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Mortal Kombat 1

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Mortal Kombat 1
Item: Mortal Kombat 1
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Side View Perspective, Fighting, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableSep 19, 2023

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperNetherRealm Studios

Overview

A new era has begun. It's In Our Blood. Discover a reborn Mortal Kombat Universe created by 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!

Elsewhere

8.7

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Mortal Kombat 1’s story mode dazzles with bold cinematic flair, fresh character dynamics, and a universe-altering plot that redefines the franchise—yet stumbles under clunky pacing, overreliance on nostalgia, and a rushed, underwhelming conclusion. Praise for its emotional depth, humor, and accessibility clashes with criticism of disjointed timelines, predictable twists, and a lack of innovation, leaving fans divided but ultimately impressed by its ambition.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Mortal Kombat 1 receives widespread praise for its ambitious narrative scope, cinematic presentation, and fresh approaches to character dynamics. Critics like Game Rant highlight its "cinematic story mode" with a "compelling plot," while GamesHub and Impulsegamer commend its blend of modern blockbuster elements and martial arts action. The introduction of Liu Kang as a god reshaping the universe is frequently lauded, with VG247 noting it as a "rollercoaster of twists" that exceeds expectations. Many praise the story’s accessibility for newcomers, such as Press Start Australia, which calls it an "engaging and accessible" reinvention, and Gameblog.fr, who describe it as "well-crafted" with humor and character development. The narrative also earns acclaim for its emotional depth and bold reimaginings of lore, as noted by CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral, which call it the "best in a fighting game" and "compelling story" respectively. However, several critics point to significant flaws, particularly in pacing, originality, and narrative cohesion. IGN Brasil calls the story "the worst in the franchise since Armageddon," citing "mal-written twists" and a "disastrous ending." Others like Screen Rant and GameMAG criticize the reliance on nostalgia, with the latter noting the second half feels "disjointed" and lacks a proper conclusion. Gaming Age and Easy Allies argue the story loses momentum as it expands into multiple timelines and characters, making emotional connections difficult. The ending is frequently criticized for being underwhelming or rushed, with GamingBolt pointing to a "rushed ending without sufficient buildup" and TheSixthAxis calling the final fight a "step back from previous games." Some also note the story’s overuse of callbacks and lack of innovation, as highlighted by Washington Post and MeuPlayStation, which describe it as "comfortable nostalgia" rather than progress. Despite mixed reactions, the overall consensus leans toward appreciation for Mortal Kombat 1’s storytelling as a bold, cinematic experience that revitalizes the franchise’s lore. While critics like IGN Italia and Jeuxvideo.com acknowledge its "predictable conclusion," many praise its ambition and execution, with TouchArcade calling it the "best story mode the team has created so far" and ComicBook hailing it as the "best in the series for a long time." The narrative’s strengths—such as character development, humor, and world-building—are often contrasted with its flaws, but most agree it represents a significant step forward for the franchise. As GameSpot notes, the story is "fun and unpredictable" with "bold character developments," even if some changes may frustrate longtime fans. Ultimately, while not without issues, Mortal Kombat 1’s story mode is seen as a standout achievement in fighting game storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Mortal Kombat 1 dazzles with its refined mechanics, strategic Kameo system, and accessible combat, but repetitive gameplay, balance issues, and performance hiccups on Switch temper its impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Mortal Kombat 1 is widely praised for its refined mechanics, innovative systems, and accessibility. Critics highlight the Kameo system as a standout feature, adding strategic depth and variety by allowing players to summon support characters during fights. IGN notes that the Kameo system "makes combat more agile and fun," while Game Rant emphasizes its ability to enhance "combat depth and variety." The game’s combo mechanics also receive acclaim, with Destructoid praising the "fluid and engaging" combat that lets players "learn and execute combos effectively." Additionally, the streamlined controls and intuitive design make it approachable for newcomers, as CGMagazine points out, while still offering complexity for veterans. Game Informer lauds the "tight gameplay" and impactful moves, noting that chaining combos and utilizing Kameos adds a layer of depth that elevates the experience. The return to core fighting mechanics, combined with fresh elements like the Fatal Blow comeback mechanic, is seen as a positive step by critics like But Why Tho? and Twinfinite. Despite these positives, several reviewers point out flaws that detract from the experience. Some criticize the gameplay for feeling repetitive or overly simplistic, with GameMAG calling the mechanics "repetitive and straightforward" and TheXboxHub noting it can feel "basic at times." Balance issues are another recurring concern, as GameMAG and Multiplayer.it mention characters being "overly powerful" or favoring aggressive playstyles that frustrate casual players. Performance issues, such as slowdowns and bugs, are also highlighted by IGN, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, while Finger Guns criticizes the Kameo system as "gimmicky" and disruptive to flow. Additionally, the grind for character upgrades is seen as tedious by XboxAddict, and some feel that the game “plays it safe” without significant innovation, as GamingTrend notes. The Invasions mode, while praised for its RPG elements by Checkpoint Gaming, faces criticism for balance issues and a lack of training options, according to MeuPlayStation. Overall, the majority of critics view Mortal Kombat 1’s gameplay as a strong evolution of the franchise, with its Kameo system and refined mechanics earning widespread praise. While some concerns about repetition, balance, and performance persist, these are often framed as minor drawbacks in an otherwise polished experience. Multiplayer.it calls it "the best in terms of pure gameplay," and Game Informer highlights its "impactful" combat and "depth." The game’s ability to blend accessibility with competitive depth—whether through the Kameo system or streamlined controls—resonates with reviewers like IGN, who note its appeal to both casual and hardcore players. Despite mixed feedback on specific mechanics, the consensus is clear: Mortal Kombat 1 delivers a compelling, engaging gameplay experience that honors the series’ legacy while introducing meaningful innovations.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Mortal Kombat 1 dazzles with its refined mechanics, strategic Kameo system, and accessible combat, but repetitive gameplay, balance issues, and performance hiccups on Switch temper its impact.

