Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1) 2023 is the latest installment in the franchise, featuring a diverse lineup of characters that cater to all types of players. The game brings together both new faces and beloved fighters from the series’ past, including Kenshi, who makes his first appearance since 2015, and Reiko, who hasn’t been playable since 2006. With its deep dive into Mortal Kombat’s rich history, the game offers a fresh mix of nostalgia and innovation.
The roster includes 30 characters, featuring series stalwarts, fan favorites, and even unique additions from other universes, such as Homelander and Omni-Man. The game’s accessibility on multiple platforms, including Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch, ensures that both new and veteran players can experience the revamped combat mechanics and rich character backgrounds. Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) is a standout title in the fighting game scene, with its commitment to diversity and novelty in its character selection.
Mortal Kombat 1’s Reimagined Roster: A Glimpse into the New Era
The Main Roster: A Mix of Old and New
Mortal Kombat 1 introduces a rebooted universe, bringing back classic characters with fresh storylines and fighting styles. Familiar faces like Liu Kang, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Raiden return, alongside newcomers like Li Mei and Kenshi. This blend of old and new creates a dynamic roster that appeals to both long-time fans and new players.
Kameo Fighters: A Unique Twist
A standout feature of Mortal Kombat 1 is the Kameo Fighter system. These secondary characters can be called upon during matches to assist in combos or deliver powerful attacks. The Kameo roster includes both returning favorites like Sonya Blade and Kano, as well as new additions like Stryker. This system adds a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay, allowing players to experiment with different character combinations.
DLC Characters: Expanding the Roster
Mortal Kombat 1 has already announced several DLC characters, including Homelander from The Boys and Omni-Man from Invincible. These additions bring a unique flavor to the game, introducing characters from outside the Mortal Kombat universe.
Character Table
| Character | Category | Playstyle |
|---|---|---|
| Liu Kang | Main | Balanced |
| Scorpion | Main | Rushdown |
| Sub-Zero | Main | Zoner |
| Raiden | Main | Mix-up |
| Kitana | Main | Zoner |
| Mileena | Main | Rushdown |
| Kenshi | Main | Mix-up |
| Johnny Cage | Main | Balanced |
| Li Mei | Main | Balanced |
| Shang Tsung | DLC | Zoner |
| Tanya | DLC | Rushdown |
| Homelander | DLC | Grappler |
| Omni-Man | DLC | Grappler |
| Quan Chi | DLC | Zoner |
| Ermac | DLC | Mix-up |
| Takeda Takahashi | DLC | Rushdown |
| Peacemaker | DLC | Grappler |
| Jean-Claude Van Damme (Skin for Johnny Cage) | DLC | Balanced |
Disclaimer: This overview provides a brief glimpse into the characters of Mortal Kombat 1. For a more in-depth analysis and to discover the unique playstyles of each fighter, it’s recommended to explore the game and its resources further.
Key Takeaways
- The game features 30 characters, mixing classic fighters with new crossover inclusions.
- Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) is available on multiple platforms, enhancing its reach.
- Character diversity and updated gameplay bolster the series’ long-standing popularity.
Returning Characters (Alphabetical Order)
Ashrah
Ashrah is back in MK1 2023. Fans like her because she fights demons. This time, she is trying to be good and fights her own kind.
Baraka
Baraka, known for his sharp teeth, also returns. He is part of a story where he tries to save his people. He fights against those who oppress his land.
Geras
Geras is a new face but quickly became a favorite. He controls time. His return adds mystery to the game’s plot.
Havik
Havik, the chaos-loving fighter, is here again. Players enjoy his unpredictable fighting style. He is known for causing trouble.
Johnny Cage
Johnny Cage is a classic character. He is famous for his cocky attitude and strong punches. Fans are excited to play as him again.
Kenshi Takahashi
Kenshi Takahashi, the blind swordsman, makes a comeback. His story involves fighting evil forces. His sword skills are unmatched.
Kitana
Kitana, the warrior princess, is also returning. She is a fan favorite for her deadly fan weapons. Her story is key to the game’s plot.
Kung Lao
Kung Lao is back with his sharp hat. His fighting skills are top-notch. He has a long history with the tournament.
Li Mei
Li Mei returns with her quick moves. She fights for her village’s freedom. She is known for her agility and strength.
Liu Kang
Liu Kang, the champion, is a central character. He fights for peace in all realms. His dragon abilities are legendary.
Mileena
Mileena, with her dangerous sais, is back too. She has a complex story involving her sister Kitana. She is fierce in battle.
Nitara
Nitara, the vampire character, returns with her flying abilities. She looks for ways to save her realm. Her story adds depth to the game.
