From Best to Worst: Our Mortal Kombat 1 Tier List
Mortal Kombat 1 has captivated gamers with its intense battles and iconic characters. With a roster of 23 unique fighters, determining which ones reign supreme can be a daunting task. Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the Mortal Kombat 1 tier list, showcasing the best fighters and shedding light on their strengths and weaknesses.
Understanding the Tier List
Before we dive into the rankings, let’s explore the methodology behind the Mortal Kombat 1 tier list. Created through a combination of tournament match data, pro-player opinions, and analysis of character attributes, this tier list serves as a guide to the current meta. However, it is important to note that the meta is constantly evolving, and future buffs and nerfs may impact the rankings.
The tier list encompasses six tiers: S+, S, A+, A, B, and C. Characters in the S tiers demonstrate exceptional dominance without relying heavily on Kameo assistance. On the other hand, characters in the lower tiers rely to varying degrees on the synergy between their abilities and their chosen Kameo characters.
Now, let’s explore the tiers and discover the powerhouses and underdogs of Mortal Kombat 1.
S+ Tier Fighters: Unmatched Dominance
The S+ tier represents the pinnacle of Mortal Kombat 1 fighters, showcasing unparalleled dominance and devastating prowess. These characters possess a lethal combination of powerful moves, relentless pressure, and exceptional combo potential. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout fighters in this tier.
Johnny Cage: Master of Combos and Range Control
Johnny Cage, the Hollywood star turned fighter, secures his position at the top of the S+ tier. Known for his varied combo potential and excellent range control, Cage is a force to be reckoned with. His signature move, the Nut Punch, delivers devastating force, while his Hype Meter enables extended combos through canceling into more attacks. Additionally, his classic green energy blasts keep the pressure on his opponents.
Kenshi: The Blind Warrior’s Telekinetic Fury
Despite his blindness, Kenshi wields telekinetic and psychokinetic powers along with his ancestral sword, Sento. This combination allows him to unleash devastating close-quarters and ranged attacks. Kenshi’s telekinetic slams crush his challengers, while his hovering sword unleashes a spirit that attacks separately during his combos, creating near-unblockable pressure. Peace is never an option when facing Kenshi!
Raiden: Earthrealm’s God of Thunder
Raiden, the god of thunder, exudes unmatched elemental prowess. His lightning-infused attacks, ranging from traps to teleportation, provide unrivaled space control and a formidable ranged threat. Even in close-quarters combat, Raiden’s lightning-infused punches shatter bones, making each connected attack brutally electrifying.
Liu Kang: The Fiery Martial Arts Master
Liu Kang, empowered by divine martial arts and pyrokinesis, scorches his challengers with fiery feet and flaming fists. With his blazing speed, Liu Kang utilizes fireballs to zone his opponents before unleashing devastating air juggles and lightning-fast combos. His new ability, Divine Immolation, inflicts severe burning anguish on his foes. Liu Kang’s accessibility and powerful toolkit make him a formidable choice for any player.
A+ Tier Fighters: Near the Pinnacle of Mortal Kombat 1
The A+ tier showcases fighters who possess exceptional strengths and formidable movesets but may require more development or synergy with Kameo characters to reach their full potential. Let’s explore some of these fighters and their unique attributes.
Shang Tsung: The Shape-Shifting Sorcerer
Shang Tsung, the shape-shifting sorcerer, holds immense potential as a fighter. With the ability to mimic his opponents’ moves, Shang Tsung can adapt to various playstyles. However, his complexity demands further exploration and mastery to unleash his true power. As the meta evolves, Shang Tsung may ascend even higher in the tier list.
Geras: Time Control and Tactical Brilliance
Geras, an underrated fighter, possesses the power to manipulate time and displays tactical brilliance in battle. With his time control abilities, Geras can disrupt his opponents’ strategies and seize control of the match. While he may be overlooked by some, skilled players can harness Geras’ potential and surprise their opponents in the Kombat League.
Kung Lao: The Hat-Wielding Trickster
Kung Lao, known for his hat-wielding prowess, showcases impressive abilities. Paired with his synergy with Goro, Kung Lao becomes a formidable force. However, he is somewhat reliant on his chosen Kameo character and lacks diverse options for starting combos. Skilled players can still utilize Kung Lao effectively, but opponents may find it easier to predict and counter his next move.
Sindel: The Queen of Zoning
Sindel, the queen of zoning, employs her powerful screams to control the battlefield. With her sonic waves, she can keep her opponents at bay and create opportunities for punishing attacks. Her zoning capabilities make her a formidable opponent for those who rely on close-quarters combat. Mastering Sindel’s zoning techniques can turn the tide in battles.
Smoke: The Elusive Enigma
Smoke, a master of surprise attacks, possesses meterless cancels that can catch opponents off guard. While these cancels add versatility to his moveset, players must be cautious of opponents who adapt to his tricks over time. Smoke’s reliance on mind games and mix-ups makes him a challenging character to master, but his potential for high-level play should not be underestimated.
