In the realm of fighting games, few titles have etched themselves into the annals of gaming history quite like Mortal Kombat. For over three decades, this iconic franchise has been synonymous with spine-ripping action, visceral combat, and unforgettable characters. In this review, we’ll dissect the latest installment in the Mortal Kombat series, Mortal Kombat 1. This game represents a seismic shift in gameplay, introducing fresh elements while staying true to the essence of the series. We’ll explore the spankin’ new Kameo system, gameplay mechanics, the refreshed story, and some minor imperfections that accompany this blood-soaked journey.
Before we dive into the game’s revolutionary Kameo system, let’s first acknowledge the significant departures from its predecessor, Mortal Kombat 11 (MK11). These changes redefine the core gameplay mechanics, addressing some long-standing issues while preserving the essence of Mortal Kombat.
Mortal Kombat 1 simplifies meter management by consolidating it into a single resource. This meter governs enhanced special moves, breakers, and the newfound ability to execute jump cancels out of uppercuts. Fatal blows, once invincible at startup, now come with an element of risk. The infamous krushing blows have been entirely phased out, and character variations are a thing of the past. Wake-up attacks and rolls have vanished from the game’s repertoire, leaving a clean slate for players to adapt to.
One of the most notable shifts is that every character can now inflict more damage without depleting meter reserves. This transformation is largely due to the introduction of a new air combo system. These alterations breathe fresh life into the gameplay, addressing pain points that emerged during MK11’s reign.
Now, let’s delve into the star of the show, the Kameo system. This groundbreaking feature introduces a level of player expression unparalleled in the Mortal Kombat series. It allows players to shatter the traditional rules of the game by bestowing characters with tools they weren’t originally designed to possess. The result is a dynamic fighting system that opens the door to wild combos and setups.
In Mortal Kombat 1, players can summon a second character as an ally during combat—a first for the series. This secondary character, known as your Kameo, has its own meter. When you call upon your Kameo, you expend half of their meter (or the entire meter for certain Kameos). What’s truly remarkable is the diverse array of assist moves each Kameo brings to the table. These moves offer multiple new tools to enhance your character’s capabilities.
Each Kameo enriches your character’s toolkit with a minimum of three assist moves. For example, if your character lacks overhead or low attacks within their combo strings, selecting a Kameo with these abilities provides an additional layer of offense. Alternatively, you can choose a Kameo with unique abilities, such as a low-hitting freeze attack, to catch opponents off guard and initiate devastating combos.
Kameos are not limited to expanding your offensive capabilities; they serve various strategic purposes. Some Kameos extend combos that would typically end prematurely, allowing for higher damage output. Others convert respectable damage from small hits that would typically go to waste. Certain Kameos specialise in offering advantages, such as teleportation, invulnerability to projectiles, or rapid retreat to long-range combat. The implementation of the Kameo system is well-thought-out, enhancing the game’s already solid foundation.
Mortal Kombat 1 also introduces an exceptional aerial combat system that significantly enhances the overall gameplay experience. When combined with the Kameo system, it adds layers of complexity and depth, elevating Mortal Kombat 1 to one of the most mechanically intricate entries in the franchise.
Additionally, the game features a robust tutorial system that walks players through the game’s mechanics, making it easier for newcomers to learn the ropes and enjoy the experience. The tutorial system also serves as a helpful refresher for returning players, allowing them to grasp the nuances of the Kameo system and other new mechanics quickly.
Mortal Kombat 1 offers a range of game modes to cater to players of different interests. While the game primarily shines in its head-to-head combat, these modes provide additional layers of enjoyment.
Krypt Mode: The Krypt is a staple of the Mortal Kombat franchise, and it returns in Mortal Kombat 1, albeit with a twist. This mode offers an exploration element where players navigate Shang Tsung’s island, encountering enemies, solving puzzles, and unlocking treasures. These treasures often include cosmetic items, gear, and even additional fatalities. The Krypt adds a layer of adventure to the experience, rewarding players for their exploration and puzzle-solving skills.
Towers of Time: Towers of Time provide an ever-changing challenge for players. These special towers feature unique modifiers, challenging players to adapt to various conditions, such as increased damage from certain attacks, hazards on the arena, and even quirky effects like oversized heads for the characters. It’s a mode that continually introduces fresh challenges, ensuring that no two play sessions feel the same.
Classic Towers: For those who prefer a more straightforward experience, the Classic Towers offer a traditional Mortal Kombat experience. Players can choose their character and engage in a series of battles against opponents, ultimately leading to a final boss encounter. The variety of towers ensures that players can find a challenge that suits their skill level, from beginner-friendly towers to those designed for experienced players.
Invasions: Invasions mode introduces cooperative play to the Mortal Kombat series. Players join forces to fend off waves of challenging opponents. The mode is a breath of fresh air, encouraging camaraderie among players as they take on formidable threats.
