Mortal Kombat 1
" Dynamic action fighter with fluid Kameo combat and stunning visuals but plagued by bugs and long loads "
Mortal Kombat 1 Review
Mortal Kombat 1 presents a bold franchise reboot with a fresh storyline centered on Liu Kang's reshaped universe. The game delivers fast, fluid combat enhanced by the innovative Kameo Fighter system, adding tactical depth through tag-in mechanics. The roster features iconic characters with reimagined abilities, complemented by stunning graphics and detailed gore that elevate the visceral experience. The story mode is notably stronger than previous entries, engaging players with emotional character arcs and multiversal chaos.
However, the game suffers from several drawbacks. Players frequently report technical issues such as long loading times, bugs, and poor PC optimization. Monetization strategies, including expensive DLC and microtransactions, have been criticized as exploitative. The roster size feels limited, with many characters locked behind paywalls or relegated to non-playable Kameo roles. Additionally, the game’s replayability is hindered by repetitive modes and a lack of customization options. Despite these flaws, the core gameplay and story offer a compelling experience, especially if purchased on sale.
Highlights
Gameplay mechanics are praised for their fast pace, fluidity, and the strategic Kameo Fighter system. Graphics and animations receive high marks for detail, atmosphere, and artistic gore effects. The storyline is considered the strongest in the series, with engaging character development and a fresh multiverse narrative. Players appreciate the return of classic features like Fatalities and Brutalities, along with new modes like Invasions. The sound design and voice acting also contribute positively to the immersive experience.
These elements combine to create one of the most complete and compelling fighting games in recent years.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on technical problems such as shader compilation delays, frequent crashes, and long loading screens, especially on PC. Many players find the game overpriced, particularly given the aggressive DLC practices and microtransactions. The roster is seen as limited, with numerous characters locked behind paywalls or unusable Kameo fighters, which frustrates fans. The online experience suffers from server issues and unbalanced matchmaking. Replayability is diminished by repetitive game modes and a lack of meaningful customization. Additionally, some players feel the Kameo system disrupts combat flow and that the game lacks the depth and polish of previous Mortal Kombat titles.
Pros
- • Fast and fluid combat with strategic Kameo tag-in mechanics enhances gameplay depth.
- • Stunning, highly detailed graphics and atmospheric arenas enrich the visual experience.
- • Strong and engaging storyline with emotional character arcs and multiverse twists.
- • Classic Mortal Kombat features like Brutalities and Fatalities return with flair.
- • Invasions mode adds RPG-lite elements and varied challenges for replayability.
- • Sound design and voice acting effectively complement the intense combat scenes.
- • Character models are well-crafted, with some standout designs like Reptile.
Cons
- • Long loading times and frequent shader compilations disrupt gameplay flow.
- • Numerous bugs and crashes, especially on PC, hinder the overall experience.
- • Aggressive monetization with expensive DLC and microtransactions frustrate players.
- • Limited playable roster with many characters locked or relegated to Kameo roles.
- • Repetitive game modes and lack of customization reduce long-term replay value.
- • Kameo system can feel gimmicky and complicate learning new characters.
- • Online suffers from server lag, unbalanced matchmaking, and lack of room browsing.
Rating Criteria
Discover a reborn Mortal Kombat™ Universe created by the Fire God Liu Kang. Mortal Kombat™ 1 ushers in a new era of the iconic franchise with a new fighting system, game modes, and fatalities!
