to an updated environment for high-level play. The precise release date for the update is pending final testing, with a focus on quality.

Fans can expect to no longer purchase individual fighters or different editions moving forward, as the Anniversary Edition will be the new comprehensive package. However, any content players previously bought will remain accessible. Microsoft's announcement of the update emphasizes that this is an opportunity to reinvigorate Killer Instinct's competitive scene and give thanks to its dedicated community. The full patch notes detailing the adjustments can be found on the official Killer Instinct forums.