Online Play: Mortal Kombat 1’s online play is a significant aspect of the game, offering competitive battles against players from around the world. Whether you’re looking to test your skills in ranked matches or engage in more casual player matches, the online component is an essential part of the Mortal Kombat experience.
Online play in Mortal Kombat 1 largely follows the successful formula of its predecessor, Mortal Kombat 11. The netcode remains reliable, ensuring that matches run smoothly without significant lag or connection issues. For players seeking a competitive environment, Kombat League returns with its seasonal rewards, offering incentives for achieving high ranks, such as unique skins, gear, profile pictures, and more.
As with any game, there’s always room for improvement. While Mortal Kombat 1’s online play is commendable, some aspects may feel somewhat dated compared to other contemporary fighting games. Notably, the game lacks the ability to search for matches while engaged in other game modes, a feature that has become standard in many modern fighting games. Additionally, Mortal Kombat 1 does not offer the option to create custom rooms with multiple slots for simultaneous matches, a feature that can enhance the social experience of online play. When joining a match in progress, players must wait for the ongoing match to conclude, which can be a frustrating experience.
However, it’s worth noting that crossplay, a feature that allows players on different platforms to compete against each other, has been introduced in Mortal Kombat 1. This is a significant step forward for the series and promotes inclusivity among players on various gaming systems. Crossplay has the potential to improve matchmaking times and increase the pool of potential opponents.
Mortal Kombat 1 features an extensive customisation system that allows players to tailor their favorite characters to their liking. This system encompasses a wide array of skins, gear, intros, outros, and fatalities that can be equipped. While this level of character customization is a commendable feature, it does come with one potential drawback: unlocking all the content can be quite the grind.
To unlock various customisation options for characters, players must accumulate Time Krystals, the in-game currency. While it’s entirely possible to earn Time Krystals through gameplay, the process can be time-consuming, requiring players to complete daily challenges and in-game achievements. Alternatively, players can purchase Time Krystals with real-world currency.
The choice between grinding for in-game currency and making real-money purchases is a matter of personal preference. Some players may find satisfaction in gradually unlocking new skins and gear through gameplay, while others may opt for a more expedited path by purchasing Time Krystals. However, the presence of microtransactions has been a point of contention in the gaming community, and it’s essential to be aware of the options available within the game.
A fighting game’s character roster often serves as its heart and soul. Mortal Kombat 1 strikes a careful balance between bringing back beloved characters from the franchise’s rich history and introducing fresh faces to the stage. The roster features a diverse range of combatants, each with their own unique abilities and fighting styles.
Notable returning characters include Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Liu Kang, Sonya Blade, Raiden, and many more. However, Mortal Kombat 1 doesn’t merely rely on nostalgia. It introduces several new characters or characters who haven’t been seen in a while, such as Rain, Ashrah, and Nitara. Even returning characters have had a refresh, with some deviating quite heavily from their original designs.
Mortal Kombat 1 features surprisingly stunning visuals. We honestly weren’t expecting beautiful landscapes and cinematics from an arcade fighter game. The character models are highly detailed, bringing each fighter’s personality to life. The blood-soaked arenas provide a gruesome backdrop for the intense battles, and the use of dynamic lighting enhances the overall visual experience.
Additionally, the character intros, outros, and fatalities are masterfully crafted. Each character’s unique personality shines through in these sequences, and the fatalities are a visual spectacle that fans of the series have come to expect.
The audio in Mortal Kombat 1 is as intense as the action on screen. The bone-crushing sound effects, guttural grunts, and the crisp impact of each punch make the combat feel satisfyingly brutal. The voice acting is on point, capturing the essence of each character’s personality and motivations.
The soundtrack, while not as memorable as some classic fighting game themes, sets the tone for the battles with its energetic and foreboding melodies. The music serves to keep the adrenaline pumping as you engage in epic confrontations.
Mortal Kombat 1’s innovative Kameo system revitalizes gameplay. It preserves the essence of Mortal Kombat while introducing elements that make it unique among its predecessors.
The game isn’t without its minor imperfections, such as the grind for customisation options and certain limitations in online play. However, NetherRealm Studios has a history of supporting their games with updates and patches, and these issues may well be addressed in time. Then there’s the story, while not everyone is a fan, we personally quite enjoyed it.
In summary, Mortal Kombat 1 is a testament to the franchise’s enduring legacy. It caters to a broad spectrum of players, from newcomers to long-time fans seeking fresh challenges. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the franchise, this is one combat experience you won’t want to miss.
SKOAR!: 7.5/10
MOAR!:
Developer: NetherRealm Studios
Publisher: Warner Bros. Games
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows
Played on: PlayStation 5
Price: Rs 4,499 (Steam), Rs 4,799 (PS5)
