Warner Bros. Games has come sweeping in with the next generation of their Mortal Kombat game, and we are all here for it. They officially announced Mortal Kombat 1 and dropped its first trailer on 18th May.
The game shows a revitalized world led by the Fire God Liu Kang, which features returning characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Raiden, and others. These characters have evolved quite a bit thanks to the graphical improvements and storyline changes.
However, one thing that remains consistent is Mortal Kombat's commitment to delivering intense battles filled with bloodshed and brutal fatalities. As a result, Mortal Kombat 1 has become one of the most highly anticipated games in 2023. It promises a new fighting system and iconic characters with unique backstories, rivalries, and exciting new features.
So, read on for critical details regarding Mortal Kombat 1.
What is The Release Date for Mortal Kombat 1?
Mortal Kombat 1 is scheduled to release on September 19, 2023. This is an excitingly short timeline since the game was only announced in mid-May 2023.
There's good news if you're eager to jump into the action early. NetherRealm Studios has announced that an early access period for Mortal Kombat 1 will commence on September 14. It will exclusively be for those who purchase the Premium or Kollector's Edition of the game. A closed beta is also planned for August, accessible to all customers who pre-order Mortal Kombat 1.
What Videogame Platforms Will Mortal Kombat 1 Be Available On?
Mortal Kombat 1 is set to release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. However, what comes as a surprise is that MK 1 will also be available on the Nintendo Switch. Nintendo's lower power makes it interesting to see how the game performs on this console.
Though, the PS4 release for Mortal Kombat 1 is notably absent.
NetherRealm Studios is developing new-generation versions while external developers collaborate on other editions. Shiver Entertainment and Saber Interactive are working with the creators of Mortal Kombat on the Switch version. QLOC is handling the Epic Games Store and Steam versions.
Mortal Kombat 1 Trailer
The announcement trailer for MK 1 establishes the game’s storyline, building upon the events of Mortal Kombat 11's Aftermath DLC. Following Fire God Liu Kang's victory over Shang Tsung and Kronika, he resets the timeline to its beginning. This makes MK 1 a sequel to Mortal Kombat 11 and a soft reboot of the franchise's lore. This is clever from the series' creators as it simplifies the complex timeline for newcomers.
The trailer begins with Liu Kang explaining his decision to create a fresh start, offering people the freedom to choose between a peaceful existence or engaging in combat. It shows iconic characters from the series' past in their original forms, including Raiden without his godly powers, which have been transferred to Liu Kang.
As expected, the trailer also features Scorpion and Sub-Zero preparing to face off. However, an eclipse captures everyone's attention before a battle can commence.
Shang Tsung emerges from a portal, unleashing a relentless assault on the cast, except for Liu Kang, who ultimately defeats him with a potential future Fatality move.
Mortal Kombat 1 was introduced through a CGI trailer that effectively sets the stage for the game. It showcases popular characters loved by fans and retains the signature gore that Mortal Kombat is famous for.
Furthermore, a more extended gameplay trailer has been released, showcasing extensive footage. This trailer is known for its intense gore, and you can check it out here.
What Is The Mortal Kombat 1 Roster And Story?
NetherRealm Studios has unveiled a partial list of characters for Mortal Kombat 1, featuring nine iconic fighters in the trailer. The reboot promises to reimagine each character based on their stories and fighting styles.
The trailers show that Mortal Kombat 1 is returning to its roots, with Liu Kang gathering fighters to participate in his renowned tournament. The game's official FAQ page mentions that it will feature a story mode presenting a new cinematic narrative. It offers unexpected twists on classic rivalries and delves into the original backstories of the diverse cast of legendary fighters.
This suggests that players may get to revisit their favorite characters' origins. The announcement trailer suggests that Shang Tsung will again be the antagonist in this installment.
The rebooted Mortal Kombat 1 introduces some intriguing changes to the series canon, including the revelation that Sub-Zero and Scorpion are now portrayed as brothers and other altered character dynamics.
This game aims to initiate a "new era" for the franchise. The confirmed characters for Mortal Kombat 1 include:
Johnny Cage
Kenshi
Kitana
Kung Lao
Liu Kang
Mileena
Raiden
Scorpion
Shang Tsung (pre-order exclusive)
Sub-Zero
Note that this list is not exhaustive; more characters will be revealed as the September release date approaches.
Mortal Kombat 1 Gameplay
Mortal Kombat 1 is a side-scrolling fighting game that prioritizes enjoyable and accessible combat over complex mechanics. The game features the trademark gory Fatality executions for humiliating opponents.
NetherRealm Studios has confirmed the inclusion of rollback netcode, which helps mitigate the impact of lag and poor connections during online matches. This feature significantly enhances the game experience. You can expect the gameplay to be bloody, brutal, and extremely violent, with stomach-churning fatalities. The game showcases detailed stages, immersive environments, well-designed character models, and beautiful cinematics.
Like assisting characters in other fighting games, the Kameo Fighter system allows players to select a secondary character for assistance during a match. However, it cannot be directly controlled or swapped.
Mortal Kombat games have always featured additional modes, such as the Tower of Time in Mortal Kombat 11. Specific methods for Mortal Kombat 1 have not been confirmed yet; we can expect the game to offer alternative ways to play, like with previous entries in the franchise.
According to Ed Boon, the chief creative officer at NetherRealm Studios, Mortal Kombat 1 represents a fresh start for the franchise. It introduces an original storyline and offers a new perspective on classic characters.
Mortal Kombat 1’s NEW Kameo Fighter System
Mortal Kombat 1 introduces a new feature called Kameo Fighters, which serve as partner characters that assist players during battles. These fighters are chosen from a separate roster from the main characters, offering expanded gameplay options.
The Kameo Fighter system will bring "a unique roster of partner characters into the mix," as Ed Boon explains. You could team up two Sub Zero variants or Scorpion with Goro (whatever combination you want). Then use unique offensive and support-based moves.
Mortal Kombat 1 Kameo Fighters confirmed:
Goro
Kano
Kung Lao
Jackson "Jax" Briggs
Scorpion
Sonya Blade
Stryker
Sub-Zero
The initial gameplay footage of MK 1 showcases its expected brutality and introduces the Kameo Fighter system. NetherRealm Studios has clarified that Mortal Kombat 12 is Mortal Kombat 1, indicating a complete reboot of the series, set to release in September.
Additionally, an early access beta for MK 1 is also scheduled for August, exclusively available to players who pre-order the game. The release date for Mortal Kombat 1 is approaching quickly, and fans can expect to experience the ultimate test of strength as they prepare to choose their favorite fighter and master the brutal fatality moves.