Raiden
Raiden, the god of thunder, is a key character. He guides the heroes. His lightning powers are a highlight.
Rain
Rain, another god-like character, controls water. His return brings more power to the game. He is known for his royal background.
Reiko
Reiko is back, adding to the game’s intrigue. He is ambitious and seeks power. His plans always surprise players.
Reptile
Reptile, known for his stealth, returns. He can become invisible. His reptilian abilities are unique among fighters.
Scorpion (Kuai Liang)
Scorpion, under the name Kuai Liang, is a favorite. He is known for his “Get over here!” move. He seeks revenge and honor.
General Shao
General Shao is a new arrival. He brings strength and strategy to the battles. His leadership skills are unmatched.
Sindel
Sindel, with her screaming powers, is back. She is a queen with a tragic past. Her role is crucial to the story’s twists.
Smoke
Smoke, able to control smoke, returns. He is on a journey to find his true self. His abilities make him hard to catch.
Sub-Zero (Bi-Han)
Sub-Zero, as Bi-Han, comes back with his ice powers. He has a rivalry with Scorpion. His story is about redemption.
Tanya
Tanya, fighting with a staff, is back. She keeps secrets and plans moves against enemies. She is skilled in magic and combat.
Kameo Fighters (Alphabetical Order)
Cyrax
Cyrax joins the battle with signature bombs. Players can use them in different ways. He’s back with his fatal move allowing players to finish fights in style. Cyrax is known for this.
Darrius
Darrius is a choice for those who prefer strong, close combat. He has a place in story mode too. His classic look from Mortal Kombat Deception is now in high quality.
Frost
Frost brings ice powers to the fight. Her fatal blow strikes are a sight for fans who enjoy the series’ gore. She adds more options for players who like ice moves.
Goro
Goro, the four-armed fighter, is back as a Kameo. He’s known for his strength and intimidating presence. Players can expect powerful moves from him.
Jax Briggs
Jax Briggs relies on his metal arms to beat opponents. His punches are very strong. Jax is a favorite for many players because of his brute strength.
Kano
Kano joins the roster with his eye laser and sneaky fighting style. He’s a good pick for players looking for a mix of tech and trickery in their fights.
Kurtis Stryker
Stryker uses guns and batons to stand out. His style is different because it mixes modern combat with Mortal Kombat’s fantasy fights.
Motaro
Motaro, the centaur, is unique in the game. His size and style make him a tough opponent. He brings a different kind of challenge to the fights.
Sareena
Sareena uses her demon and human forms to fight. She can assist other villains in the game. Her flexibility as a Kameo fighter offers varied strategies.
Scorpion (Hanzo Hasashi)
Hanzo Hasashi, famously known as Scorpion, uses his iconic spear move. His line, “Get over here!” is famous. He is a popular choice for many players.
Sektor
Sektor uses missiles to attack from a distance. His ability to teleport lets him surprise opponents. He and Cyrax make a strong team.
Shujinko
Shujinko is known for learning other fighters’ moves. This ability makes him versatile. Players can adapt his style to match different opponents.
Sonya Blade
Sonya Blade mixes military training with energy moves. She’s a balanced fighter suited for many strategies. Her moves can catch opponents off guard.
Sub-Zero
Sub-Zero is another choice for ice power fans. He can freeze opponents, making them easy targets. His rivalry with Scorpion adds to the game’s lore.
DLC Characters
The MK1 2023 update brings a thrilling roster of DLC characters. These include both well-loved faces from the franchise and exciting guest fighters. Each character boasts their own set of brutal moves. Players can control these characters directly or use them as Kameo appearances. This adds depth and variety to the game.
Among the notable DLC characters are Shang Tsung, OmniMan, and Quan Chi. Each one has a special release date, stirring anticipation among fans. They’re not just additions to the game. They enhance the gameplay with their unique abilities and moves.
Kameo characters like Johnny Cage and Ferra offer support during fights. They can be summoned for specific moves on screen. This feature adds a strategic layer to the gameplay. Players must think carefully about when to call in these assists for maximum impact.
This blend of permanent fighters and on-call support characters ensures that every match in MK1 2023 is unpredictable and exciting. Mixing franchise heroes with guest characters keeps the game fresh and offers players a wide range of fighting styles to master.
Non-Playable Characters
Mortal Kombat 1 in 2023 has a rich list of characters. While many are playable, some are not but still add depth to the game. Let’s look at these non-playable characters (NPCs) and what they bring to MK1.
