The Ultimate Addition: Exciting New Kombat Kids for Future Mortal Kombat 1 DLC

Highlights

Takeda Takahashi, one of the members belonging to the "Kombat Kids" introduced in Mortal Kombat X, assumes a distinctive role in Mortal Kombat 1's new timeline, possibly possessing a different origin story.

The inclusion and incorporation of characters like Cassie Cage and Jacqui Briggs, known as the Kombat Kids, in the new timeline may be influenced by their direct ties to their parents' counterparts. In contrast, Kung Jin has the potential to make a strong return.

Mortal Kombat 1 is gearing up for release, continuing NetherRealm's iconic series and catching attention with its forthcoming DLC. A surprising trailer has unveiled Kombat Pack 1, which will showcase six fighters previously believed to be mere rumors. From the debut of Invincible's Omni-Man to the reappearance of the infamous antagonist Quan Chi, Mortal Kombat 1 aims to pay homage to both the past and the future of the franchise. Amidst the significant impact made by most of the revealed DLC roster, one member of this group truly stands out.

The licensed faces and classic retro combatants of the first new Kombat Pack may have captured most people's attention, but one character stands alone as a unique sign of things to come. Takeda Takahashi, a member of the group known as the "Kombat Kids" in Mortal Kombat X, represents the new generation following a time skip in the game. With varying reception for the offspring of existing fighters, only half of them made it into Mortal Kombat 11. However, Takeda's presence becomes even more intriguing as the latest title propels the series into a brand-new timeline.

Takeda's Mysterious Role in Liu Kang's New World

In the new world shaped by Liu Kang, classic characters have been reimagined with fresh origin stories, but Takeda's place is uncertain. Originally, Takeda was portrayed as Kenshi's son, who was also trained by Scorpion. However, with the emergence of younger versions of these characters, Takeda's role seems dubious. Some fans speculate that Takeda could actually be Hanzo Hasashi (Scorpion's original identity) in this timeline, now that Scorpion has transformed into Kuai Liang (Sub-Zero's usual persona). Nevertheless, a new concept could better serve Takeda and the Kombat Kids, offering them the justice they deserve.

Takeda may have different potential new origins, but unlike the other cast members, the Shirai Ryu clan member is likely to pave his own way. Similar to Scorpion, he wields bladed whips, and like his father, the blind swordsman Kenshi, Takeda possesses telekinetic sword abilities. It would be beneficial for him to establish this unique fighting style as his own. However, once this precedent is set, the other Kombat Kids may struggle to adapt to the same formula.

The Dubious Lore of the Kombat Kids Could Affect Their Representation

While Takeda might break free from the influence of his former mentors, the situation may be more challenging for Cassie Cage and Jacqui Briggs, as they are directly linked to their parents in the new timeline. Cassie is the adult daughter of Johnny Cage, who has reemerged in a much younger form. It seems that Cassie's only chance to participate is through the role of a Kameo fighter, as Kameos exist independently of the game's lore on a multiversal level. Similarly, Jacqui has the potential to fill her father Jax's role entirely, considering his current presence solely as a non-canon Kameo.

The least popular of the Kombat Kids, Kung Jin, ironically may be the most suitable candidate for a comeback. Unlike his peers, he wouldn't be affected by the generational gap. Despite his subtle representation of queerness in the series, Kung Jin's impact has been overshadowed by popular characters such as his cousin, Kung Lao. While the Kombat Kids have faced controversy since their introduction, Mortal Kombat 1 could provide an opportunity for their redemption if they are given the freedom to flourish independently.