The Ultimate Guide to Unlocking Iconic Mortal Kombat Skins in MK1

Unlockables have always been a significant element in fighting video games. They offer players the chance to obtain concept art, bonus stages, additional music tracks, and most notably, alternate costumes. A good fighting game will provide players with a wide range of unlockable content to strive for. The Mortal Kombat franchise is no exception, as each game in its history has had a multitude of hidden content that can only be unlocked by overcoming various challenges and achieving milestones. Although the approach may differ slightly this time, Mortal Kombat 1 is expected to have a generous amount of unlockables.

A month ago, Ed Boon from NetherRealm Studios confirmed that the beloved Krypt mode will not be making a comeback in Mortal Kombat 1. The Krypt mode has become more intricate with each installment, allowing fans to use in-game currency to unlock a plethora of items, including numerous costumes for each character. However, even without the Krypt, players can still anticipate a wealth of unlockables in Mortal Kombat 1. As the game pays homage to the series' origins, it is reasonable to assume that there will be a substantial number of alternate costumes inspired by previous Mortal Kombat entries. Nevertheless, only a select few are expected to be included.

Dark Raiden

Cyber Smoke

Dark Raiden, a recurring character in the Mortal Kombat series, is known for his occasional moments of losing control. This alternate version of the Elder God is often portrayed with gray skin, red eyes, and dark attire, typically in black with gold accents. While Raiden's character undergoes a significant transformation in Mortal Kombat 1 as a result of Fire God Liu Kang's influence, it shouldn't hinder the possibility of having an alternate skin inspired by his previous edgier appearances.

While fans were anticipating the inclusion of iconic characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Raiden, and Kitana in Mortal Kombat 1, they were pleasantly surprised by the significant role played by the gray Lin Kuei ninja known as Smoke. Making his playable debut in Mortal Kombat 3, Smoke appeared in his cyborg form, a look that has become an alternate costume in almost every subsequent installment of the game. Given Mortal Kombat 1's focus on paying homage to the series' origins, having a Cyber Smoke alternate skin is absolutely essential.

Dark Empress Kitana

Ronin Kenshi

: Kitana's Dark Empress outfit, which first appeared in Mortal Kombat X, has quickly become a favorite among fans. In the game's storyline, after Kitana is killed in Mortal Kombat 2011, she becomes a revenant, along with her sometimes love interest, Liu Kang. Both of them are then compelled to serve as the undead minions of Quan Chi. However, when Scorpion eliminates Quan Chi, Liu Kang and Kitana are liberated from their revenant forms. They seize the opportunity and decide to rule the Netherrealm together as the emperor and empress. Similar to the Dark Raiden skin, Dark Empress Kitana possesses gray skin, dons black attire, and features striking red, glowing eyes.

Kenshi's Ronin alternate costume, exclusive to Mortal Kombat X, is undoubtedly one of the franchise's finest. Its absence in Mortal Kombat 1 would have been a disservice, especially considering the character's significant role in the storyline this time. True to its name, this skin presents the beloved blind swordsman with a remarkable samurai transformation, featuring authentic armor, a mask, and a face wrap.

Injustice Scorpion

Scorpion's Injustice design, although not originally from a previous Mortal Kombat game, is considered one of the character's most distinctive. It would be highly desirable to incorporate this design into Mortal Kombat 1. While this skin was already included in Mortal Kombat X, it would be fantastic to witness an enhanced rendition of the costume, featuring subtle modifications to maintain its modern appeal. Mark your calendars for the release of Mortal Kombat 1 on September 19, available on PC, PS5, Switch, and Xbox Series X/S.