Mortal Kombat 1: The Classic Fighting Game that Shaped the Franchise
Mortal Kombat 1, released in 1992, was the game that started it all. It was the game that pioneered combo-driven fighting and introduced the world to the concept of fatalities. It’s no wonder that the title has been re-released and remastered on nearly every gaming platform since its inception.
One aspect that sets Mortal Kombat apart from other fighting games is the visceral nature of the gameplay. When players land a blow, there is an almost palpable sensation of impact. You’ll feel like you’re really landing a punch or kick, and every combo feels satisfying.
Gameplay against the high-level CPU is always a challenge, and even experienced players will find themselves struggling to keep up with the AI. The game’s combat system requires precise timing and rapid reflexes, and this is especially true when facing down the formidable opponents of Mortal Kombat 1.
One character that often comes up in discussions of Mortal Kombat 1 is Kano. GameRant refers to him as a “Glow-Down,” which is a clever way to describe how his graphics don’t look as good by today’s standards. However, Kano is still one of the most memorable and iconic characters from the game, with his cybernetic eye and his deadly grappling moves.
One of the most exciting moments in the build-up to Mortal Kombat 1’s release was the debut trailer. IGN shared an official gameplay debut trailer in 4K resolution at the Summer Game Fest 2023. It was an exciting glimpse of the title’s new graphics and showcased some of the game’s most beloved characters, including Kitana, Scorpion and Sub-Zero.
Not everyone is sold on Mortal Kombat 1’s storyline, however. The Loadout dismisses Liu Kang’s new timeline, which explains the warrior’s motivations and provides a contextualised backstory in the game. However, for others, one of the strengths of Mortal Kombat 1 is how it laid the foundation for a rich and complex story that would be built upon in future instalments.
Finally, GameSpot offers full coverage of all things related to the game, from trailers and gameplay reveals to expert analysis and reaction from the gaming community.
But what is it about Mortal Kombat 1 that still captures our imaginations all these years later? Perhaps it’s the brutal and visceral combat that is still challenging, even today. Or maybe it’s the iconic characters and their unique movesets, with each fighter having their own strengths and weaknesses. Or it could even be the way the game pushes boundaries with its violence and gore, making it an instant classic.
If you’ve never played Mortal Kombat 1 before, it’s worth giving it a try. Whether you’re a fan of fighting games or a newcomer to the genre, there’s something for everyone. The game may not be as graphically advanced as its modern counterparts, but the gameplay and characters are timeless. Mortal Kombat 1 forged the path for a now-giant franchise, and it still stands the test of time as a fighting game classic.
