General Information
Mortal Kombat has been a staple in the world of fighting games for over 30 years. With each new installment, Netherrealm Studios manages to bring something fresh and exciting to the table. Mortal Kombat 1 is no exception. In this review, we will explore the game's groundbreaking Kameo system, its captivating single-player story mode, and its online features. We will also discuss the game's visuals, microtransactions, and the overall impact it has made in the fighting game community.
If there were a Mount Rushmore for fighting games, you can bet that the faces of iconic characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Liu Kang would be carved into the rock. These characters have been ripping spines and severing heads since the inception of Mortal Kombat. However, Mortal Kombat 1 introduces a gameplay shift that sets it apart from its predecessors.
The most significant innovation in Mortal Kombat 1 is the introduction of the Kameo system. For the first time in the series, players can choose a second character to assist them during fights. Each Kameo character has their own meter, which is depleted every time they are called upon. This system adds a new layer of complexity and strategy to the gameplay.
With the Kameo system, players can break the rules of the game by giving characters tools they weren't originally designed to have. This results in a dynamic fighting system that allows for unique combos and setups. For example, if you're playing as Baraka, who lacks overhead and low attacks, you can choose Scorpion as your Kameo character to add an overhead move to your arsenal. This opens up new possibilities for offense and keeps opponents on their toes.
In addition to the Kameo system, Mortal Kombat 1 implements several smart changes to the fighting mechanics. The game returns to a single meter system, which governs enhanced special moves, breakers, and jump cancels out of uppercuts. Fatal blows are still present but no longer invincible on startup. Krushing blows have been completely removed, and character variations are no longer a factor.
One notable improvement is the ability for every character to deal more damage without spending meter. This, combined with the new air combo system, allows for more aggressive and impactful gameplay. Additionally, blocked crouching jabs are now punishable with crouching jabs of your own, reducing their spamability. These changes address pain points that the fighting game community had developed with Mortal Kombat 11 and make the action in Mortal Kombat 1 feel both fresh and familiar.
Mortal Kombat 1's story mode marks a true new beginning for the series. Set after the events of Mortal Kombat 11, the entire history of Mortal Kombat has been rewritten. Familiar characters receive new looks, backstories, relationships, and powers, creating an exciting and fresh narrative. The story mode picks up eons after the events of Mortal Kombat 11, with Earthrealm at peace and Outworld ruled fairly by Queen Sindel.
The story mode starts with lighthearted chapters featuring the supportive dad Fire God Liu Kang cheering on his new champions in their first martial arts tournament. However, things quickly take a turn as peace is threatened by outside forces. This leads to high-stakes battles and the introduction of new characters. The story mode is big, bombastic, and well-acted, delivering an experience akin to an absurd popcorn movie.
One of the highlights of Mortal Kombat 1's story mode is the focus on previously minor characters. Baraka and Reptile, for example, play major roles in the narrative, with their own chapters and defining moments. The writing is full of cheeky in-universe references that reward longtime fans of the series. Netherrealm Studios has consistently excelled at delivering story modes that are the equivalent of absurd popcorn movies, and Mortal Kombat 1 is no exception.
While Mortal Kombat 1's story mode offers a gripping narrative, the heart of the game lies in its bone-crunching gameplay. The dial-a-combo system, trademark button-blocking mechanism, and distinctive movement mechanics create a unique style of 2D fighting.
Mortal Kombat 1's combat system, though initially challenging to grasp, rewards players who invest time in mastering it. The game's tutorial is comprehensive, covering everything from basic controls to advanced system mechanics. It provides practical tips on pressuring opponents, handling knockdowns, executing frame traps, and more.
The game's combo trials further enhance the learning experience, offering character-specific challenges that test players' execution and creativity. While some characters may take time to gel with due to their unique playstyles, once players adapt, Mortal Kombat 1's combat proves to be as strong as ever.
Netherrealm Studios has always been known for its attention to detail in character models, and Mortal Kombat 1 takes it to the next level. The character models are incredibly realistic, pushing the boundaries of photorealism without venturing into the uncanny valley. However, the true stars of the game are the stages. The environmental team at Netherrealm has crafted breathtaking vistas and disturbing dungeons that add depth and immersion to the fighting experience.
The fatalities in Mortal Kombat 1 are particularly noteworthy. They are more gruesome than ever, adding an extra level of shock value to the game. Whether it's ripping out spines or decapitating opponents, the fatalities are a gruesome spectacle that fans of the series have come to expect and appreciate.
Mortal Kombat 1 introduces a new single-player mode called Invasions. This mode combines elements from The Krypt, RPG mechanics, and Towers of Time. While the concept sounds promising, it falls short of delivering a truly engaging experience.
In Invasions, players navigate a virtual game board consisting of spaces, each with a themed fight assigned to it. The battles are often repetitive, with enemies that don't provide much challenge. The mode includes themed towers and ambushes that add variety, but these encounters are also lacking in difficulty.
