Unveiling Mortal Kombat 1's Epic Timeline Overhaul: Uncover the Riveting Evolution of Every Character's Origin

Highlights

Revamping the franchise, Mortal Kombat 1 breathes new life into the series by reshaping its timeline and unveiling fresh backgrounds for its cast. This bold approach caters to both loyal enthusiasts and newcomers, striking a balance between the cherished and the unknown.

The revised origins of the characters in Mortal Kombat 1 offer an invigorating yet familiar narrative. The modifications made to Raiden, Kung Lao, Sub-Zero, and Scorpion bring captivating surprises and contribute to an engaging storyline that fans will appreciate.

With an expansive lineup of characters, both familiar faces and fresh additions, the game presents distinctive storylines and character growth. Witness Raiden's unexpected transition from a farmer and Mileena's poignant battle against the Tarkat disease, as Mortal Kombat 1 unfolds a tapestry of intricate character arcs that enrich the lore and enhance the game's complexity.

NetherRealm Studios reaches new heights of creativity and experimentation with Mortal Kombat 1. Breaking away from the established timeline of the previous games, this latest installment provides a clean slate for the iconic franchise. Serving as a fresh start after the events of Mortal Kombat 11's Aftermath DLC, the game introduces Fire God Liu Kang's new era, allowing for a seamless transition.

In this reimagined timeline, Fire God Liu Kang sets the stage for a period of tranquility in the realms. Earthrealm is no longer threatened by invasion, and the brutal dismemberment of its warriors is a thing of the past. However, the most significant changes lie within the revised backstories of MK1's fighters. While familiar faces return, their origins have been reworked, offering a unique yet familiar narrative. This blend of innovation and familiarity makes Mortal Kombat 1 a captivating experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Raiden

Kung Lao

Raiden, once known as the thunder god and defender of Earthrealm, has assumed a humbler role as a mere farmer. He enjoys a close friendship with Kung Lao and only regains his electrifying abilities when the Fire God, Liu Kang, grants him the amulet that Raiden has famously wielded in previous Mortal Kombat games. In this alternate storyline, Raiden essentially fills the void left by Liu Kang in the narrative of Mortal Kombat 1, now that Liu Kang has assumed the duty of protecting Earthrealm.

Kung Lao remains true to his portrayal in previous MK games. He shares the humble occupation of a farmer with Raiden, while honing his unique expertise in combat by crafting his iconic bladed hat following a fierce encounter with Sub-Zero. Despite his brash and overconfident nature, traits that have been displayed in the past, he undeniably occupies a prominent role as one of Earthrealm's most accomplished martial artists.

Sub-Zero

Scorpion

In Mortal Kombat 1, the character Sub-Zero takes a nostalgic turn for dedicated fans. This iteration of Sub-Zero, known as Bi-Han, represents the original version before Kuai Liang's appearance in the prior lore. As the grandmaster of Lin Kuei during MK1, Sub-Zero leads the group in collaboration with his comrades, Scorpion and Smoke. He retains his renowned ice-based abilities and plays a prominent role in MK1's storyline by supporting Liu Kang in safeguarding Earthrealm.

In MK1's reworked timeline, Scorpion undergoes significant transformations. Unlike the previous lore where he was Hanzo Hasashi, he is now Kuai Liang, the second Sub-Zero. Instead of harboring a deep hatred for Sub-Zero and the Lin Kuei, Scorpion is now Sub-Zero's brother and represents the clan with immense honor. The usual tragic origin story of Scorpion is also altered in this timeline. The Shirai Ryu, the ninja clan to which he belongs, do not yet exist. Consequently, they are not annihilated by the Lin Kuei, and Scorpion himself is not undead. Instead, he finds himself entangled in conflict within the Lin Kuei due to Sub-Zero's increasingly ambitious nature as the grandmaster.

Smoke

Johnny Cage

The source of Smoke's powers in MK1 undergoes a significant transformation. Rather than possessing an innate ability to manipulate smoke, the Lin Kuei ninja now relies on smoke-based magic. Additionally, he incorporates the use of a karambit knife in combat, representing a novel addition to Smoke's arsenal.

In Mortal Kombat 1, Johnny Cage starts over from scratch, leaving behind his role in the Special Forces to pursue his acting career once again. However, NetherRealm has changed his character considerably, presenting him as a struggling actor who is facing financial difficulties. Despite his ongoing quest for fame, Johnny is no longer the superficial attention-seeker he once was. Instead, he has become a much more relatable character who is willing to embrace his heroic side.

