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Mortal Kombat 1
Critics Consensus (Play It)
Mortal Kombat 1’s narrative doesn’t always hit the mark, but its core fighting mechanics and range of modes on offer are excellent.
Game Info
A new era has begun. It’s In Our Blood. Discover a reborn Mortal Kombat Universe created by 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!
0%
Recommended
0%
Average Score
Total Reviews: 102
Nom: Best Action Game (2023)
Silver TIER
37% of scored reviews fell within the range of 86 to 92 / 100
RELEASE DATES:
GENRES:
- Action, Fighting
DEVELOPER(S):
- NetherRealm Studios
PUBLISHER(S):
- WB Games
SERIES/FRANCHISE:
- Mortal Kombat
GAME MODES:
- Multiplayer, Single player
GAME ENGINE:
- Unreal Engine 4
Where to Play
WHERE TO PLAY
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RATING & REVIEWS
Ratings & Reviews
102
Critic Reviews
84
Average Critic Score
Where to Play
CRITIC REVIEWS
All reviews are from professional critics. Learn more about the critics VSG aggregates.
High Score
100%
Median Score
85%
Low Score
40%
What did you think of Mortal Kombat 1?
Player Reviews0 Votes
0
Chris Moyse (Eurogamer)
September 21, 2023
3/5
Mortal Kombat 1 envisions an exciting future with fluid combat, a fantastic story mode, and superb visuals – but receding features, underbaked mechanics, and a dated online experience keep it in the past.
Steven Mills (Destructoid)
September 21, 2023
8/10
Even though Mortal Kombat 1 is no Flawless Victory, it still feels like a step forward for the franchise. The core gameplay is the best it’s ever been, which I think is the most important thing for the genre.
Mitchell Saltzman (IGN)
September 13, 2023
8/10
So far, the Kameo system and smart changes to the fighting make MK1 feel fresh and exciting, the story mode is predictably great, even if Invasions seems like more of a grind than I’m willing to put myself through to unlock the best cosmetic items.
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Score Ranges
Read the Reviews (102 total)
| Outlet | Author | Score | Date | Quote | Read |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 33bits | Juanma F. Padilla | 90 / 100 | 09-22-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is the second soft reboot of the saga, allowing both newcomers and veterans to enjoy what is surely the best installment in many aspects so far. The small adjustments to the gameplay increase the balance of the combats and the addition of kameos is an interesting novelty. If you are new, this is an ideal time to get on the bandwagon, and if you are a fan of the saga, you cannot miss this installment. | Read review |
| Areajugones | Urko Miguel Galparsoro | 9.2 / 10 | 09-14-2023 | Every aspect of Mortal Kombat 1 has been polished compared to previous games, with highly refined gameplay that also adds new depth. The title has a huge amount of content that guarantees a months of fun. Before finishing, I would like to make it clear that, if there is something, above all, that has to be highlighted, it is that regardless of the fact that the title does practically everything better than well, what stands out most is that Mortal Kombat 1 is fucking fun. | Read review |
| Atomix | Aldo López | 90 / 100 | 09-21-2023 | If you were eagerly awaiting the new installment of the franchise, we tell you in advance that you are going to enjoy it, especially if you are a fan of fighting games. Also, if you want to enter this interesting genre, I think it is a gateway that will make you feel welcome to the most brutal combats. | Read review |
| Attack of the Fanboy | Drew Kopp | 4.5 / 5 stars | 09-14-2023 | While the lack of ambition in the game’s narrative and the inability to play as certain characters keep the game from achieving true greatness, Mortal Kombat 1 is still a top-tier fighting game. The depth of the game’s combat provides less-experienced players with enough skills to succeed while rewarding those willing to take the time and effort to learn the system’s intricacies, and the sheer number of unlockable accessories ensures that you have a reason to keep playing. Mortal Kombat 1 may not land every punch it throws, but it does manage to chart a bold new course for the franchise. | Read review |
| BaziCenter | Farzan Mihanzadeh | 8.5 / 10 | 09-25-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 offers one of the most complete packages we’ve ever seen in this series while taking everything back to a new start and makes you love it in ways you couldn’t have imagined. | Read review |