A Tier Fighters: Strength and Versatility
In the A tier, we find fighters who possess outstanding abilities and versatile movesets. While slightly below the A+ tier, these fighters still offer formidable options and can hold their own against tough opponents. Let’s delve into the A tier fighters and their unique attributes.
Havik: Unleashing Chaos
Havik, the agent of chaos, brings his unpredictable fighting style to Mortal Kombat 1. With his unblockable launcher setup, Havik can catch opponents off guard and disrupt their game plans. Skilled players who appreciate the element of surprise will find Havik to be a rewarding choice, as his chaotic movements leave opponents struggling to anticipate his next move.
Li Mei: Projectiles and Setplay
Li Mei, a fighter armed with fantastic projectiles and strong setplay, offers a versatile playstyle. Her projectiles allow her to control the distance and create openings for her devastating combos. Skilled Li Mei players can utilize her extendable combos and rushdown tactics to overwhelm their opponents. With mastery and strategic planning, Li Mei can be a force to be reckoned with.
Kitana: The Princess with Deadly Fans
Kitana, the princess with deadly fans, has been buffed since the beta, solidifying her position in the A tier. Her improved buttons, combined with great projectiles and setups, make her a formidable opponent. Skilled Kitana players can utilize her fan juggling techniques to keep opponents off balance and control the pace of the fight.
B Tier Fighters: A Test of Skill
The B tier fighters, although slightly lower in the rankings, still offer rewarding gameplay experiences. These fighters may require additional effort to achieve success but can be formidable in the hands of skilled players who adapt to their unique combat styles. Let’s explore the B tier fighters and their distinct attributes.
Reiko: Master of Grapples
Reiko, a fighter known for his powerful grappling techniques, demands precision and timing. While he may not possess the same level of versatility as higher-ranked fighters, Reiko’s ability to seize control with well-executed grapples can turn the tide of battle. Skilled players who appreciate the art of grappling will find Reiko to be a satisfying choice.
Scorpion: Simplicity and Versatility
Scorpion, a beloved character in the Mortal Kombat series, offers a simple yet effective moveset. With his iconic spear and teleportation abilities, Scorpion can punish opponents and control the flow of the match. While he may lack the complexity of some higher-tier fighters, Scorpion’s accessibility makes him a popular choice for newcomers and seasoned players alike.
Mileena: A Game of Guessing
Mileena, with her strike/throw guessing game, provides a challenging playstyle. Her fantastic overheads and mix-up potential keep opponents on their toes. While Mileena requires a higher level of execution and prediction, skilled players who can read their opponents effectively will find her to be a rewarding choice.
Sub-Zero: Ice-Cold Attacks
Sub-Zero, the master of ice attacks, offers a mix of gimmicky moves and solid fundamentals. While he may have been nerfed since the beta, skilled Sub-Zero players can still utilize his icy arsenal to freeze opponents and create opportunities for devastating combos. Adaptability and creativity are key to mastering Sub-Zero’s unique playstyle.
C Tier Fighters: Embracing the Fun-Factor
In the C tier, we find fighters who may not match the strength of higher-tier characters but offer a fun and varied gameplay experience. These fighters may not excel in hyper-competitive scenarios but can still provide enjoyment for casual players and those seeking variety in their matches.
Baraka: Feral Fighting Style
Baraka, with his feral fighting style, offers a visually captivating and enjoyable playstyle. While he may not possess the same level of power as other fighters, Baraka’s unique moves and brutal attacks make him a fun choice for those who appreciate his savage nature.
Nitara: Aerial Assaults and Health Drain
Nitara, a fighter focused on aerial attacks and health-draining abilities, brings a distinct flavor to Mortal Kombat 1. While she may not match the power of higher-tier fighters, Nitara’s flashy fighting style and unique abilities provide a fun and dynamic experience for players looking to explore lesser-known characters.
Havik: Chaotic Movements and Self-Harming
Havik, the agent of chaos, embraces his chaotic nature with self-harming moves and unpredictable playstyle. While he may not possess the same level of power as higher-ranked fighters, Havik’s unpredictability and chaotic movements offer a refreshing and entertaining experience for players who enjoy a touch of madness in their matches.
Conclusion: Unleash Your Inner Fighter
As Mortal Kombat 1 continues to captivate gamers with its intense battles, the tier list serves as a valuable guide to navigate the vast roster of fighters. Whether you align yourself with the dominant powerhouses of the S+ tier or embrace the unique playstyles of the underdogs, Mortal Kombat 1 offers a diverse range of options to suit every player’s preferences.
Remember, the tier list represents a snapshot of the current meta and will evolve as the game progresses. Embrace the challenge, explore the strengths and weaknesses of each character, and unleash your inner fighter. Mortal Kombat 1 awaits your skill and determination on the battlefield!