Kenshi

Mileena

In the previous storyline, Kenshi had inherited extraordinary psychokinetic abilities and engaged in a fierce feud with Shang Tsung due to the sorcerer being responsible for his loss of sight. However, in MK1, Kenshi is driven by a different motivation, which is to restore his family's honor following their association with the Yakuza. A significant aspect of this mission involves reclaiming possession of his ancestral blade, known as Sento, which happens to be in the possession of Johnny Cage. After a initial confrontation, an unexpected bond forms between Johnny and Kenshi, evolving into an unlikely bromance. As the story progresses, Kenshi experiences a tragic incident that renders him blind, but he is bestowed with his telekinetic powers once again, all thanks to Johnny returning Sento to its rightful owner.

In MK1, NetherRealm took a different approach with Mileena, who is considered another iconic character in Mortal Kombat. Previously, she was a clone of Kitana combined with Tarkatan DNA, created by Shang Tsung. However, in MK1, the storyline depicts Mileena as the legitimate daughter of Sindel and the older sister of Kitana. Despite this change, Mileena still maintains her Tarkatan connection. Instead of being a distinct race, there is now the Tarkat disease, which Mileena meticulously conceals so as not to jeopardize her position as the heir to Outworld's throne.

Kitana

Sindel

: Kitana, once an unwavering assassin under the command of Shao Kahn, now faithfully stands beside her sister, Mileena. Unlike her previous self in an alternate timeline, she possesses a notable humility and embraces the heroes of Earthrealm, exhibiting a newfound receptiveness towards the entirety of the Mortal Kombat tournament. In terms of weaponry, Kitana skillfully wields her renowned fans with their mesmerizing blue blades, executing precise and calculated strikes.

Sindel's portrayal in MK1 marks a significant departure from the previous MK lore. Formerly known as the queen of Edenia who had a fluctuating moral compass, she now assumes the role of a dutiful queen in Outworld. No longer subservient to Shao Kahn, Sindel now holds sway over General Shao and fearlessly asserts herself against the warmonger. She exhibits a strong sense of protectiveness towards her daughters, Mileena and Kitana, and goes to great lengths to safeguard Mileena's illness from public knowledge.

General Shao

Reiko

Shao Kahn's position in Fire God Liu Kang's new era undergoes a notable transformation as he experiences one of the most significant demotions. Now serving as a general in Outworld's army, General Shao continues to exhibit much of his counterpart's fiery temperament. He harbors no affection for Earthrealm's champions or Sindel's dominion, resolutely opposing both. Additionally, he brandishes a formidable axe as opposed to his iconic hammer, cementing his status as an imposing and formidable presence.

Reiko, an iconic 3D-era MK fighter, makes a striking comeback in Mortal Kombat 1, marking his long-awaited return as a playable character since Mortal Kombat Armageddon. Previously shrouded in mystery, Reiko's enigmatic persona sparked speculation among fans, who pondered whether he could be the elusive Shao Kahn himself. Building upon this intriguing connection, MK1 delves deeper into their intricate relationship. In the new era of Fire God Liu Kang, Reiko emerges as General Shao's unyielding second-in-command, standing by his side as they embark on a relentless campaign against Sindel.

Rain

Li Mei

Rain, a formidable warrior in MK1, distinguishes himself from others by possessing and utilizing his powers from a different source. Previously revered as a demigod with the ability to manipulate water in earlier MK games, he has now evolved into a powerful mage who has honed his expertise in the art of water-based magic. Despite this transformation, his abilities remain largely unchanged, and he continues to pose a threat to Outworld's sovereignty due to his notorious reputation.

Similar to Reiko, Li Mei is a fighter from the 3D-era who has been absent from Mortal Kombat rosters for a considerable amount of time. In her previous backstory, Li Mei and her people were enslaved by the treacherous duo of Shang Tsung and Quan Chi. Her soul was forcefully taken from her, but later rescued by the wise Bo' Rai Cho. In the updated version, Li Mei plays a more significant role in MK1, assuming the position of the First Constable of Sun Do, Outworld's capital city, when players encounter her. Additionally, she has a tense relationship with Sindel and the Umgadi protectors of the royal family, as she led the Umgadi during the assassination of King Jerrod.