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics hailed Mortal Kombat 1 as a visual triumph, praising its stunning graphics, immersive environments, and detailed character models powered by Unreal Engine 4, though platform-specific issues and minor flaws tempered its near-universal acclaim.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised Mortal Kombat 1’s graphics and visual design as a significant leap forward, emphasizing its technical and artistic achievements. Many highlighted the game’s detailed character models, vibrant color palettes, and immersive environments. For instance, IGN Spain lauded the “excellent graphics” with fluid animations and impactful special effects, while Eurogamer Germany noted the “vibrant colors and impressive cinematic sequences” that marked a departure from previous entries. The use of Unreal Engine 4 was frequently cited as a key factor in the game’s visual fidelity, with XboxEra calling it “the best in the fighting game genre” and MondoXbox praising its “impressive 4K visuals.” Additionally, PlayStation LifeStyle commended the “superb facial animations,” and Gamer.no highlighted “exceptional facial animations and detailed character models” that set a new standard. The aesthetic direction, blending nostalgia with modern hyperrealism, was also celebrated, as noted by IGN Italia and Eurogamer Poland, who praised the attention to detail in textures and animations. However, some criticisms emerged, particularly regarding platform-specific compromises and minor design choices. Nintendo Life and IGN on the Nintendo Switch criticized the downgraded graphics, citing issues like resolution dips, glitching, and blurred stages that detracted from the experience. PC Gamer noted the reuse of old character designs and an inconsistent aesthetic, especially with the Kameos feature, while GameMAG pointed out “clunky combat animations” that clashed with the high-quality visuals. Vandal mentioned occasional frame drops during transitions, and PlaySense critiqued the awkward shift between cutscenes and gameplay. These issues were largely confined to specific platforms or niche aspects of the game, with most critics on PS5 and Xbox Series X praising the visuals despite minor flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with Mortal Kombat 1 being hailed as a visual standout in the fighting genre. While platform-specific limitations and isolated design critiques existed, they were overshadowed by widespread acclaim for its technical prowess and artistic direction. PCMag called it “a technical and artistic masterpiece,” while Destructoid praised its “visually stunning” character models and immersive stages. Even critics who noted minor flaws acknowledged the game’s broader achievements, such as Power Unlimited’s praise for its “colorful and lighter aesthetic inspired by Chinese art” or XboxEra’s assertion that it offers “the best-looking fighting games.” The majority of reviewers agreed that Mortal Kombat 1 successfully elevated the series’ visual identity, balancing nostalgia with modern innovation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Mortal Kombat 1’s sound design and music are a roaring success, praised for immersive, brutal atmosphere, seamless gameplay integration, and bold fusion of traditional and electronic elements—though some critics called parts of the soundtrack forgettable and voice acting uneven.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Mortal Kombat 1 received widespread acclaim for their immersive and impactful execution. Critics like Atomix praised the "familiar themes with enhancements" that fit the game’s atmosphere, while GamingBolt called the sound design "exceptional," noting how it amplified the brutality of combat. Eurogamer highlighted the soundtrack’s homage to the series’ roots, blending modern and techno influences, and Game Rant lauded its diversity and memorability compared to previous entries. The integration of music with gameplay was frequently praised, with CD-Action noting how the "well-integrated" sound design enhanced the experience, and PlayStation Universe applauding the East Asian-inspired soundtrack for its quality and atmosphere. Additionally, KeenGamer described the audio as a "masterclass," emphasizing its range from tranquil to intense, while WellPlayed celebrated the fusion of traditional oriental flutes with electronic beats. These reviews underscore a strong consensus that the sound design and music significantly elevated the game’s immersion and emotional depth. However, some criticisms emerged regarding specific aspects of the audio. Areajugones noted that while sound effects were "impactful," the soundtrack "did not reach the same level of excellence." BaziCenter pointed to "music and dialogue issues," suggesting inconsistencies in execution, and IGN Italia criticized the soundtrack for lacking memorability despite its atmospheric contributions. Gamereactor UK described the music as "anonymous" and unremarkable, while PlaySense called the voice acting "lackluster." Additionally, Xbox Tavern singled out Nitara’s poor voice acting as a standout flaw, and Jeuxvideo.com noted passable but unexceptional vocal performances. While these critiques were less frequent, they highlighted areas where the audio design fell short of expectations, particularly in terms of originality and consistency across elements like dialogue and music. Overall, the critical reception of Mortal Kombat 1’s sound design and music leans heavily positive, with most reviewers praising their ability to enhance immersion and complement gameplay. While there were minor criticisms about the soundtrack’s memorability or voice acting inconsistencies, these issues did not overshadow the broader acclaim. IGN France emphasized the "immersive quality" of the audio, while GameSpot highlighted the "realistic and impactful" sound effects during fatalities. The consensus was that the audio design successfully balanced nostalgia with innovation, as noted by Press Start Australia, which called the music a "notable improvement," and ZTGD, who praised the "excellent" and "epic" tracks. Though not flawless, the overall sentiment reflects a strong, cohesive audio experience that aligns with the game’s high production values and intense combat.