Mortal Kombat 1 revolutionizes the Mortal Kombat game franchise with significant changes across multiple aspects. Alongside alterations to the storyline, character designs, and new Kameo systems, the game introduces noteworthy updates to both PVE and the single-player experience. Notably, the Towers of Time have been replaced by the Invasion Mode, offering players a captivating game mode with the potential for hours of immersive gameplay. However, the current state of the Invasion Mode falls slightly short due to its tedious and grind-heavy nature. Fortunately, making a few minor adjustments can transform it into an exceptional game mode, enhancing the replayability of Mortal Kombat 1 beyond its online multiplayer.
5 Remove Super Armor
This is the game's biggest flaw. Fighting games, particularly MK1, revolve around combos. However, this mechanic completely contradicts that. Super Armor is an exhausted and frustrating feature that should either be entirely removed, restricted to specific fights, or redesigned.
With Super Armor, opponents can simply overpower a player's attack. As a result, executing combos or even basic sequences becomes extremely challenging. This undermines one of the main motivations for players to engage in fighting games. Although Super Armor is not inherently flawed as a game mechanic, its excessive use in Invasion Mode detracts from the overall enjoyment.
4 Adjust The Krazy Modifiers
Modifiers have long been incorporated into NetherRealm games like Injustice 2 and MK11 to enhance excitement and individuality in fights. They add a strategic element to PVE combat, requiring players to utilize consumables accordingly and adapt to the specific modifier in each round.
Invasion Mode generally features solid modifiers that strike a good balance by not being overly frequent. However, there are a few modifiers that require adjustments as they can be too extreme. For example, one modifier causes the entire screen to go black for a few seconds, which can be particularly challenging for novice players. Another modifier reverses a player's inputs, necessitating a period of adjustment. While these modifiers can offer enjoyable challenges at times, they may benefit from minor nerfs. Reducing their duration or introducing rare consumables to counteract them could be potential solutions.
3 More Unique Challenges
MK1 is a relatively new game, so it's understandable that the balance isn't perfect yet and there are adjustments to be made. NetherRealm Studios has a great track record of releasing DLCs and expansion packs, so there's no doubt that they will add more content to the game, especially for single-player mode. Currently, there are already some mysteries surrounding certain tasks in the mode, but the more activities players have besides spamming battles, the better.
Though players primarily engage in Invasion Mode for loot, adding some changes would make it a more enjoyable experience. One suggestion to enhance Invasion Mode is to introduce more unique challenges or mini-games. While there are already a few present, incorporating something like Puzzle Kombat from MK: Deception would not only improve the game mode, but also give players a nostalgic trip. Additionally, they could include challenges that require players to perform specific combos during fights or avoid blocking projectiles for a whole round in exchange for extra XP or coins. These small additions can make the mode feel more exciting and intuitive.
2 Improve The XP gains
Progression in this game is closely tied to the accumulation of experience points. Both Kameos and the main characters can enhance their fighting skills through the invasion mode, resulting in increased mastery levels. These higher levels unlock various rewards, such as gear, skins, and brutalities. While the mastery system is well-designed, the rate of experience gain in invasion mode can be somewhat insufficient.
Furthermore, higher levels also provide an advantage in more challenging battles, which is especially important considering the elemental damage system. If players choose a low-level fighter solely based on its elemental type, they may find themselves at a disadvantage. This limitation could discourage players from diversifying their character selections. Increasing the rate of experience gain would help alleviate this issue. Additionally, it would motivate players to prioritize elemental damage types rather than relying solely on one character to overpower the entire campaign.
1 Add A Krypt Zone
MK1 is an excellent game, but it lacks certain PvE features. It is disappointing to see that the Krypt, which was an amazing feature in MKX and MK11, is missing. The Krypt provided players with a relaxing environment to explore hidden lore and references, while also allowing them to spend money on cosmetics and unlock various chests and pathways. It was a refreshing break from the usual gameplay. Although Invasion Mode does not have a Krypt, it could be a valuable addition. It could function as a central hub world where players can engage in different puzzles and challenges to obtain more loot.
While MK1 does have a Shrine, it is quite basic and does not offer much. It may be a demanding task to include a Krypt in the near future, but it would certainly be a valuable addition.
Mortal Kombat 1 is available to play on PS5, Xbox X/S, PC, and Nintendo Switch.