The Ultimate Showdown: Scorpion and Sub-Zero Unleashed in 'Mortal Kombat 2'

Highlights

Mortal Kombat 1 establishes a deeper narrative within the franchise, with Scorpion and Sub-Zero's storyline taking center stage in future conflicts.

The emphasis in Mortal Kombat 2 should be on the conflict between the Shirai Ryu and Lin Kuei clans, as it showcases their revamped origins and the significant ramifications on the newly established universe. The inclusion of a youthful Hanzo Hasashi in Mortal Kombat 1 provides a subtle indication of his pivotal involvement in the feud, as well as his journey of instruction alongside Scorpion and Smoke.

Mortal Kombat 1 is the latest installment in a highly acclaimed and enduring franchise within the fighting genre. While previous entries in the Mortal Kombat series have seen reboots, Mortal Kombat 1 sets itself apart by delving into a more comprehensive storyline. It serves as both a sequel and a complete reset of the universe established in Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath, offering devoted fans fresh interpretations of the characters' origins and motivations. The narratives surrounding Scorpion and Sub-Zero, in particular, are captivating and explosive, laying the groundwork for a complex and far-reaching conflict in the future. The events of Mortal Kombat 1 introduce a multitude of potential storylines, but the immediate consequences of Scorpion and Sub-Zero's choices make a strong case for their prominent roles in 'Mortal Kombat 2'.

The main focus of Mortal Kombat 1 revolves around a new timeline crafted by the Fire God Liu Kang from Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath. Intended to provide everlasting peace and prosperity, this timeline faces an insidious threat that seeks to resurrect past alliances and conflicts. In order to safeguard this new Earthrealm, Liu Kang assembles a team of fighters, which includes the Lin Kuei members and siblings Bi-Han, Kuai Liang, and Tomas Vrbada - better known as Sub-Zero, Scorpion, and Smoke, respectively. While the brothers have proven to be formidable warriors for Earthrealm, a dramatic twist in Mortal Kombat 1 compels them to choose opposing sides.

MK1's Scorpion and Sub-Zero Storyline Opens the Door to a Pivotal Conflict

In Mortal Kombat 1's eighth chapter, titled "Band of Brothers," Sub-Zero, Scorpion, and Smoke are assigned a mission to destroy Shang Tsung's Soul Stealers at Ying Fortress. As players assume the role of Sub-Zero, the eldest brother and leader of the Lin Kuei, they infiltrate the stronghold. Meanwhile, Scorpion and Sub-Zero venture deeper into the fortress while Smoke keeps watch outside. Despite triumphing over various formidable opponents, the duo gets captured by Shang Tsung, who reveals his primary plan.

Chapter 9 unveils Shang Tsung's offer to Sub-Zero in Mortal Kombat 1. The villain proposes that the Soul Stealers exist to power the Dragon King's Army, an army of statue-like warriors capable of granting dominion over Earthrealm to the Lin Kuei if Sub-Zero joins his cause. Sub-Zero accepts, leading to cries of betrayal from Scorpion. However, Scorpion manages to break free from his restraints and escapes Ying Fortress. He regroups with Smoke, informing him of Sub-Zero's betrayal. Together, they decide to abandon the Lin Kuei and establish their own clan, the Shirai Ryu, dedicated to defending Earthrealm.

The Shirai Ryu vs Lin Kuei Conflict Should Take Center Stage in 'Mortal Kombat 2'

The main campaign of Mortal Kombat 1 concludes with Scorpion and Sub-Zero, leaders of opposing clans, the Shirai Ryu and the Lin Kuei respectively. This ongoing conflict between the two clans has consistently provided the Mortal Kombat series with captivating storylines and the introduction of beloved characters. With the rebooted universe in Mortal Kombat 1 highlighting the origins of these clans, it would be fitting for the next installment in the series to focus on the escalating conflict between their leaders. This suggestion gains further support from the information disclosed in Mortal Kombat 1's Tower Mode endings.

Mortal Kombat 1's Tower Mode ending for Smoke introduces a significant figure in the rivalry between the Shirai Ryu and the Lin Kuei. A scene depicts Scorpion and Smoke training a fresh batch of recruits, with the introduction of a young Hanzo Hasashi. Dedicated fans recognize Hanzo as the original Scorpion, whose involvement in the conflict leads to the death and resurrection of Bi-Han as Noob Saibot. Mortal Kombat 2 could potentially explore Scorpion's mentorship of Hanzo, along with Smoke's role, and their early clashes with Bi-Han's Lin Kuei. Although the next title is expected to be released in a few years, fans may catch glimpses of the impending conflict through upcoming Mortal Kombat 1 DLCs that continue the narrative of these two brothers.

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