| Bazimag | Hamidreza Ghaneei | 7.8 / 10 | 09-25-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 can be seen as a worthy addition to the legendary series. Its cinematic campaign and introduction of Kameos in fights contribute significantly to its success. However, the game’s relatively unchanged overall structure makes us lean more towards an upgraded version of Mortal Kombat 11 rather than an entirely new iteration. We hope that NetherRealm Studios will consider implementing more substantial changes in future releases for this beloved series. | Read review |
| But Why Tho? | Jason Payne | 9 / 10 | 09-18-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 stands out among the best in the franchise, taking some of the best elements from games past and introducing new ways to grab new players. | Read review |
| Capsule Computers | Travis Bruno | 8.5 / 10 | 09-25-2023 | Although Mortal Kombat 1 may have some flaws, they do little to dampen the expanded toolkit that Kameos add to the highly entertaining and gory combat that will keep fans coming back for more. | Read review |
| Cerealkillerz | Steve Brieller | 8.4 / 10 | 09-27-2023 | NetherRealm Studios plays it safe. The Reboot resets the story via a multiverse approach. From a gameplay perspective MK1 brings a classic Mortal Kombat experience with no experiments. Besides the abyssmal Switch port, there aren’t any major hiccups technical wise. | Read review |
| CGMagazine | Justin Wood | 9 / 10 | 09-13-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is an excellent entry point for new comers and returning fans. It outshines every previous Mortal Kombat in almost every way, with intuitive controls and interesting modes. NetherRealm cranks the gore up to 11 and I cant wait to see what else they have in store for us. | Read review |
| Checkpoint Gaming | Elliot Attard | 8.5 / 10 | 09-25-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 may not be a massive evolution of the fighting game formula, but what’s on offer is still incredibly detailed and lovingly implemented. From the camp fun of the game’s main campaign, to the beautiful flow of online fights, to the string of new ideas found in the seasonal Invasions Mode. There’s a lot to digest here and a lot to enjoy. Another success by NetherRealm Studios, solidifying them as a masterful fighting game force. | Read review |
| Chicas Gamers | Álvaro Bustío | Recommended | 09-21-2023 | NetherRealms Studios can be proud to present its most fun and entertaining Mortal Kombat yet. Mortal Kombat 1 is a breath of fresh air for older players as well as an opportunity for newer players to get hooked on the franchise. A game that will provide us with many hours of fun, almost infinite thanks to its seasonal invasion system, and of which we will invest a lot to complete the towers mode in order to obtain the personalized endings for each character and meet the challenges of the mode. training (combos, perfect blocks, etc.). | Read review |
| COGconnected | Jaz Sagoo | 90 / 100 | 09-13-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 refines and improves on its solid foundation to deliver a devastating tag-team blow. | Read review |
| Cubed3 | Justin Prinsloo | 7 / 10 | 09-27-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 absolutely shines in its gameplay, thanks to some healthy tweaks to the formula, not least of which is the excellent Kameo system. There are flashy combos aplenty and some fresh takes on series staples, which are sadly let down by currently lacklustre online options and a less compelling single player experience, bar the riveting story mode. Still, there’s so much fun to be had for players obsessed with optimising their combos and getting their fists bloody in the ring, but the amount of content falls shy of what we’ve been spoiled with in other modern fighters on the market — at the time of this writing, at least. | Read review |
| Cultured Vultures | Ashley Bates | 9 / 10 | 09-20-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1’s New Era might be a bit too familiar, but the core gameplay and range of modes on offer here is undeniable. | Read review |
| DASHGAMER.com | Dan Rizzo | 10 / 10 | 10-09-2023 | A statement from its creators, that gifts gamers that has followed the series for three decades, from the arcade to a lofty, cinematic gaming juggernaut, cementing its stance as the fighting genre’s best ever. Mortal Kombat 1 is unmissable, and is sure to delight any all gamers that are looking to dive deep into fantastic writing, some mindless combat and delectable bloodlust. | Read review |
| Destructoid | Steven Mills | 8 / 10 | 09-21-2023 | Even though Mortal Kombat 1 is no Flawless Victory, it still feels like a step forward for the franchise. The core gameplay is the best it’s ever been, which I think is the most important thing for the genre. | Read review |
