The Mortal Kombat series has been a defining force in the fighting game genre for over three decades. With numerous titles spanning various gaming platforms, it’s time to rank every Mortal Kombat game, including spin-offs and the latest installment, Mortal Kombat 1.
19. Mortal Kombat: Special Forces (2000)
Mortal Kombat: Special Forces is often cited as the weakest entry in the series. This beat ’em up prequel focused on Jax was marred by poor controls, lackluster graphics, and minimal content due to a troubled development cycle.
18. Mortal Kombat Advance (2001)
Transitioning to handheld with Mortal Kombat Advance proved challenging. The Game Boy Advance’s limitations resulted in compromised controls and gameplay, leading to extremely low scores and negative reviews.
17. Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero (1997)
This action-adventure spin-off focused on Sub-Zero but was marred by frustrating platforming elements and clunky controls. Despite its interesting story elements, it is often considered one of the weakest entries.
16. Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe (2008)
This crossover featured Mortal Kombat and DC characters. While it introduced some interesting mechanics, it was criticized for toning down the series’ signature gore and violence, resulting in a less impactful experience.
15. Mortal Kombat: Tournament Edition (2003)
An enhanced version of Deadly Alliance for the Game Boy Advance, Tournament Edition included additional characters and modes but still suffered from the limitations of handheld gaming.
14. Mortal Kombat Gold (1999)
An updated version of Mortal Kombat 4 for the Sega Dreamcast, Mortal Kombat Gold included additional characters and stages. Despite these additions, the game suffered from inferior graphics and numerous bugs.
13. Mortal Kombat 4 (1997)
Mortal Kombat 4 marked the series’ transition to 3D graphics and introduced new gameplay mechanics. However, it is often seen as a mixed bag, with some fans appreciating the innovations and others preferring the classic 2D style.
12. Mortal Kombat: Armageddon (2006)
Armageddon included every character from the series up to that point and introduced a create-a-fighter mode. However, its massive roster led to a lack of depth in individual characters, and the 3D fighting mechanics felt stale.
11. Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance (2002)
Deadly Alliance marked a new era with 3D fighting mechanics and a deeper focus on storytelling. Despite its limited fatalities and a tutorial-like Konquest mode, it set the stage for future 3D Mortal Kombat games.
10. Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks (2005)
This action-adventure spin-off focused on Liu Kang and Kung Lao, offering a fun beat-em-up experience. Shaolin Monks is often praised for its engaging gameplay and cooperative mechanics, making it one of the best spin-offs in the series.
9. Mortal Kombat (1992)
The original Mortal Kombat game deserves credit for starting it all. Its groundbreaking graphics, iconic characters, and infamous fatalities set it apart from other fighting games of its time. However, the gameplay mechanics haven’t aged as well compared to later entries.
8. Mortal Kombat 3 (1995)
Mortal Kombat 3 introduced new gameplay mechanics, like the “Run” button and chain combos. It also added more characters and refined the gameplay, solidifying its place in the franchise. Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 and Mortal Kombat Trilogy further enhanced this entry.
7. Mortal Kombat (2011)
Often referred to as Mortal Kombat 9, this reboot refreshed the series with a return to 2D fighting mechanics and a retelling of the original trilogy’s story. New features like Tag Team Battles and X-Ray moves revitalized the franchise.
6. Mortal Kombat 11 (2019)
Mortal Kombat 11 is often regarded as one of the best entries in the series. It boasts a robust roster, refined gameplay mechanics, and a deep, engaging story. The graphics are top-notch, and continuous support through DLC has made it a standout title.
5. Mortal Kombat: Deception (2004)
Deception improved on the foundation laid by Deadly Alliance with better gameplay, a larger roster, and the addition of combo breakers and deathtraps. Its expanded Konquest mode and mini-games like Chess Kombat added variety, making it a standout 3D entry.
4. Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath (2020)
An expansion to Mortal Kombat 11, Aftermath added new story content, characters, and stages. It further refined the gameplay and provided additional layers of narrative depth, making it a critical and commercial success.
3. Mortal Kombat II (1993)
Mortal Kombat II expanded the roster, improved graphics, and added more brutal fatalities. It is often seen as the definitive 2D Mortal Kombat experience and a major milestone in the series.
2. Mortal Kombat X (2015)
Mortal Kombat X built upon the success of the 2011 reboot with improved graphics and gameplay. Its Variation system allowed different playstyles for each character, and its story mode and roster were highly praised.
1. Mortal Kombat 1 (2023)
The latest entry in the series, Mortal Kombat 1, offers a refreshing reset with stunning visuals and the innovative Kameo Fighters system. Although it has some shortcomings in its online modes and endgame content, it promises potential with future updates.
From the groundbreaking Mortal Kombat II to the latest innovations in Mortal Kombat 1, the series has consistently pushed the boundaries of the fighting game genre. Each game holds a unique place in the hearts of fans, contributing to the rich legacy of Mortal Kombat. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, there’s a Mortal Kombat game that will capture your imagination and fighting spirit.
Explore the series and discover your favorite entry in this iconic fighting game franchise.
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