Mortal Kombat 1 Unleashed: Everything We Know About The Brutal Brawler

John Summers • Contributor

May 21, 2023 9:00 PM EDT

Prepare to step back into the ring, but not quite as you remember it. Mortal Kombat, the storied fighting game franchise that has engaged players for decades, is gearing up to launch its latest iteration, Mortal Kombat 1. This new chapter is set in a reborn universe, the result of events that transpired in Mortal Kombat 11. From an ephemeral period of peace to Shang Tsung unleashing chaos, this new timeline offers fresh takes on classic rivalries and backstories, giving both new and veteran players an opportunity to experience the Mortal Kombat lore like never before.

Akin to its universe, Mortal Kombat 1 is also reimagining its gameplay mechanics. Fans can expect a new fighting system and novel game modes, which should be an exciting prospect, especially for those who found Mortal Kombat 11's system a tad complex. Moreover, well-loved characters are getting facelifts - meet flesh-and-blood Hanzo Hisashi, aka Scorpion, who despite the transformation, doesn't part with his legendary Kunai. The game also debuts Cameo Fighters, who could potentially expand the gameplay boundaries significantly. With a beta release, multiple editions, and new surprises like a Jean-Claude Van Damme skin for Johnny Cage, Mortal Kombat 1 is clearly upping the ante in its bid to redefine brutal, high-octane fighting games.

01
New Era Universe

via Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat 1 is set in a new era, where the universe has been reborn following the events of Mortal Kombat 11. Despite a brief moment of peace, chaos quickly erupts with Shang Tsung wreaking havoc in classic Mortal Kombat style. The new timeline also suggests major events from previous games haven't occurred yet, providing a fresh perspective on classic rivalries and backstories.
02
Reinvented Fighting System

via Mortal Kombat

The game features a new fighting system and game modes, though exact details have not been revealed. This could be exciting news for those who felt disoriented by the fighting system in Mortal Kombat 11.
03
Reimagined Fighters

via Mortal Kombat

Familiar characters like Liu Kang, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and others return with notable changes. Hanzo Hisashi, aka Scorpion, appears to be flesh and blood but retains his iconic spear. Other character-specific powers and weapons also make a comeback in their reimagined forms.
04
Kameo Fighters

via Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat 1 introduces "Kameo Fighters", partner fighters who can assist during battles. Selected separately from the main roster, these new additions could significantly broaden the gameplay possibilities.
05
Beta Release

via Mortal Kombat

Players eager to experience the game's new mechanics and reimagined fighters early can pre-order the title on PS5 and Xbox Series X and S to gain access to a beta version in August, along with Shang Tsung as a playable character at launch.
06
Editions and Pricing

via Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat 1 will be available in standard, premium, and collectors editions, with prices starting at $69.99. The premium edition includes the base game, early access, the Kombat pack, and in-game currency, while the collector's edition offers additional bonuses like art prints and extra Dragon crystals.
07
Kombat Pack

via Mortal Kombat

The Kombat pack offers early access to six new playable characters and five new Kameo Fighters post-launch. Rumored guest characters include John Cena's Peacemaker, Homelander from The Boys, Conan the Barbarian, and even Omni-Man.
08
Jean-Claude Van Damme Skin

via xfire

Mortal Kombat co-creator Ed Boon revealed a character skin for Johnny Cage that resembles actor Jean-Claude Van Damme. The actor has a unique history with Mortal Kombat, having been approached by the developers for the first game.
09
Port Developers

via Mortal Kombat

While NetherRealm Studios is developing the Xbox and PS5 versions, the Nintendo Switch and PC ports are being handled by other developers – Saber Interactive and Shiver Entertainment for Switch, and QLOC for PC.
10
Offline and Online Play

via Mortal Kombat

Online gaming enthusiasts, rejoice! The successful rollback netcode from Mortal Kombat 11 is set to return in Mortal Kombat 1. This is certainly positive news for the player community, even though it's yet unclear whether the netcode will be altered or entirely rebuilt for the new installment