The RPG elements in Invasions, such as damage types, talismans, and relics, add unnecessary complexity without significantly enhancing the gameplay. Late-game boards force players to engage more with these mechanics, but they detract from the core strength of Mortal Kombat 1's combat system. Although Invasions provides a constant stream of rewards, unlocking the best cosmetic options requires a significant time investment, turning the mode into a chore.
Mortal Kombat 1's online features remain largely unchanged from Mortal Kombat 11. The netcode is solid, providing a smooth online experience. Kombat League, a ranking system that rewards players for achieving high ranks, is back with seasonal rewards and unique prizes. The return of King of the Hill mode allows players to spectate matches while waiting for their turn to fight.
However, Mortal Kombat 1 falls short in some areas compared to its competitors. Unlike other modern fighting games, it does not allow players to matchmake while in another mode. Creating custom rooms with multiple slots for simultaneous matches is also not possible. Joining matches in progress results in a blank screen until the match finishes. These limitations feel dated and leave Netherrealm Studios trailing behind other fighting game developers. While crossplay is planned for the future, its absence at launch is a disappointment.
As expected, Mortal Kombat 1 features microtransactions. The game includes a store with rotating premium cosmetics that can be purchased with a premium currency. Frustratingly, the cosmetics can only be bought in bundles, making it difficult to obtain specific items without spending more than necessary. However, the premium currency can also be earned by completing the campaign, providing a substantial amount for those who prefer not to spend real money.
On the positive side, the Invasions mode is free from microtransactions. There is no pay-to-win aspect, and new boards are added every season. Daily and weekly towers, similar to the Towers of Time in Mortal Kombat 11, also cycle in with no extra cost. This ensures that players who enjoy Invasions have constant content to engage with.
Mortal Kombat 1 is another fantastic entry in the legendary fighting game series. The game's Kameo system introduces a fresh layer of strategy and creativity to the combat, while smart changes to the mechanics address previous pain points. The single-player story mode continues to set the gold standard for the genre, delivering a bombastic and enjoyable experience. However, some aspects of the online features feel dated, and the Invasions mode falls short of its potential. Regardless, Mortal Kombat 1 marks a new beginning for the franchise and sets the stage for an exciting future.
In conclusion, Mortal Kombat 1 is a must-play for fans of the series and newcomers alike. With its innovative gameplay, captivating story mode, and stunning visuals, it proves that Mortal Kombat remains at the forefront of the fighting game genre. So gear up, choose your fighters, and unleash your inner warrior in the bone-crunching world of Mortal Kombat 1.
The Evolution of Mortal Kombat Gameplay
If there were a Mount Rushmore for fighting games, you can bet that the faces of iconic characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Liu Kang would be carved into the rock. These characters have been ripping spines and severing heads since the inception of Mortal Kombat. However, Mortal Kombat 1 introduces a gameplay shift that sets it apart from its predecessors.
The Game-Changing Kameo System
The most significant innovation in Mortal Kombat 1 is the introduction of the Kameo system. For the first time in the series, players can choose a second character to assist them during fights. Each Kameo character has their own meter, which is depleted every time they are called upon. This system adds a new layer of complexity and strategy to the gameplay.
With the Kameo system, players can break the rules of the game by giving characters tools they weren't originally designed to have. This results in a dynamic fighting system that allows for unique combos and setups. For example, if you're playing as Baraka, who lacks overhead and low attacks, you can choose Scorpion as your Kameo character to add an overhead move to your arsenal. This opens up new possibilities for offense and keeps opponents on their toes.
Smart Changes to the Fighting Mechanics
In addition to the Kameo system, Mortal Kombat 1 implements several smart changes to the fighting mechanics. The game returns to a single meter system, which governs enhanced special moves, breakers, and jump cancels out of uppercuts. Fatal blows are still present but no longer invincible on startup. Krushing blows have been completely removed, and character variations are no longer a factor.
One notable improvement is the ability for every character to deal more damage without spending meter. This, combined with the new air combo system, allows for more aggressive and impactful gameplay. Additionally, blocked crouching jabs are now punishable with crouching jabs of your own, reducing their spamability. These changes address pain points that the fighting game community had developed with Mortal Kombat 11 and make the action in Mortal Kombat 1 feel both fresh and familiar.
A New Beginning: The Story Mode
Mortal Kombat 1's story mode marks a true new beginning for the series. Set after the events of Mortal Kombat 11, the entire history of Mortal Kombat has been rewritten. Familiar characters receive new looks, backstories, relationships, and powers, creating an exciting and fresh narrative. The story mode picks up eons after the events of Mortal Kombat 11, with Earthrealm at peace and Outworld ruled fairly by Queen Sindel.
The story mode starts with lighthearted chapters featuring the supportive dad Fire God Liu Kang cheering on his new champions in their first martial arts tournament. However, things quickly take a turn as peace is threatened by outside forces. This leads to high-stakes battles and the introduction of new characters. The story mode is big, bombastic, and well-acted, delivering an experience akin to an absurd popcorn movie.
