Unleashing the Thunder: Unraveling the Mythos of Raiden's Canon Journey in Mortal Kombat 1's New Universe

After more than 30 years of existence, the Mortal Kombat series, like any long-lasting franchise, has undergone significant changes that have greatly impacted its fictional universe. While fighting games are not necessarily known for their narratives, Mortal Kombat has consistently upheld a relatively robust storyline throughout its various installments, albeit one that can veer into the strange and fantastical. However, after three decades, it appears that a major reset is in order, which is precisely what Mortal Kombat 1 aims to achieve.

Continuing from where the Aftermath DLC campaign of Mortal Kombat 11 left off, the god-like figure Liu Kang, now known as the Fire God, has created an entirely new universe according to his own vision. His goal, after countless years of warfare and violence, is to establish a peaceful and harmonious realm free from such turmoil. Unfortunately, an unknown adversary emerges, threatening to disrupt this newfound tranquility. As the guardian of the universe, Liu Kang must unite with resurrected allies, including the previously immortal Raiden. While Raiden's current role may differ from his past appearances in the Mortal Kombat series, there are certain events from his history that could still hold relevance within this fresh timeline.

What Raiden's Canon Events Could Be In Mortal Kombat 1

From the very beginning, Raiden has held great influence in the narrative of Mortal Kombat. In the original trilogy, Raiden, as an Elder God, seeks out and trains two mortal warriors to defend Earthrealm in the brutal Mortal Kombat tournament, where the fate of all realms is determined. To protect Earthrealm, Raiden sacrifices his immortality, placing his trust in Liu Kang, a faith that is not in vain as Liu Kang emerges victorious and defeats Shao Kahn.

In Mortal Kombat 4, Raiden regains his Elder God status temporarily, only to relinquish it once again in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance. This happens when he learns of Liu Kang's demise at the hands of Quan Chi and Shang Tsung, and the refusal of the Elder Gods to intervene. This discovery leads Raiden down a dark path, leading to his decision to resurrect Liu Kang's lifeless body, believing it to be the only way to safeguard Earthrealm.

In this path, a fierce battle ensues with the formidable Shao Kahn. Just as Shao Kahn is about to deliver the final blow, Raiden successfully sends a message back in time to his past self. This alters the timeline, resulting in Liu Kang winning the tournament but accidentally dying while attempting to confront Raiden. Subsequently, Raiden is compelled to face a reanimated, revenant version of Liu Kang in Mortal Kombat X.

Fast forward to Mortal Kombat 11, Raiden acquires increased power by utilizing Shinnok's amulet. Recognizing this as a threat, Kronika, the god of time, seeks to erase Raiden from the timeline. However, in her attempt to do so, she brings his younger self and a few other Kombatants to the present as well. When Raiden uses the amulet and is confronted by a younger Liu Kang, he realizes that Kronika has manipulated every timeline to ensure that Liu Kang and Raiden always clash and never join forces. Defying this manipulation, Raiden combines both Liu Kangs and himself, creating Fire God Liu Kang, a character who ultimately resets the universe prior to the events of Mortal Kombat 1.

Raiden and Liu Kang's roles in Mortal Kombat 1 appear to be reversed in what fans have seen so far. This new universe portrays Raiden as a mortal while Liu Kang takes on the role of the god responsible for protecting the world. Additionally, it seems that Raiden will join forces with Liu Kang and potentially become the new champion of Earthrealm in this altered timeline. The significant event throughout all timelines revolves around the deep bond shared between Liu Kang and Raiden. An intriguing twist in the canon events of Mortal Kombat 1 could be the scenario where Raiden meets his demise at the hands of Liu Kang. Mortal Kombat 1 is scheduled for release on September 19, 2023, and will be available for Nintendo Switch, PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S platforms.