The Ultimate Double-Edged Thrill: Unveiling Mortal Kombat 1's DLC Roster
Mortal Kombat 1's DLC introduces thrilling new fighters, yet leaves fans yearning for more as it highlights a missed chance tied to certain character choices
Highlights
Mortal Kombat 1's DLC fighters reveal a strong roster for the future, but also leave fans wondering about missed opportunities and NetherRealm's future plans.
The addition of characters such as Peacemaker in Mortal Kombat 1, as well as the rumored inclusion of Harley Quinn and Deathstroke, is indeed thrilling. However, it also emphasizes the absence of a new Injustice game, leaving fans eagerly anticipating its comeback. Players who use these fighters alongside the Mortal Kombat 1 roster are likely to be reminded of Injustice and the significant time lapse between releases in this fighting series.
The revealed and leaked DLC fighters in Mortal Kombat 1 offer a promising roster for the future, raising speculation about what could have been. While the already announced characters are undoubtedly exciting additions, there are a few fighters that spark a different conversation. With many of the DLC fighters either absent for a long time or completely new to the series, there is immense potential to explore. Examining the revealed fighters leads to questioning NetherRealm's future plans.
The unveiling of the first DLC fighters in Mortal Kombat 1 generated excitement for several reasons. Firstly, it confirmed one of the initial game rumors. However, more importantly, it provided players with a glimpse of the upcoming fighters. Kenshi's son Takeda, the enigmatic Ermac who embodies many souls, and the villainous Sorcerer Quan Chi all earned their places as worthy returning characters. The other half of the DLC includes guest fighters, namely Peacemaker, Homelander, and Omni-Man, who originate from mature superhero franchises. This suggests that the DLC theme may revolve around such properties, especially since there are rumors of two more DC fighters joining the lineup. Nevertheless, relying heavily on DC cameos may disappoint Injustice fans.
Mortal Kombat 1's DLC Brings To Mind Injustice 3's Absence
Special mention should be given to the inclusion of Peacemaker, as there are rumors circulating about upcoming Mortal Kombat 1 DLC that will feature Deathstroke and Harley Quinn as well. All three characters originate from the DC comics universe, with Harley Quinn being particularly well-known. Although they may seem like unconventional additions to Mortal Kombat, they are no strangers to violence. Both Peacemaker and Harley have their own mature-themed shows, as well as the recent Suicide Squad movie, while Deathstroke is an expert assassin. Given their backgrounds, it's not surprising to imagine any of them executing fatalities in the style of Mortal Kombat.
The inclusion of these DLC fighters also brings to mind another fighting game developed by NetherRealm. Although it appears that Injustice 3 is still a long way off, the fact that at least one DC character has been confirmed for Mortal Kombat 12, with two more rumored, inevitably leads to thoughts of the Injustice series. Injustice 2, released in 2017, featured a fantastic lineup of DC characters battling it out. It's not difficult to envision Harley, Deathstroke, and Peacemaker facing off against other iconic DC heroes and villains, especially considering that two of them have previously appeared in the series. However, instead of clashing with DC counterparts, they will be confronting the deadliest warriors of the Mortal Kombat universe.
The inclusion of Peacemaker, Harley, and Deathstroke in Mortal Kombat 12 is both exciting and bittersweet. These characters are a perfect fit for Mortal Kombat 1, but their presence serves as a reminder that Injustice is still awaiting its next installment. The Injustice universe has untapped storytelling potential and offers a roster of DC characters who haven't had the opportunity to enter the games yet. While Injustice 3 may not be confirmed, Mortal Kombat 12 reassures fans that they will have the chance to play as a few more DC stars in the meantime.
Mortal Kombat 1's DLC choices were impressive, but unintentionally redirected attention to another popular franchise. The addition of guest fighters in Mortal Kombat 1 could potentially signify that NetherRealm hasn't abandoned the Injustice series. With Harley being one of the standout characters in those games, her appearance in Mortal Kombat will evoke nostalgia for some fans. While Injustice 3's fate remains uncertain, fans can speculate about the future by examining Mortal Kombat 1's DLC offerings.
Mortal Kombat 1 will be available on September 19, 2023 for Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
