The Ultimate Guide to Uncovering Hidden Lore Gems in MK1

Highlights

Mortal Kombat 1 brings a fresh start to the franchise but still maintains connections to previous installments, adding nostalgia for longtime fans.

The game incorporates elements from the original Mortal Kombat storyline, like the iconic "Shang Tsung's Flesh Pits" stage, offering a comforting sense of familiarity during uncertain moments.

Furthermore, Mortal Kombat 1 cleverly pays tribute to the franchise's 3D era by playfully highlighting the impractical headwear worn by Ashrah, providing fans with comedic moments and a chance to celebrate the game's rich history.

In its 30-year history, Mortal Kombat has reached a point where a fresh start is necessary. With Mortal Kombat 1, NetherRealm Studios brings one of the most significant revamps to the franchise. Following the 2011 reboot and Mortal Kombat 11's Aftermath DLC, Mortal Kombat 1 introduces a new era with Fire God Liu Kang. Although there are still connections to previous installments, many characters undergo significant changes.

While Mortal Kombat 1 focuses on new beginnings, it also highlights the idea that some things remain unchanged amidst transformation. Throughout the game's captivating campaign, both heroes and enemies find themselves repeating history in various ways. These references serve as nostalgia-inducing moments for long-time players and provide a sense of familiarity amidst the campaign's prevailing uncertainty.

Shang Tsung's Flesh Pits

In the early stages of Mortal Kombat 1's campaign, the main characters find themselves trapped in the sinister laboratory of the notorious Shang Tsung. After succumbing to an attack by the Tarkat-infected Mileena, they are forcefully thrown into the depths of the sorcerer's basement, where his abominable experiments are concealed from prying eyes. The sight of Tsung's true laboratory shocks Johnny Cage, leading him to draw a parallel with a film titled "The Flesh Pits". Despite its seemingly reminiscent of cheesy horror movies, this reference actually alludes to the original name of Tsung's laboratory and a legendary Mortal Kombat stage. Although the name may have changed, the essence of this stage remains undeniably intact.

The Soulnado

During his new era, Fire God Liu Kang deliberately weakened some of MK's villains. Despite this, Shang Tsung and Quan Chi managed to regain their magical abilities. In their quest to conquer Outworld, Quan Chi initiated the construction of soul tornados, known as soulnados, to empower the Dragon Army. As players progress through MK1's campaign, they encounter several of these soulnados. However, this is not the first time that MK veterans have encountered such phenomena. Soulnados have been witnessed on multiple occasions, most notably during the birth of Ermac in MK9.

Ashrah's Impractical Headwear

In the 3D era of the Mortal Kombat franchise, Mortal Kombat 1 introduced numerous new fighters, one of which was Ashrah. Ashrah's design included a large and impractical white hat, which the game playfully mocks. During the campaign, as the protagonists gather disguises to navigate through Outworld unnoticed, Ashrah humorously replaces her old hat with a similarly ridiculous one. This inside joke gives fans something to enjoy.

Mortal Kombat has always honored its history and frequently references past installments in each game. Mortal Kombat 1 continues this tradition, as NetherRealm Studios remains true to its origins. The future direction of Mortal Kombat may be uncertain, but fans eagerly anticipate NetherRealm's upcoming DLC plans. Kombat Pack 1 has already generated excitement through the MK1 campaign, leaving fans eager for its release. If story DLC is part of the future plans, fans can expect even more nods to the classic Mortal Kombat games.

Mortal Kombat 1 is available now on PC, PS5, Switch, and Xbox Series X/S.