NetherRealm Studios offered eager Mortal Kombat fans a gory glimpse into the future of the famed franchise at this year’s Summer Game Fest.
The series’ next mainline installment, confusingly dubbed Mortal Kombat 1, harks back to the series’ origins, rebooting the roster and infusing the game with a shot of nostalgia. This isn’t just a case of turning back time, however; Mortal Kombat 1 is redefining the franchise’s gameplay mechanics while staying faithful to its infamous roots.
With the eminent Mortal Kombat co-creator, Ed Boon, present to guide us through the reveal, we were introduced to the 12th mainline installment in the franchise. Its robust line-up of classic fighters such as Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Liu Kang, Raiden, Kitana, Mileena, Johnny Cage, and Kenshi reaffirmed its homage to the franchise’s early days.
In a surprising twist, this back-to-basics approach brings us to Johnny Cage’s Hollywood home, grounding the narrative in the late ’80s/early ’90s, effectively revamping the overly convoluted story and cast of characters.
Among the showcased fatalities, decapitations, crushed skulls, broken bones, and those characteristically wet sounds that long-standing fans anticipate, the reveal highlighted an intriguing feature: Kameo Fighters. This innovative addition offers a roster of assist characters that can be called upon mid-match with a single button press. Kameo Fighters comprise a list of familiar figures in their earliest attires: Sonya Blade, Jax, Kano, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Goro, Kung Lao, Stryker, and even classic versions of characters from the main roster. While the full extent of the Mortal Kombat 1 roster remains unknown, it seems we can anticipate at least 16 Kameo Fighters.
As shown in the reveal, Mortal Kombat 1’s gameplay is as stunningly detailed and exuberantly violent as expected from the franchise. The game promises the same quick and gory combat, set in beautifully detailed environments, underpinned by an engaging rebooted universe narrative. This back-to-basics approach doesn’t mean we won’t see some modern surprises, however. Notably, our favorite movie star character, Johnny Cage, will be portrayed by none other than Jean-Claude Van Damme. Liu Kang, a series mainstay, is also revealed to possess godhood status, teasing potential narrative twists.
The incorporation of the Kameo system enhances the franchise’s gameplay, offering an additional assist character to fight alongside you. With Kameo Fighters being chosen during character selection and offering an extra layer of tactical depth to combat, the potential for varied combos and exciting gameplay grows exponentially. This deeper level of customization promises fresh gameplay dynamics and a distinct Mortal Kombat experience.
Mortal Kombat 1, announced last month, is the first new game since Mortal Kombat 11 in 2019.
Beyond the stunning graphics and engaging combat mechanics, hints of the game’s story suggest a parallel with themes from the recent Mortal Kombat movie, further deepening the connection between the franchise’s different media incarnations.
This long-awaited reboot is set to launch on September 19, 2023, for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows with cross-play and cross-save. Fans eager for a taste of the action can gain beta access in August via pre-order.
As we prepare ourselves for the fresh wave of bloodshed and bone-breaking fatalities, one thing is clear: Mortal Kombat 1 is bringing the franchise full circle, blending the nostalgia of its roots with the innovation of its future.
