The iconic fighting game franchise Mortal Kombat has unveiled its 12th mainline entry: Mortal Kombat 1. While the next entry in the series was initially teased by co-creator Ed Boon on his Twitter account, details about the upcoming game were later leaked by a prominent source. The game is slated for release on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC in September 2023. Here’s what you need to know about the latest addition to the Mortal Kombat franchise.
Background Information
The Mortal Kombat Franchise and its Controversy
Mortal Kombat is a long-running series of fighting games known for their violent and gory gameplay. The franchise has been around since 1992 and has sparked controversy for its depiction of violence and brutality, leading to the creation of the ESRB classification system for video games.
Previous Installments of Mortal Kombat
The previous installment of the Mortal Kombat series, Mortal Kombat 11, ended with the series’ protagonist, Liu Kang, defeating villain Kronika and resetting the Mortal Kombat universe. This led to speculation about the series’ direction and what the next iteration would bring.
About Mortal Kombat 1
The Initial Teaser and Leak
On May 10, 2023, Ed Boon uploaded a mysterious video on his Twitter account, hinting at the next installment in the Mortal Kombat series. Soon after, Twitter user billbil-kun revealed details about the game, its name, and its release platforms.
The Reboot of the Franchise
Mortal Kombat 1 is set to be a reboot of the Mortal Kombat franchise, similar to Mortal Kombat (2011). It will focus on new interpretations of classic characters like Sub-Zero, Kitana, Raiden, Mileena, Johnny Cage, and others.
The Release Date and Platforms
Mortal Kombat 1 is expected to release on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC on September 19, 2023. It will have various versions, including the Standard, Premium, and Kollector’s edition, with different price points.
The Gameplay and Features of Mortal Kombat 1
Mortal Kombat 1 will feature new gameplay elements, including Kameo Fighters, which are partner characters that aid in fights. It will also include the trademark brutality and gore that Mortal Kombat is known for, with improved online gameplay through the use of rollback netcode.
What to Expect from Mortal Kombat 1
A Possible Retelling of the Original Mortal Kombat Game
The new iteration may be a retelling of the original Mortal Kombat game, which has not been explored in-depth within the series. Alternatively, it could explore the rise of The Great Kung Lao – a character important in Mortal Kombat lore but is yet to feature as a playable character.
The Inclusion of New Playable Characters, Including Those from Warner Bros. Franchises
The game is expected to have six new playable characters, including those from other franchises such as Peacemaker from the DC Universe and Homelander from the comic book series “The Boys.”
A New Universe and Storyline
The game will feature a new storyline with a fresh reimagination of classic characters as well as a new interpretation of its universe.
Variations of Kombatants
The game will also offer variations of kombatants, as well as customizable versions of fan-favorite characters like Scorpion and Sub-Zero.
Pre-Order and Release Information
The Standard Edition
The Standard edition of Mortal Kombat 1 is priced at $69.99 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, and $59.99 on the Nintendo Switch.
The Premium Edition
The Premium edition of the game is priced at $109.99.
The Kollector’s Edition
The Kollector’s edition is priced at $249.99 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Pre-Order Bonuses
Pre-ordering the game on Xbox and PlayStation will grant early access to the beta in August, while pre-ordering the Premium edition will allow full access to the game on September 14.
Conclusion
Mortal Kombat 1 is poised to be a hit and is expected to attract both longtime fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. With fresh new gameplay elements, a new storyline, and the inclusion of new and familiar characters, Mortal Kombat 1 is shaping up to be a worthy sequel to its predecessor and another successful addition to the franchise.
FAQs
1. Is Mortal Kombat 1 a reboot of the series?
Yes, Mortal Kombat 1 is a soft reboot of the Mortal Kombat series.
2. What platforms will Mortal Kombat 1 be available on?
Mortal Kombat 1 will be available on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
3. What gameplay elements can we expect from Mortal Kombat 1?
Mortal Kombat 1 will feature Kameo Fighters, partner characters, new versions of fan-favorite characters, and customizable kombatants, among other gameplay elements.
4. What characters will be included in Mortal Kombat 1?
The game will feature new interpretations of classic characters like Sub-Zero, Raiden, and Johnny Cage, as well as new playable characters like Peacemaker from the DC Universe and Homelander from “The Boys” comic book series.
5. When will Mortal Kombat 1 be released?
Mortal Kombat 1 is set for release on September 19, 2023.
