Unveiling the Changes in Mortal Kombat 1's Latest Patch

Article Key Points

Mortal Kombat 1's first major update brings a plethora of non-gameplay updates, including bug fixes, move list corrections, new content, and improved quality of life features.

The game update brings significant balance adjustments, specifically targeting the Kameo fighters. Players will need to adapt their playstyle and character selections accordingly. While several character-specific changes have minimal impact, certain characters such as Baraka, Geras, Havik, Mileena, and Raiden will experience nerfs that greatly enhance damage scaling. However, the overall impact of these balance changes is yet to be determined.

The first major update for Mortal Kombat 1 included an array of non-gameplay improvements. Alongside vital balance adjustments, this update introduced exciting new content and enhanced the overall user experience. The following additions were made:

Bug Fixes

Move List Corrections

Halloween Fatality added to the store

A Halloween variation of Johnny Cage's Mansion

A Wu Shi Academy Evening Variation

The shrine can now be used more rapidly

Faster movement in Invasion Mode

Adjusted camera positions in Kustomize Photo Mode

Leaderboards for Klassic Towers

Added voice chat options

In-game ping and connection quality indicators

Mortal Kombat 1's First Balance Patch Changed The Game Drastically

In addition to introducing the first paid fatality in Mortal Kombat 1, along with some Halloween-themed content and quality-of-life improvements, the latest update brings significant balance adjustments to the game. While certain changes pertain to specific characters, many of them have a broader impact on the game's systems. The most notable modifications pertain to the way Kameo Fighters are balanced. Executing a Kameo move twice within the same combo now results in an extended refresh time. The recovery rate of Kameo fighters varies depending on the specific fighter, necessitating players to adapt their playstyle based on both their preferred characters and the recent update. Although Kameo Fighters have also received individual adjustments, overall, their power has been reduced by the patch.

Mortal Kombat 1's First Balance Update Favors Nerfs

Mortal Kombat 1's character balancing primarily focused on introducing nerfs rather than buffs. One of the most controversial changes was the nerfs applied to Cyrax. The issue with nerfs is that they give players a sense of loss and disappointment by reducing their power and abilities. Numerous players of the game voiced their dissatisfaction, claiming that the nerfs went too far and were unfairly aimed at certain characters. NetherRealm's decision might have been influenced by the game's emphasis on delivering high damage. Mortal Kombat 1 is a game where skilled players can swiftly conclude a match within two to four successful interactions. Although it is generally preferable to buff characters to match those that are initially overpowered, the limited scope within MK1 made it challenging to implement such adjustments.

MK1's Balance Patch Has Some Big Winners and Losers

The character-specific changes in Mortal Kombat 1 have had varying levels of impact. Ashrah, Johnny Cage, Kenshi, Li Mei, Rain, Reiko, Scorpion, Sindel, Shang Tsung, Smoke, and Sub-Zero all saw minor adjustments that did not significantly affect their overall strength. General Shao received bug fixes that made him a more consistent character, resulting in a slight buff. Baraka, Geras, Havik, Mileena, and Raiden, on the other hand, received nerfs, particularly in the form of increased damage scaling. Baraka, in particular, lost his ability to crouch below certain attacks that he was previously immune to. Nitara, Kitana, Kung Lao, and Reptile received slight buffs. Notably, Nitara's Blood Sacrifice ability had its damage reduced by 90%, making her look stronger after the patch.

The first balance patch in Mortal Kombat 1 has left the game in an interesting state. While most balance changes were relatively minor for non-Kameo fighters, the impact of the broader nerfs to the Kameo system has not been fully seen yet. Some of the weaker fighters rely heavily on Kameo abilities, so it is possible that the nerfs to the Kameo system will have unforeseen effects on top-tier fighters. As Mortal Kombat's first game with an assist feature, it may take time for the developers to balance it properly. Despite the potential difficulties, Kameos will likely still be featured in Mortal Kombat 2, as they distinguish this new era from previous entries in the franchise.

Mortal Kombat 1 is a highly anticipated fighting game developed by NetherRealm Studios. It is set to release on September 19, 2023, and will be available on PC, PS5, Switch, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. The game is published by Warner Bros. Games and falls under the genre of fighting games. With its intense gameplay and mature content, Mortal Kombat 1 has received an ESRB rating of M for Mature 17+, due to its depiction of blood and gore, intense violence, and strong language. It offers approximately 7 hours of gameplay, and its Metascore stands at 84.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I am excited about the latest patch for Mortal Kombat 1. The balance changes are significant and will change how the game is played. I am particularly interested in the nerfs to the Kameo fighters, as they have been dominating the tournament scene. I think these changes will make the game more balanced and competitive.

However, I am concerned about the nerfs to Cyrax. He was already a weak character, and these nerfs will make him even worse. I think NetherRealm should have buffed him instead of nerfing him. Overall, I think the latest patch for Mortal Kombat 1 is a positive step. The balance changes will make the game more competitive, and the new content is exciting. I can't wait to see how the game evolves in the future.