Cassie Cage
Cassie Cage, the daughter of Johnny Cage and Sonya Blade, makes an appearance. Though players can’t control her, she’s vital to the story. Her strong personality and fighting skills are clear, even in her limited role.
Conquest
Conquest is a character embodying the notion of ambition. His thirst for power drives many events in the game, putting him at odds with both heroes and villains. His complex motivations and tactics make him an unpredictable element, adding tension and excitement to the storyline.
Eclipso
Eclipso brings a layer of darkness to Mortal Kombat 1. As a character fueled by vengeance, his actions often blur the line between good and evil. Eclipso’s powers stem from darker forces, and his presence in the game introduces a chaotic element that players must navigate carefully.
Erron Black
Erron Black is known for his marksmanship and cool cowboy vibe. As an NPC, he contributes to the story’s underworld elements. His presence adds a layer of intrigue and depth, showing the complexity of MK1’s world.
Jacqui Briggs
Jacqui Briggs, daughter of Jax, plays a key role in MK1’s narrative. Her fighting prowess and technology use are shown in cutscenes. Jacqui’s story shows the personal stakes many characters have in the game’s battles.
Kollector
Kollector, with his multiple arms and greedy nature, is a striking figure in MK1. Although not playable, his interactions with other characters highlight the moral grey areas in the game’s universe.
Kotal Kahn
Kotal Kahn, as an NPC, shows the political tension in Outworld. His leadership and warrior skills are shown through the game’s story, providing insight into Outworld’s struggles.
Kronika
Kronika controls time, setting the stage for MK1’s events. She’s the puppet master behind many challenges players face. Kronika’s goals and powers are a central part of the game’s plot.
Kung Jin
Kung Jin is a skilled archer and cousin to Kung Lao. His background and motivations are revealed, adding to the game’s rich backstory. Though not playable, he’s a memorable part of the MK1 universe.
Nightwolf
Nightwolf, known for his spiritual power and connection to nature, appears in crucial plot points. His wisdom and strength shine, even though players can’t choose him for battles.
Onaga
Onaga, the Dragon King, poses a significant threat in the MK1 storyline. His presence underscores the high stakes and ancient history influencing the game’s present conflicts.
Shinnok
Shinnok, a fallen Elder God, is behind many of the game’s darker moments. His manipulation and power make him a key figure in MK1’s story. Though not a fighter in the game, his impact is felt throughout.
Overview of Mortal Kombat 1 (2023)
Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) is a reboot of the iconic tournament from the original 1992 game. This new version features stunning new visuals, refined combat mechanics, and a story that takes place across different timelines. The classic fighters like Liu Kang, Scorpion, and Sub-Zero make a return with updated looks and new moves, while fresh characters like Takeda and Ermac introduce unique fighting styles and abilities.
Along with the core roster, MK1 (2023) also includes cross-dimensional fighters called “Kameos”, inspired by popular characters like Omni-Man and Peacemaker. The game also introduces character fusions, which create unexpected combinations and add a new twist to the classic Mortal Kombat gameplay. Fans can expect exciting action, unexpected plot twists, and the iconic Fatalities now taken to the next level of gruesome spectacle.
The Origins and Evolution of MK1 Characters
The revival of Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1) introduces a rebooted storyline, bringing a deeper dimension to its character development. The characters’ backstories have been reimagined, retaining their core identities while adding fresh layers to their persona.
Starting with Liu Kang, the Shaolin monk’s tale sees him taking on his new role as Fire God. This evolution signifies a significant leap from his humble beginnings to a position of immense power and responsibility. Scorpion and Sub-Zero, historically rivals, now exhibit more nuanced motivations behind their classic feud, anchored in their Tarkatan and Edenian roots.
Raiden, the thunder god, maintains his stance as Earthrealm’s protector. His origin is augmented to better explain his godly capabilities and the origins of his iconic powers. Kung Lao’s trademark hat now comes with an equally iconic backstory, explaining its origin and significance in his journey.
Other figures like Kitana and Mileena from Edenia, Johnny Cage, and special forces operative Sonya Blade, retain their critical roles within the universe. New characters such as Nitara and Omni-Man, along with reimagined characters like the mercenary Kano and the cybernetically-enhanced Cyrax, add to the roster, ensuring a variety of fighting styles and storylines.
Characters like Kenshi, Ermac, and Takeda spotlight the mystical and otherworldly elements of the MK1 universe, where a fusion of sorcery and martial prowess shines. Meanwhile, antagonists such as Shang Tsung, General Shao, and the menacing Goro add complexity and challenge to each battle, making them pivotal in the game’s continuously evolving lore.