| Dexerto | Andrew Highton | 5 / 5 stars | 09-15-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 not only reboots its own universe but everything you know and love about fighting games. The way a story is told and how it’s presented. It shows that it listens to its fans and does so by refining its addictive gameplay with noticeable nuances and then slapping on a new Kameo system that serves as more of a game-changer than a game-breaker. | Read review |
| Digital Chumps | Will Silberman | 9.3 / 10 | 09-28-2023 | Violence has never looked as vivid, gorgeous, and wild as it is in Mortal Kombat 1. Its fighting mechanics remain just as approachable and appealing as prior entries, with one key difference: It’s the best-feeling Mortal Kombat I’ve played thus far. There’re some minor quirks that are still being ironed out at the time of writing, but I’m excited, legitimately excited, to see what Netherrealm chooses to add to this game. | Read review |
| Digital Trends | Tomas Franzese | 3.5 / 5 stars | 09-19-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1’s creative Kameo system helps reinvent the classic fighting series, but poor single-player offerings feel like a step back. | Read review |
| DualShockers | AKU | 9.8 / 10 | 09-21-2023 | A visually stunning fighter with loads of fun single-player content, a combat system that encourages diversity, and an amazing but short story. DualShockers was provided with a copy of the game for review purposes. | Read review |
| Easy Allies | Michael Huber | 4.25 / 5 stars | 09-26-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is another excellent addition to the prolific franchise, thanks to high production values, the new Kameo system, and the promising new Invasion campaign. | Read review |
| Echo Boomer | Diogo dos Santos | Recommended | 10-05-2023 | After Mortal Kombat 11 raised the bar for one of the most beloved arcade fighting sagas in history, Mortal Kombat 1 hits the reset button without compromising on quality. | Read review |
| Eurogamer | Chris Moyse | Not Recommended | 09-21-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 envisions an exciting future with fluid combat, a fantastic story mode, and superb visuals | Read review |
| Eurogamer.pt | Bruno Galvão | 5 / 5 stars | 09-18-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is one of the most fun and spectacular 3D fighting games of the last 10 or 15 years. The gameplay is extremely accessible for anyone to enjoy, but there is enough depth to be discovered to reward the most dedicated, even more so now with the Kameo. Combining this with its superb graphics and sound quality makes Mortal Kombat 1 a game of strong appeal to fans of the genre. Modes like Story, Invasion, and Towers mean strong single-player content and long hours of gameplay for lots of fun built with strong jig. If you want to embrace online, get ready for a lot of time in Practice mode and hundreds of hours of playing. | Read review |
| Everyeye.it | Antonello Gaeta | 8 / 10 | 09-19-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 presents one of the best combat systems of the saga, creative, rich in variations, deep and complex. | Read review |
| Game Informer | Brian Shea | 9 / 10 | 09-15-2023 | When the first Mortal Kombat debuted more than 30 years ago, the series quickly became known for its trademark blood, gore, and violence. While that is still at the forefront thanks to Mortal Kombat 1’s Fatal Blows, Brutalities, and, of course, Fatalities, the longer the series has gone on, the longer it has rightfully become just as known for its genre-leading approach to single-player content and incredibly tight fighting mechanics. In making strides in both areas, Mortal Kombat 1 moves the series forward to continue what has already been a terrific year for the genre. | Read review |
| Game Rant | Liam Ferguson | 4 / 5 stars | 09-16-2023 | All together, Mortal Kombat 1 is an impressive package, changing things up while showing reverence for even the most obscure parts of its franchise. With that said, nothing in MK1, from gameplay to narrative, is any more than a strict evolution of MK11. Mortal Kombat 1 contributes little new to the fighting game space, and the nearby Street Fighter 6 harshly contrasts it by claiming the custom fighters and open world Konquest mode Mortal Kombat left behind. Still, Liu Kang’s new timeline shows great promise, and Mortal Kombat 1 should keep its community satisfied until the next Mortal Kombat begins. | Read review |
