Highlights
Mortal Kombat 1 reimagines character dynamics and upcoming DLC character Takeda Takahashi might have a new origin as hinted by leaked pre-fight dialogue exchanges.
Takeda Takahashi, formerly in a minor role in Mortal Kombat 11, will now join Kombat Pack 1 with potential significant revisions to his backstory. These revisions may include introducing a cousin character, possibly Kenshi.
If the rumors hold true, the revelation of Takeda and Kenshi as cousins would mark a significant departure from their established father-and-son dynamic in the original Mortal Kombat timeline. This new relationship aligns with Kenshi's mission to liberate his family from the grip of the Yakuza.
Mortal Kombat 1 has revamped the dynamics of several classic characters, and a recent leak suggests that one of the upcoming DLC fighters in the game will receive a new backstory. This latest installment of Mortal Kombat serves as a reboot for the long-standing fighting game series. Fire God Liu Kang resets the timeline, creating a more optimistic world for the inhabitants of Earthrealm and Outworld. Former enemies, such as Scorpion and Sub-Zero, now stand united, and former villains have transitioned into more heroic roles. The iconic characters of the Mortal Kombat series find themselves in familiar yet significantly different positions.
Mortal Kombat 1 offers an abundance of beloved fighters in its main roster and additional Kameo fighter line-up. NetherRealm Studios has already introduced some of the warriors who will be added to the game through upcoming DLC character packs. While there is excitement surrounding guest fighters like Omni-Man from Invincible, who brings a ruthless presence, fans can also expect the inclusion of classic Mortal Kombat characters, such as Takeda Takahashi, the sword-wielding ninja from Mortal Kombat 10.
Takeda Takahashi, who had a minor role in Mortal Kombat 11 and was absent from the main storyline in Mortal Kombat 1, is set to make a comeback in the upcoming Kombat Pack 1. However, there are potential significant changes to his backstory. According to a Reddit user named TyrionGoldenLion, there are supposed pre-fight dialogue exchanges between Takeda and other characters that imply he has a cousin who is also a fighter. Many speculate that this cousin is Kenshi, as he aligns with the details in these conversations.
If this theory holds true, it would mark a significant departure from Kenshi and Takeda's relationship in the original Mortal Kombat timeline, where they were father and son. In addition, Takeda's character is likely to undergo other changes, considering his introduction in Mortal Kombat 10 where he was part of the reformed Shirai Ryu clan led by Hanzo Hasashi. Hanzo himself went through a dramatic transformation in Mortal Kombat 1, shifting from the well-known series mascot Scorpion to a young boy being mentored by Kuai Liang, who now assumes the role of Scorpion while being the second Sub-Zero.
Takeda Takahashi is expected to be under Kuai Liang's guidance in Mortal Kombat 1, but upcoming rumors suggest that his family situation will undergo significant changes. Although there is no official confirmation, the hints about Takeda having a "cause" align with Kenshi's mission to liberate his family from the Yakuza's influence. As for Takeda and Kenshi's newly formed connection, fans will likely have to wait until next summer for an official announcement. Mortal Kombat 1 can currently be played on PC, PS5, Switch, and Xbox Series X/S.