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Mortal Kombat 1’s voice acting shines with standout performances like Alan Lee’s Shang Tsung and Kelly Hu’s Kitana but falters due to Megan Fox’s lifeless Nitara and casting hiccups, resulting in a polarizing yet mostly effective narrative experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Mortal Kombat 1 receives generally positive feedback from multiple reviewers, highlighting its contribution to the game’s immersive storytelling and character depth. Critics like IGN Spain and GameSpot note that while the voice acting is appreciated, it occasionally falls short in fully convincing portrayals. Standout performances include Alan Lee’s portrayal of Shang Tsung, praised by Dexerto for its campy, flamboyant delivery, and Kelly Hu’s work as Kitana, which some critics describe as exceptional. Gamer.nl and GRYOnline.pl commend the voice acting for bringing characters like Johnny Cage to life with authenticity, while GameSkinny and TheXboxHub emphasize its cinematic quality in the story mode. Additionally, Worth Playing highlights strong new actors fitting seamlessly into the cast, and Eurogamer applauds the narrative-enhancing performances, particularly from Shang Tsung. These positives underscore the voice acting’s role in elevating the game’s overall experience. However, several critics point to notable flaws, with Megan Fox’s performance as Nitara frequently cited as a major weakness. Gaming Nexus, PlaySense, and GameSpot criticize her delivery as “deadpan” or “monotone,” contrasting sharply with the rest of the cast. Shacknews and ZTGD also highlight her performance as “notably criticized,” while Xbox Tavern and Merlin'in Kazanı note that Nitara’s voice acting feels underwhelming compared to other characters. Other critiques include inconsistencies in character casting, such as Meristation’s observation that some Spanish dubs don’t match their roles, and Vandal’s criticism of the Spanish version’s “poor choices.” Additionally, GameOver.gr mentions awkward lines and inconsistencies, while GamesHub points to one unenthusiastic performance. These issues, though not universal, create a recurring point of contention among reviewers. Overall, the consensus leans toward the voice acting being a strong, if uneven, aspect of Mortal Kombat 1. While most critics agree it enhances immersion and storytelling—IGN, Eurogamer, and Gamereactor UK all praise its quality—the repeated criticism of Megan Fox’s performance as Nitara stands out as a significant drawback. XboxEra and Generación Xbox acknowledge her casting as a “notable exception,” but others like Windows Central describe it as “jarringly bad.” Despite these flaws, the majority of reviews highlight the voice acting as a solid foundation for the game’s narrative, with standout performances from actors like Shang Tsung and Kitana. The mixed reception reflects a balance between technical excellence and occasional missteps, particularly in character casting and delivery.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Mortal Kombat 1 excels on PS5 and Xbox Series X with smooth 60fps, stable netcode, and minimal lag, while the Nintendo Switch crashes, lags, and bugs its way through gameplay—a technical disaster compared to other platforms. PC fares decently but struggles with quirks, making it the least polished despite overall solid performance.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Mortal Kombat 1 varies significantly across platforms, with some systems receiving praise for stability and polish. On PS5, multiple critics like IGN, Gfinity, and TechRadar Gaming highlighted smooth gameplay, consistent 60fps performance, and minimal lag, particularly in online matches. Generación Xbox and Pure Xbox praised the Xbox Series X version for its rollback netcode and stable frame rates, while GameSkinny noted solid online play despite minor bugs. On PC, TechRadar Gaming and Gfinity commended the game’s smooth performance, though some reviewers like TouchArcade pointed out the Steam Deck’s struggle to maintain 60fps. The Xbox Series X also received positive feedback for its fast matchmaking and stable netcode (Generación Xbox, Gamereactor UK), while PC versions saw mixed results but generally strong performance overall (Games.cz, The Games Machine). However, several platforms faced notable technical issues. The Nintendo Switch version was heavily criticized for inconsistent performance, including frame rate drops, input lag, and bugs that disrupted gameplay (IGN, Nintendo Life, TouchArcade). XGN specifically noted the Switch’s lack of attention compared to other platforms. On PS5, while most critics praised stability, Eurogamer and Vandal highlighted online connectivity problems, crashes, and lag during multiplayer matches. PC versions also had issues, with Ragequit.gr citing crashes and sluggish menus, and Meristation noting minor audio desynchronization in story mode. The Xbox Series X faced occasional stutters in cutscenes (Gamereactor Finland) and a lack of cross-play at launch (Press Start Australia), though these were less severe than the Switch’s issues. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Mortal Kombat 1 performs best on PS5 and Xbox Series X, with stable netcode, smooth frame rates, and minimal technical hiccups (IGN, Gfinity, Generación Xbox). The PC version also received praise for its solid performance, though some platform-specific quirks persisted. However, the Nintendo Switch version was widely criticized as the weakest in terms of technical execution, with IGN and TouchArcade pointing to poor optimization and persistent bugs. While most platforms saw minor issues, the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions were generally regarded as the most polished, with critics like Digital Chumps and Finger Guns noting only "minor quirks" or "virtually no technical issues." The game’s technical shortcomings were most pronounced on the Switch, underscoring the challenges of cross-platform development.