One of the highlights of Mortal Kombat 1's story mode is the focus on previously minor characters. Baraka and Reptile, for example, play major roles in the narrative, with their own chapters and defining moments. The writing is full of cheeky in-universe references that reward longtime fans of the series. Netherrealm Studios has consistently excelled at delivering story modes that are the equivalent of absurd popcorn movies, and Mortal Kombat 1 is no exception.
Unleash Your Inner Fighter: Gameplay Experience
While Mortal Kombat 1's story mode offers a gripping narrative, the heart of the game lies in its bone-crunching gameplay. The dial-a-combo system, trademark button-blocking mechanism, and distinctive movement mechanics create a unique style of 2D fighting.
Mastering the Unique Combat System
Mortal Kombat 1's combat system, though initially challenging to grasp, rewards players who invest time in mastering it. The game's tutorial is comprehensive, covering everything from basic controls to advanced system mechanics. It provides practical tips on pressuring opponents, handling knockdowns, executing frame traps, and more.
The game's combo trials further enhance the learning experience, offering character-specific challenges that test players' execution and creativity. While some characters may take time to gel with due to their unique playstyles, once players adapt, Mortal Kombat 1's combat proves to be as strong as ever.
The Stunning Visuals of Mortal Kombat 1
Netherrealm Studios has always been known for its attention to detail in character models, and Mortal Kombat 1 takes it to the next level. The character models are incredibly realistic, pushing the boundaries of photorealism without venturing into the uncanny valley. However, the true stars of the game are the stages. The environmental team at Netherrealm has crafted breathtaking vistas and disturbing dungeons that add depth and immersion to the fighting experience.
The fatalities in Mortal Kombat 1 are particularly noteworthy. They are more gruesome than ever, adding an extra level of shock value to the game. Whether it's ripping out spines or decapitating opponents, the fatalities are a gruesome spectacle that fans of the series have come to expect and appreciate.
The Invasions Mode: A Mixed Bag
Mortal Kombat 1 introduces a new single-player mode called Invasions. This mode combines elements from The Krypt, RPG mechanics, and Towers of Time. While the concept sounds promising, it falls short of delivering a truly engaging experience.
In Invasions, players navigate a virtual game board consisting of spaces, each with a themed fight assigned to it. The battles are often repetitive, with enemies that don't provide much challenge. The mode includes themed towers and ambushes that add variety, but these encounters are also lacking in difficulty.
The RPG elements in Invasions, such as damage types, talismans, and relics, add unnecessary complexity without significantly enhancing the gameplay. Late-game boards force players to engage more with these mechanics, but they detract from the core strength of Mortal Kombat 1's combat system. Although Invasions provides a constant stream of rewards, unlocking the best cosmetic options requires a significant time investment, turning the mode into a chore.
Online Features: A Mix of Familiarity and Limitations
Mortal Kombat 1's online features remain largely unchanged from Mortal Kombat 11. The netcode is solid, providing a smooth online experience. Kombat League, a ranking system that rewards players for achieving high ranks, is back with seasonal rewards and unique prizes. The return of King of the Hill mode allows players to spectate matches while waiting for their turn to fight.
However, Mortal Kombat 1 falls short in some areas compared to its competitors. Unlike other modern fighting games, it does not allow players to matchmake while in another mode. Creating custom rooms with multiple slots for simultaneous matches is also not possible. Joining matches in progress results in a blank screen until the match finishes. These limitations feel dated and leave Netherrealm Studios trailing behind other fighting game developers. While crossplay is planned for the future, its absence at launch is a disappointment.
Microtransactions and Monetization
As expected, Mortal Kombat 1 features microtransactions. The game includes a store with rotating premium cosmetics that can be purchased with a premium currency. Frustratingly, the cosmetics can only be bought in bundles, making it difficult to obtain specific items without spending more than necessary. However, the premium currency can also be earned by completing the campaign, providing a substantial amount for those who prefer not to spend real money.
On the positive side, the Invasions mode is free from microtransactions. There is no pay-to-win aspect, and new boards are added every season. Daily and weekly towers, similar to the Towers of Time in Mortal Kombat 11, also cycle in with no extra cost. This ensures that players who enjoy Invasions have constant content to engage with.
Verdict: A New Era Begins
Mortal Kombat 1 is another fantastic entry in the legendary fighting game series. The game's Kameo system introduces a fresh layer of strategy and creativity to the combat, while smart changes to the mechanics address previous pain points. The single-player story mode continues to set the gold standard for the genre, delivering a bombastic and enjoyable experience. However, some aspects of the online features feel dated, and the Invasions mode falls short of its potential. Regardless, Mortal Kombat 1 marks a new beginning for the franchise and sets the stage for an exciting future.
In conclusion, Mortal Kombat 1 is a must-play for fans of the series and newcomers alike. With its innovative gameplay, captivating story mode, and stunning visuals, it proves that Mortal Kombat remains at the forefront of the fighting game genre. So gear up, choose your fighters, and unleash your inner warrior in the bone-crunching world of Mortal Kombat 1.