| Gameblog | KiKiToes | 9 / 10 | 09-26-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is a pure marvel. This reboot offers a news future for the license without altering the original material, quite the contrary. It’s one of the most beautiful games of these last years. Fighting has never been so exciting and exhilarating, not to mention the always so gory and skilfully staged fatalities. | Read review |
| Gamefa | Arman Zarmehr | 8.5 / 10 | 09-25-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 feels familiar and new at the same time, but nonetheless, it succeeds in delivering an amazing Fighting experience with nostalgic characters. That aside, some online issues could somewhat damage your overall experience., if you’re a fan of fighting games, Mortal Kombat 1 is a must! | Read review |
| GameGrin | Jacob Sanderson | 8 / 10 | 09-23-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is fantastic, having some minor issues in the story here and there, along with the underwhelming Invasion’s mode, but overall is a great time. | Read review |
| GameMAG | Unknown | 7 / 10 | 10-20-2023 | If you’re looking forward to a deep and engaging fighting game with great single-player content, and the game you can easily pick up with no prior experience, then we suggest you to try Street Fighter 6. As of right now, Mortal Kombat 1 feels like a game aimed strictly at the fanbase of the franchise, and people who are willing to see how the game will evolve in real time. | Read review |
| GamePro | Kai Schmidt | 90 / 100 | 09-18-2023 | Fantastic sequel that outshines its predecessors in terms of gameplay and scope. | Read review |
| Gamers Heroes | Blaine Smith | 9.5 / 10 | 09-17-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 delivers one of the most impressive and exciting storylines I’ve ever experienced in this genre. The voice acting, the facial animations, everything comes together in near-perfect harmony. Fighting is fun, challenging, and rewarding every step of the way. Mortal Kombat 1 is brutally brilliant, and probably the best Mortal Kombat game I’ve ever played. | Read review |
| GAMES.CH | Alain Jollat | 90 / 100 | 09-18-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is an impressive fighting game. Violent to an exaggerated degree, of course, but that is the trademark of the series. Fortunately, the title offers more than just executed losers, but convinces with clever changes to the gameplay, a considerable number of stages and fighters | Read review |
| GameSpew | Richard Seagrave | 9 / 10 | 09-18-2023 | While Mortal Kombat 1 feels a little streamlined and cut down compared to Mortal Kombat 11, it surpasses it where it really counts: the gameplay. This is quite simply the most fun we’ve had with a Mortal Kombat game to date. The improved combat with its faster pace, combined with a brilliant roster of fighters and the new Kameo system, means that we’re once again excited for the future of the series, as well as what’s to come to this entry. We’ll be returning to Invasion mode time and time again as its seasonal content is refreshed, and look forward to more characters being added into the mix. | Read review |
| GameSpot | Jason Fanelli | 8 / 10 | 09-20-2023 | Great mechanics and a wild story make a solid first impression, but a shallow selection of modes keeps MK1 from a flawless victory. | Read review |
| GamesRadar+ | Andi Hamilton | 5 / 5 stars | 09-19-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is a superbly presented fighting game with something to offer players of all experience and familiarity with NetherRealm’s sprawling MK universe. The Kameo fighter system injects new strategic depth into combat, the rebooted timeline feeds a ridiculous story, and the suite of game modes are both varied and well made. | Read review |
| Gaming Nexus | Nathan Carter | 7 / 10 | 10-02-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 gets the gameplay part right but I can’t shake the feeling that this game was released way too early. While you do get a full story mode and Invasions mode there are so many small problems that really take away from what should be the best game NetherRealm has made yet. | Read review |
| GamingBolt | Rashid Sayed | 9 / 10 | 09-18-2023 | With its largely satisfying story mode, an intriguing new mode in Invasions, a better progression system for both playable and Kameo characters, and robust online modes, Mortal Kombat 1 delivers the best Mortal Kombat experience ever. | Read review |
| GamingTrend | Jack Zustiak | 80 / 100 | 09-18-2023 | Mortal Kombat’s “new era” takes more from the old ones than the reboot implies. While this allows Mortal Kombat 1 to bring the best elements of the series to the forefront, it also distracts from what should be a bold new beginning. | Read review |
