NRS changed Mortal Kombat as we knew it…
The Mortal Kombat series has long been a staple in the fighting game genre, but it wasn’t until NetherRealm Studios (NRS) took over in 2011 that the franchise truly evolved. Each new title has built on the core foundation of brutal combat, creative finishers, and iconic characters. But which Mortal Kombat games stand above the rest? Below, we rank the best Mortal Kombat games from the NRS era, considering gameplay mechanics, story modes, and overall impact on the franchise.
7. Mortal Kombat: Arcade Kollection (2011)
A Nostalgic Collection of Mortal Kombat Games
Why It’s Worth Mentioning:
- Original Trilogy: This collection features the classic Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat II, and Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 in one package.
- Retro Appeal: For fans of the original Mortal Kombat games, the Arcade Kollection offers a nostalgic trip back to where it all began.
Though not part of the modern NRS era, the Arcade Kollection serves as a reminder of the series’ origins and is a must-have for die-hard fans of the classic games.
6. Mortal Kombat 11 (2019)
A Visually Stunning Mortal Kombat Game
While Mortal Kombat 11 introduced refined gameplay mechanics and customizable characters, it falls slightly behind in terms of impact.
Why It’s One of the Best Mortal Kombat Games:
- Kustom Variations: Players could tailor their fighters with a variety of abilities, skins, and gear, creating a more personalized experience.
- Strategic Gameplay: With a focus on defense and zoning, MK11 added a more strategic layer to the gameplay.
- Graphics: MK11 is one of the most visually impressive entries in the series, offering detailed animations and lifelike environments.
Although MK11 is graphically stunning and packed with content, it doesn’t quite have the same legacy-defining impact as earlier titles.
5. Mortal Kombat X (2015)
One of the Most Innovative Mortal Kombat Games
Mortal Kombat X was a major step forward for the series, offering new characters and mechanics that deepened the gameplay.
Why It’s a Memorable Mortal Kombat Game:
- Character Variations: Each character came with three unique fighting styles, offering varied gameplay for each match.
- New Characters: The game introduced a new generation of fighters, including Cassie Cage and Jacqui Briggs, while maintaining classic characters like Scorpion and Sub-Zero.
- Cinematic Story Mode: The continuation of the Mortal Kombat 9 storyline kept fans hooked with its cinematic approach.
Though MKX isn’t at the very top of this list, it remains one of the best Mortal Kombat games for its innovation and depth.
4. Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath (2020)
Expanding the Mortal Kombat Universe
Aftermath builds on Mortal Kombat 11, offering new story content, characters, and game modes.
Why It’s One of the Best Mortal Kombat Games:
- Extended Story Mode: The expanded storyline focuses on Shang Tsung’s machinations, giving players more narrative content to enjoy.
- New Fighters: Aftermath introduced new characters like Fujin, Sheeva, and Robocop, adding fresh gameplay mechanics and strategies.
- Classic Finishers: The return of Friendships provided a comedic contrast to the otherwise violent finishers.
Though it’s an expansion, Aftermath enhanced the Mortal Kombat 11 experience, making it a standout title in the series.
3. Mortal Kombat XL (2016)
Ultimate Edition of Mortal Kombat X
MKXL is the definitive version of Mortal Kombat X, offering all the DLC characters and updates in one complete package.
Why It’s a Top Mortal Kombat Game:
- Complete Roster: Featuring characters like Predator, Alien, and Leatherface, Mortal Kombat XL provides the most comprehensive version of MKX.
- Enhanced Online Play: The improved netcode made online matches smoother and more competitive.
- Gory Fatalities: MKXL is notorious for its brutal fatalities and gruesome X-ray attacks, pushing the series’ signature violence to new heights.
This edition remains a fan favorite, offering a robust roster and improved gameplay mechanics.
2. Mortal Kombat 1 (2023)
The Next Best Mortal Kombat Game
MK1 serves as a soft reboot for the series, reimagining classic characters and lore while taking advantage of next-gen technology.
Why It’s One of the Best Mortal Kombat Games:
- Rebooted Timeline: The narrative takes bold creative steps, with Liu Kang as the Keeper of Time, reshaping the entire Mortal Kombat universe.
- Kameo Fighters: The new Kameo system adds a strategic layer, allowing players to summon a secondary character to assist during fights.
- Stunning Graphics: Built for next-gen consoles, MK1 boasts the most visually stunning graphics in the series, from character models to detailed environments.
- Fresh Story Mode: The new timeline gives fans a fresh narrative while keeping the core of what makes Mortal Kombat great.
Mortal Kombat 1 breathes new life into the series while offering one of the most visually impressive and mechanically deep experiences in the Mortal Kombat games lineup.
1. Mortal Kombat (2011) (Mortal Kombat 9)
Best Mortal Kombat Game Ever
When it comes to the best Mortal Kombat game of the NRS era, Mortal Kombat 9 (2011) stands at the top. This game rebooted the series, taking players back to the events of the original trilogy while introducing modern gameplay mechanics that set a new standard for fighting games.
Why It’s the Best Mortal Kombat Game:
- Franchise Reboot: MK9 retells the classic storyline from the original Mortal Kombat trilogy, bringing back fan-favorite characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Raiden, while rebooting the timeline for a new generation of gamers.
- X-Ray Moves: A game-changer for the series, X-ray moves showed brutal, bone-crunching internal damage, adding a visceral edge to the gameplay.
- Return to 2D Gameplay: The series returned to its roots with 2D fighting, after years of experimenting with 3D mechanics.
- Tag Team Battles: Mortal Kombat 9 introduced a new tag team mode, offering a fresh twist to traditional one-on-one combat.
- Iconic Roster: With over 30 fighters, MK9 featured one of the most diverse and beloved rosters in Mortal Kombat history.
This game revitalized the Mortal Kombat franchise, making it not only one of the best Mortal Kombat games but also a genre-defining title in fighting games.
Conclusion
When looking at the best Mortal Kombat games, Mortal Kombat 9 (2011) stands out as the crown jewel of the NRS era, combining classic nostalgia with modern mechanics. Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) follows closely behind, offering a fresh take on the series with next-gen graphics and a reimagined timeline. From cinematic story modes to innovative gameplay mechanics, each of these Mortal Kombat games has contributed to the enduring legacy of the franchise, solidifying its place as one of the best fighting game series of all time.