Tanya

Tanya's role in MK1 has significantly expanded compared to her previous appearances. In the past, she was mostly portrayed as antagonistic, but now she proudly leads the Umgadi. Additionally, Tanya embarks on a secret romantic relationship with Mileena, which they must keep hidden due to the Umgadi's strict rules regarding chastity.

Ashrah

NetherRealm revamped Ashrah's backstory, clarifying her origins. Previously, she was known for wavering between good and evil, and her role in the larger MK narrative was minimal. In MK1, Ashrah shines as a heroic figure, driven to find Quan Chi while on a demon-hunting mission and striving to free her shadow sisters. Moreover, she undergoes a purification of her own demonic soul, symbolizing her transformation. Interestingly, the iconic bulky hat is absent in her appearance in MK1, which pays homage to the traditional lore.

Reptile

Reptile's presence in MK1 transforms certain characters into more sympathetic figures, shifting their roles from simple antagonists to fully developed heroes. In previous MK games, Reptile's story revolved around his desperate search for fellow members of his reptilian race, leading him to align with Shao Kahn in hopes of finding them. However, in MK1, the tables turn as Reptile is actually ostracized by his own people due to his shapeshifting abilities. Enslaved by Shang Tsung, Reptile begrudgingly joins Liu Kang's champions after learning that the sorcerer has killed his family, which is the sole reason why he remains in servitude to this cruel villain.

Baraka

In the realm of Mortal Kombat, Baraka, much like Reptile, undergoes a transformation from henchman to a force fighting for righteousness. Initially portrayed as a savage and cannibalistic ally of Shao Kahn, MK1 brings a newfound depth to Baraka's character. Unlike his original portrayal as a member of the Tarkatan race, Baraka now hails from Outworld and grapples with the debilitating Tarkat disease. Once a prosperous merchant with a loving family, this menacing affliction stripped him of everything, transforming him into the leader of a community of outcasts plagued by Tarkat's torment.

Nitara

Havik

In Mortal Kombat 1, Nitara, the vampiric character, assumes a different, more responsible role. She is given the mission of rescuing her realm, Vaeternus, from impending famine. This stands in stark contrast to her previous portrayal in which she aimed to free Vaeternus from the control of Shao Kahn and Shang Tsung, thus severing its ties with Outworld. Additionally, Nitara is now more closely associated with the antagonists of MK1, whereas in earlier games she maintained a mostly neutral stance.

Havik's portrayal remains largely consistent with previous iterations, albeit with subtle alterations to highlight the significance of his motives. In both timelines, Havik embodies the role of an anarchist, determined to unleash chaos within Orderrealm. However, in the original Mortal Kombat game, there is a heightened emphasis on the political aspect. Havik perceives the laws of Orderrealm as unjust, and following his mistreatment over a minor transgression, he resolves to dismantle the entire system.

Geras

Shang Tsung

Geras undergoes a complete transformation in MK1, shifting from a loyal follower of Kronika to a dedicated ally of Liu Kang. His primary responsibility now is safeguarding the hourglass, ensuring the smooth running of Liu Kang's delicate new era, and offering guidance to the Fire God on any irregularities. Despite this change, Geras retains his wisdom and grace, remaining a formidable opponent with his exceptional time-based abilities.

Fire God Liu Kang, a relentless antagonist in the previous Mortal Kombat timeline, was determined to prevent Shang Tsung from causing harm to the realms in this new era. Initially, in MK1, this notorious character assumes the role of a deceitful con artist, peddling counterfeit magic and fraudulent remedies—quite a departure from his accustomed position of authority. Nevertheless, Liu Kang manages to reclaim his mighty abilities after an encounter with a mysterious patron, gradually propelling himself back to his former perilous and dominant stature.

Liu Kang

Liu Kang, the architect of MK1's revised timeline, remains largely unchanged in MK11. He embraces his role as the protector of the realms with humility, exercising caution to not intrude excessively in others' affairs. However, he takes action when the Mortal Kombat tournament ensues, rallying his champions and venturing into Outworld. Throughout this new era, Liu Kang employs his wisdom to effectively navigate the escalating conflict.

Mortal Kombat 1 presents an awe-inspiring narrative of fresh beginnings and unwavering truths, placing its diverse roster of fighters at the heart of the story. Despite NetherRealm Studios taking bold risks in altering well-known Kombatants, they succeed in maintaining their core identity from previous iterations. With this strong foundation, the studio has ample potential for a sequel or Mortal Kombat 1 story DLC.

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