It is time! The most recognizable fighting franchise in the history of gaming is now getting a new major entry in the form of Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1).
Yes, even though the Mortal Kombat series began way back in 1992, the latest game holds the number “1” in the title. Why is that? Because it’s the universe “reborn.”
Mortal Kombat 1 introduces reimagined characters, new fatalities, new modes, and a whole new fighting system. One confirmed feature is the Kameo system, which allows fighters to call upon partners to assist them in battle.
The Plot
Ed Boon, co-creator of the series, went on Twitch and answered several questions regarding the timeline and the game’s new features. Evidently, MK1 is the “beginning of a universe” that is not a continuation of the events in Mortal Kombat 11, the previous game. This means that characters are being reintroduced in entirely new roles, complete with new relationships.
Despite this, the plot aligns with Mortal Kombat 11‘s conclusion, given that Raiden has to relinquish his godhood to Liu Kang. Once Shang Tsung tries to usurp Kronika in Aftermath, Liu Kang makes it his mission to create a new universe.
The Roster
The reveal trailer shows off several main fighters who are guaranteed to appear in the game. At the moment, the primary roster included in the base game is confirmed as follows:
- Liu Kang
- Scorpion
- Sub-Zero
- Raiden
- Kung Lao
- Kitana
- Mileena
- Shang Tsung
According to a leaked product listing from Amazon Italy, the first DLC, entitled Kombat Pack 1, includes six playable characters as well as five Kameo characters.
The six playable characters from the DLC include:
- Ermac
- Homelander
- Peacemaker
- Omni Man
- Takeda
- Quan Chi
The five Kameo characters from the DLC include:
- Ferra
- Khameleon
- Johnny Cage
- Mavado
- Tremor
Peacemaker and Homelander were always reported to appear in the game. Peacemaker is from DC Comics, plays a role in James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad, and also stars in the spin-off TV series airing on Max.
The Editions
Mortal Kombat 1 releases September 18, 2023, and is coming to digital and retail stores in three different editions. These include standard, premium, and Kollector’s editions.
- Standard ($70) – The base game with eligible pre-order bonuses.
- Premium ($110) – The base game, in addition to the Kombat Pack DLC, early access starting on September 14, and 1,250 Dragon Krystals.
- Kollector’s ($250) – The base game in addition to everything in the premium version. You also get a 16.5 sculpture of Liu Kang, art prints, a steel case, and 1,450 Dragon Krystals.
No matter which version you purchase, every pre-order comes with Shang Tsung as a bonus playable character, as well as beta access in August. Those who preorder the premium or Kollector’s edition will be getting early access to the game starting on September 14.