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Mortal Kombat 1

PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2023

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Quick resume

Discover a reborn Mortal Kombat™ Universe created by the Fire God Liu Kang. Mortal Kombat™ 1 ushers in a new era of the iconic franchise with a new fighting system, game modes, and fatalities!

Global score

72/100

Genres

Action, Fighting, Adventure

Pros

  • Stunning graphics and animations
  • Engaging and fresh combat mechanics
  • Compelling story mode with cinematic presentation
  • Large and fan-favorite character roster
  • Robust online multiplayer with ranked modes

Cons

  • Expensive dlc and microtransactions
  • Limited character customization
  • Some players find story confusing or campy
  • Invasions mode and grind can be frustrating
  • Performance issues on lower-end pcs

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players can choose characters, customize combos, and experiment with Kameo fighters, allowing some control over playstyle despite some fixed story elements."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game offers a high skill ceiling with combo mastery, strategic use of Kameos, and challenging AI, rewarding player skill and learning."

  • Competition
    4

    "Strong online multiplayer with ranked matches and leaderboards encourages comparison and competition among players."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Many players report long playtimes and habitual engagement, though some mention abandoning due to grind or microtransactions."

  • Cooperation
    1

    "While primarily a fighting game focused on 1v1, the Kameo system introduces a form of tactical cooperation between main and support fighters."

  • Creativity
    2

    "Customization is limited compared to previous entries, but players can create unique combos and experiment with Kameo pairings."

  • Domination
    2

    "Competitive online play involves asserting superiority, though no strong evidence of toxic domination; some friendly rivalry noted."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players use the game for stress relief and immersive fantasy combat, escaping real life through story and gameplay."

  • Expectation
    -3

    "Most players engage voluntarily out of personal interest and nostalgia rather than obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "The Kameo system and combo experimentation encourage trying new strategies and mechanics."

  • Exploration
    1

    "Some exploration in story mode and Invasions, but mostly familiar fighting arenas and repeated environments."

  • Expression
    1

    "Limited character customization options reduce self-expression, though some cosmetic choices and mods exist."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Strong fantasy elements with supernatural characters, gore, and a rebooted multiverse storyline."

  • Fellowship
    2

    "Community aspects exist through online multiplayer and shared fandom, though many players focus on solo or small group play."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop fighting skills, learn combos, and improve over time, supported by tutorials and challenges."

  • Health
    -4

    "Typical sedentary gaming experience with no physical activity components."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention during fights and story; not suited for passive or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -2

    "Social interactions are mostly competitive or casual; limited evidence of deep emotional connections."

  • Leadership
    -1

    "No significant leadership roles; players act individually or in small teams without formal authority."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through unlocking characters, cosmetics, and upgrades is a core motivator, though some criticize monetization."

  • Relaxation
    1

    "Some players find flow and enjoyment, but the game also involves tension and challenge, limiting pure relaxation."

  • Sensation
    4

    "High sensory stimulation from detailed graphics, gore, sound effects, and dynamic combat."

  • Status
    3

    "Online rankings and visible achievements provide social recognition and status among players."

  • Story
    3

    "Engaging cinematic story mode with character arcs and lore, though some find it campy or confusing."

  • Strategy
    4

    "Combat requires planning, timing, and tactical use of Kameos and combos, rewarding strategic thinking."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Fast-paced combat and suspenseful moments provide excitement and adrenaline."

  • Value
    -2

    "Many players criticize expensive DLC and microtransactions, reducing perceived value for money."

  • Violence
    5

    "Enjoyment of brutal combat, gore, and fatalities is central to the experience."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players focus on avoiding defeat and managing health in fights, emphasizing survival skills."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026