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Mortal Kombat 1 delivers crunchy, varied gameplay with inventive modes and deep customization, but its repetitive Invasions, grindy progression, and undercooked online features risk alienating fans—offering solid foundation, but only if updates fix its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of reviewers highlight positive aspects of Mortal Kombat 1’s replay value, emphasizing its diverse modes and content. Critics like IGN France and GamesHub praise the game’s Invasions mode and seasonal content as key drivers of longevity, with GamesHub noting that daily challenges and the Kameo system encourage experimentation. Gamereactor Finland and TheXboxHub commend the variety of single-player modes, character customization options, and unlockable content, while Gamer.nl and Press Start Australia suggest that future updates could further enhance replayability. Additionally, IGN Spain and VGC highlight the game’s robust roster and progression systems, which keep players engaged through character mastery and cosmetic unlocks. These reviews collectively paint a picture of a title with substantial content to explore, even if some elements feel underdeveloped. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks that temper the game’s replay value. The Invasions mode, while praised for its seasonal structure by PlaySense and GamesRadar+, is frequently criticized as repetitive, grindy, and less engaging than previous modes like Krypt. PC Gamer and Push Square note that the lack of customization options and a barebones online experience limits long-term appeal, while TheGamer and Hardcore Gamer argue that the progression systems feel tedious and unambitious. IGN Brasil and MeuPlayStation explicitly state that Invasions’ repetitive nature detracts from replayability, and GameStar points out the short single-player campaign as a drawback for solo players. These critiques suggest that while Mortal Kombat 1 offers plenty to do, its execution in key areas may frustrate some players. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward positive, with many acknowledging the game’s potential despite its flaws. While IGN and Game Rant highlight the variety of modes and unlockables as strong selling points, others like PCGamesN and TouchArcade express uncertainty about long-term engagement due to repetitive systems. The divide centers on whether the Invasions mode and progression mechanics are seen as innovative or underwhelming. But Why Tho? and SomosXbox argue that the game’s content is robust enough to justify its replay value, while IGN Brasil and PC Gamer caution that these elements may not satisfy all players. Ultimately, Mortal Kombat 1 appears to offer a solid foundation for replayability, but its success hinges on how well future updates address current shortcomings.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The majority of critics praised Mortal Kombat 1 for its strong gameplay, visual design, and engaging story mode, highlighting it as a standout entry in the franchise. Game Informer lauded its "tight gameplay," "excellent character designs," and "strong single-player content," while IGN Spain called it a "standout fighting game" that successfully reboots the series with "exceptional gameplay, visuals, and a rich story." TheGamer emphasized its "excellent gameplay" and "great story mode," calling it one of the best in the series, and DualShockers noted its "great story, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and plenty of replay value." Many reviewers, including Generación Xbox and Gamereactor Finland, celebrated its innovative mechanics and polished presentation, with the latter describing it as a "solid entry" with a "captivating story" and "stunning visuals." The game’s accessibility for newcomers and refined combat systems were also frequently highlighted, positioning it as a fresh yet familiar experience for fans. However, several critics pointed out notable flaws that tempered their enthusiasm. Gaming Nexus and Nintendo Life criticized the game’s "messy story" and technical issues, with the latter calling the Switch version "plagued by numerous issues." PC Gamer and Slant Magazine noted a lack of innovation, with the former stating it felt like a "step back for the series," while Multiplayer.it mentioned struggles with "narrative coherence and balance issues." Other concerns included repetitive single-player modes (Push Square), underdeveloped online features (Vandal, Cubed3), and a "weak story conclusion" (MeuPlayStation). IGN Brasil and Eurogamer specifically called out the story’s shortcomings and technical hiccups, while GameOver.gr acknowledged its flaws but still deemed it a "must-play for fans." These critiques often centered on areas where the game failed to meet expectations despite its core strengths. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with many considering Mortal Kombat 1 a strong and refreshing entry in the series. Game Informer, IGN Spain, and GamesHub all praised its "refined" and "confident" approach, while TheGamer and DualShockers highlighted its potential as a "breath of fresh air" and "rebirth" for the franchise. Even critics who pointed out flaws, like PC Gamer and Slant Magazine, acknowledged its solid foundation and appeal to fans. The game’s ability to balance nostalgia with innovation, coupled with its polished mechanics and visual flair, resonated across platforms, as noted by outlets like XboxEra and Cultured Vultures. While not without its issues, Mortal Kombat 1 was widely regarded as a significant achievement that revitalized the series, earning it a place among the best fighting games of the year.