Each character’s journey through the game reveals their unique heritage, motivations, alliances, and vendettas, making MK1 more than just a fighting game – it’s a narrative experience complete with heroes, villains, and everyone in between.
Gameplay, Platforms, and the Gaming Experience
Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) showcases the evolution of classic characters in a fascinating way. The returning fighters, such as Raiden, Scorpion and Liu Kang, manage to retain the essence of their iconic movesets, while also featuring reimagined special moves, enhanced combos, and new, brutal Fatalities. The developers have carefully balanced nostalgia with modern fighting game sensibilities, resulting in a fresh yet familiar experience that caters to both old-school fans and newcomers alike.
In 2023, the MK1 game will introduce new gameplay possibilities with unique mechanics such as character fusions and Kameo Fighters. Fusions will create hybrid fighting styles that have never been seen before. These fusions, such as “Frostbite” (Nitara/Sub-Zero), will have unpredictable movesets and strategies. Kameo fighters, which are often from other franchises, will offer entirely new gameplay styles not seen before in Mortal Kombat. Their powers and abilities will add an extra layer of surprise, which will allow for unexpected matchups and strategies within the iconic Mortal Kombat formula.
Mortal Kombat 1 brings new excitement with enhanced combat mechanics, fresh downloadable content, and broad platform support.
Combat Mechanics and Character Abilities
Mortal Kombat tournaments are famed for their intense combat and Mortal Kombat 1 ups the ante. Players will find that the fighters have unique abilities that set them apart. Combo moves are fluid and fatalities are as gratifying as ever. The gameplay focuses on skill and strategy, ensuring that every battle feels like a new challenge.
Expanding MK1 Through Downloadable Content
Post-launch, the game will expand with downloadable content. The Kombat Pack DLCs, including Kombat Pack 1, will introduce new fighters, including kameo characters and fan favorites. DLC allows the game to stay fresh, offering new experiences months after the initial release.
Hardware Requirements and Supported Platforms
Mortal Kombat 1 will be available on several platforms including PC, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. For PC gamers, the requirements ensure that most modern rigs can handle the graphics without issue. Crossplay features bring players together, regardless of their chosen platform.
Supported Platforms:
- PC (Windows)
- Xbox Series X|S
- Nintendo Switch
Marketing and Anticipation Building Strategies
Warner Bros. Games has built anticipation for Mortal Kombat 1 through gripping trailers and a solid pre-order campaign. The premium edition of the game offers early access, enticing gamers to secure their copy ahead of the general release. The storyline teasers suggest a dramatic experience, keeping the community eager for the release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) is known for its exhilarating fights and a diverse character lineup. This section answers some of the most common queries about the game’s characters.
Who are the new characters introduced in the latest Mortal Kombat game?
The latest Mortal Kombat game introduces several new characters to the roster, such as the highly anticipated comic book heroes Omni-Man and Peacemaker. Alongside them, Homelander from the series “The Boys” joins the fight.
What are the special abilities of characters in the Mortal Kombat 2023 roster?
Characters in the Mortal Kombat 2023 roster each have unique special abilities that set them apart. These abilities range from powerful punches and kicks to special moves and finishers specific to each character’s combat style.
Which original Mortal Kombat characters have been included in the 2023 update?
The 2023 update includes a selection of original Mortal Kombat characters. Fans can once again play as classic fighters such as Johnny Cage, who also received a new character skin modeled after Jean-Claude Van Damme.
How many characters can players choose from in the new Mortal Kombat 1 game?
Players have a variety of 30 characters to choose from in the new Mortal Kombat 1 game. This selection ensures a rich and diverse gameplay experience.
Will Tarkatans be playable in Mortal Kombat 1?
Yes, Tarkatans are introduced as playable characters in the 2023 Mortal Kombat 1 roster, bringing a fresh and unique addition with their specific skills and attributes.
Who is the Tarkatan Klone?
The Tarkatan Klone is a new character added to the Mortal Kombat universe, incorporating Tarkatan features into familiar fighting styles to offer players a new twist on classic gameplay.
What makes Super Tarkatan stand out?
Super Tarkatan is designed with enhanced speed and strength, making it an ideal choice for players who prefer an aggressive playstyle.
Can you tell me about the Tarkatan Fighter’s gameplay?
The Tarkatan Fighter combines skills from both the Klone and Super Tarkatan, providing a balanced gameplay experience that allows players to explore new strategies within the Mortal Kombat universe.
How do Tarkatans enrich the Mortal Kombat 1 roster?
The addition of Tarkatans to the Mortal Kombat 1 roster enriches the game by offering players new characters with unique skills and attributes, thus introducing new strategies and fighting styles to explore.
