Mortal Kombat 1 Shatters Franchise Norms

The highly anticipated Mortal Kombat 1 has finally been announced with a cinematic trailer, which showcases a stunning new vision of the game's world. However, the trailer takes a dark turn and features the trademark gore the series is known for. While initially rumored to be titled "Mortal Kombat 12," the upcoming title seems to be breaking away from long-time series traditions and embracing subversion. This includes the latest incarnations of Scorpion and Sub-Zero, who have always been rivals as members of opposing clans. However, the upcoming game will reveal a shocking twist - the two are actually brothers, not enemies.

Mortal Kombat 11 took a bold step in progressing the reboot timeline into its conclusion, with a focus on character arcs that surprised many fans. The game humanized Scorpion in a way he had never been before, shocking long-time fans. However, the inclusion of time-traveling past versions of characters lacked the same development, making it a relatively safe move. Mortal Kombat 1, on the other hand, seems to be taking more risks. The cinematic trailer boldly declares that the series is moving forward, with Liu Kang as the new overseer of this new universe. The young versions of Scorpion and Sub-Zero reference their asset-flipped roots, but they are no longer rivals. The two stand together as allies and are referred to as "united as brothers" by the narrator. Mortal Kombat 1 functions as a subversive "requel" that keeps with this pattern.

In Mortal Kombat 1, NetherRealm Studios appears to be shaking things up by defying the franchise's traditional rivalries. Despite the ongoing conflict between Sub-Zero and Scorpion, the trailer shows them looking eerily similar, down to their hairstyles and outfit details. This intentional subversion of the mortal enemy dynamic is also seen in the peaceful coexistence of Kitana and Mileena, two series rivals who don't kill each other in the trailer. It's unclear what has brought about this unexpected unity, but it's possible that the fighters will have to band together to face a greater threat.

As more details emerge about this new reality, it seems likely that player expectations will continue to be challenged. Even Liu Kang, who has created a world of peace, is not immune to violent revenge. Shang Tsung's invasion and the resulting carnage suggest that there may be more to the story than meets the eye. Fans can expect to see more changes, characters, and surprises as Mortal Kombat 1 approaches its release.

Mortal Kombat 1 launches September 19 for PC, PS5, Switch, and Xbox Series X.