TL;DR

Critics praise Mortal Kombat 1 for its tight gameplay, stunning visuals, and immersive story, calling it a revitalizing reboot of the franchise, though flaws like a convoluted plot, technical hiccups, and repetitive modes temper its brilliance—yet it remains a must-play for fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

207 reviews found

100

Dexerto

PlayStation 5

Sep 15, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 is praised for rebooting its universe and refining gameplay, making it a strong contender in the fighting game genre with a wealth of content and fan-focused improvements.

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100

GGRecon

PlayStation 5

Sep 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 is praised as the most complete package in a fighting game, appealing to both new and returning players with its engaging content and refined mechanics.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Sep 13, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 is a polished, beautiful work of art that is a remarkably innovative entry into the long running franchise. The love and care put into recrafting existing characters is evident.

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100

God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Sep 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 is one of the greatest fighters of all time, with a fantastic story, enjoyable gameplay, and lots of replay value. It has some minor issues, but overall it is adored by the reviewer.

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100

VGC

Xbox Series X

Sep 13, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 is hailed as the best game in the series, combining stunning visuals, a brilliant Story mode, and engaging gameplay, making it essential for fans and newcomers alike.

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100

GamesRadar+

PlayStation 5

Sep 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 is a superbly presented fighting game that balances familiarity with innovation. It caters to casual and competitive players alike, making it a strong entry in the series.

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DualShockers

PlayStation 5

Sep 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 lives up to its hype, with a great story, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and plenty of replay value.

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Press Start Australia

Xbox Series X

Sep 13, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 is a successful reinvention of the franchise, combining a strong roster, innovative gameplay mechanics, and impressive visuals, making it one of the best fighting games available.

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Meristation

PlayStation 5

Sep 18, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 is a standout title in the fighting genre, praised for its visual presentation, engaging story, and deep gameplay mechanics, despite some commercial decisions that may frustrate players.

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Gamers Heroes

PlayStation 5

Sep 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mortal Kombat 1 is brutally brilliant and probably the best Mortal Kombat game ever played. It delivers an impressive storyline, fun and challenging gameplay, stunning graphics and visual design, high-quality sound design and voice acting, and offers good replay value.

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