| Generación Xbox | Gabriel Fuentes | 8.3 / 10 | 09-17-2023 | The new installment of Mortal Kombat 1 does almost everything right and opens the door to a new era of the most brutal tournament between the worlds. With modes that promise, completely new mechanics for the franchise and many characters and content to come, the latest version of the saga of NetherRealm Studios will not find any difficulty in making a place in the hearts of fans and also those who take advantage of the reboot to start knowing the IP. It’s never too late for someone to arrive for the first time in Mortal Kombat, especially for an edition that can be considered, perhaps, the best of the IP. | Read review |
| God is a Geek | Chris White | 10 / 10 | 09-17-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is exceptional, offering the best fighting the series has ever seen, with a thoroughly enjoyable story and Invasion mode. | Read review |
| GRYOnline.pl | Sebastian Kasparek | 7.5 / 10 | 09-18-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is a safe sequel without surprises. Unless someone is surprised by a well-crafted storyline, brutality and lots of single-player content. This is “just” another Mortal Kombat with all the good and the bad. | Read review |
| Guardian | Luke Winkie | 3 / 5 stars | 09-26-2023 | Fans of the fighting game’s cast of lunatics will enjoy this nostalgic reboot, but its combat fundamentals have remained largely unchanged | Read review |
| Hardcore Gamer | Kevin Dunsmore | 3.5 / 5 stars | 09-19-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 was pitched as the start of a new era for Mortal Kombat, where NetherRealm Studios had complete freedom to craft the universe they wanted, mostly free from the previous two eras. | Read review |
| Hobby Consolas | Daniel Quesada | 90 / 100 | 09-14-2023 | Netherrealm does not risk too much with its new delivery, but it strengthens a brutal fighting game in every way, comfortable to control and very fun. | Read review |
| Hynerd.it | Naomi Rusciano | 9.5 / 10 | 09-18-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 represents the highest point of the saga developed by NetherRealm. The story is worthy of an animated feature film, with a good cinematic level that manages to project the gamer inside a real movie. The gameplay is dynamic, fun with a combo system that has undergone a real modernization (although we are not yet faced with the work accomplished by Street Fighter 6), making them much more accessible and intuitable. Unfortunately, the sound compartment fails to keep up with the corresponding video group and, after the end of the story, you have little to do with the Invasions and Towers modes. | Read review |
| IGN | Mitchell Saltzman | 8 / 10 | 09-13-2023 | So far, the Kameo system and smart changes to the fighting make MK1 feel fresh and exciting, the story mode is predictably great, even if Invasions seems like more of a grind than I’m willing to put myself through to unlock the best cosmetic items. | Read review |
| IGN Italy | Diego Cinelli | 8.5 / 10 | 09-26-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 leans on a robust story (with solid foundations, but with a less than impeccable development) and a couple of other single player modes capable of entertaining for several hours – and even more, if NetherRealm Studios is able to properly exploit the seasonal system. The addition of kameo fighters and the focus on aerial combos leaves more room for the player’s creativity compared to the previous chapter, with the assists of the secondary fighters breaking up and altering the rhythm of the matches in a positive way. | Read review |
| IGN Spain | Alejandro Morillas | 9 / 10 | 09-15-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is one of the best fighting games of recent years. A new high point for the series in the form of reimagining, ideal for neophytes and brimming with affection for his legacy for veterans. | Read review |
| Impulsegamer | Nathan Misa | 3.5 / 5 stars | 09-20-2023 | Unmatched cinematic story mode and core fighting gameplay mechanics marred by baffling content and feature exclusions. | Read review |
| INDIANTVCZ | Dominik Vysloužil | 9 / 10 | 09-21-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is the best installment in the series. The reboot of the timeline made room for new, but also old chaotic plots that are now gripped a little more steadily. Beginners needn’t fear starting off with this installment. Thanks to the cameo fighters, you get something new again. Unfortunately, the interactivity of the arenas has fallen off with this option, but given the dynamics of the combat, that’s not entirely a bad thing. The soundtrack in Mortal Kombat is more ambient than some dynamic pumper. The changes from the last installment are many, but I can’t say they’re detrimental. On the contrary, I really enjoyed this fresh start. | Read review |
| LevelUp | Fernando Salinas | 8.5 / 10 | 09-21-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is a great example that you can take a step back for good. The reboot of the franchise takes the opportunity to introduce new features that improve the gaming experience and takes risks with a new element that integrates well into the classic formula. The feeling of freedom when doing aerial combos is expanded thanks to the kameo fighter, which adds a multifunction variable in each fight. It is clear that this new installment neglected some sections, but put a lot of effort into offering solid control. A sacrifice that left a mark but had good results. | Read review |
| Merlin’in Kazanı | Samet Basri Taşlı | 87 / 100 | 09-19-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 successfully brings about the rebirth of the series. Although it is a little weak on the story side, it makes up for all its shortcomings with its magnificent gameplay. | Read review |
| Metro GameCentral | GameCentral | 8 / 10 | 09-15-2023 | The story campaign and, arguably, the fighting are the best they’ve ever been for Mortal Kombat, although there’s currently a lack of other modes and Invasion is a disappointment. | Read review |
| MonsterVine | Spencer Legacy | 3.5 / 5 stars | 10-04-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 does a lot right, but it’s missing things that really made NetherRealm’s fighting games stand out in recent years. I hope future patches and additions build the game up to fulfill all of its potential, but the base game here feels a bit too thin on content. | Read review |
| Noisy Pixel | Jahanzeb Khan | 8.5 / 10 | 09-18-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is a welcome addition to a thriving fighting game landscape. The new systems build on top of the already established foundation created in Mortal Kombat 11 but in a more refined way. It doesn’t shy away from its gorey roots, and thankfully the Kameo system is far better than the voice cameos heard throughout the campaign. Essentially, this is Mortal Kombat done in a way that embraces more powerful hardware and delivers an experience that lives up to the legacy of the series. | Read review |
| NoobFeed | Jay Claassen | 90 / 100 | 10-02-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 has seen vast improvements and brings a lot of new features to the table, even though some aren’t entirely necessary. The Story Mode alone brings a whole new beginning for Mortal Kombat as a whole and opens up endless new possibilities for the franchise to grow and expand upon. While there are a few minor drawbacks, like the complexity of Kameos and the strange turn brought in with Invasions, the biggest flop is how online play is handled. Though Story Mode and the visual side of Mortal Kombat 1 more than make up for a good majority of the flaws. | Read review |
| Oyungezer Online | Ali Sezgin | 8 / 10 | 10-06-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 has all the depth and technical detail a fighting game should have. Though I’d expect it to be more generous with content and different game modes to keep the player entertained. | Read review |
| PC Gamer | Robin Valentine | 70 / 100 | 09-21-2023 | There’s the skeleton of a good Mortal Kombat here, but it’s lacking in meat. Low on personality and half-baked in its attempt to reboot the story, it feels fated to be remembered as the least interesting of the modern MK games. | Read review |
| PC Invasion | Alejandro Josan | 9 / 10 | 09-19-2023 | With the responsibility of becoming the next great Mortal Kombat game, Mortal Kombat 1 is a masterclass in gaming achievement. While not perfect, it surely brings the ultimate Mortal Kombat experience to the table. | Read review |
| PCGamesN | Dave Irwin | 8 / 10 | 09-21-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 offers smart changes to the series’ gameplay, an entertaining story that still threatens to baffle newcomers and veterans alike, an online mode that works well on PC, and tons of gore. While the seasonal Invasions mode is a fascinating idea, it’s unclear whether it’ll be enough to retain long-term interest. However, this is still a fantastic, horribly gruesome Mortal Kombat game that’s well worth your time. | Read review |
| PCMag | Jordan Minor | 4.5 / 5 stars | 09-19-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 isn’t the clean narrative reboot that its name implies, but its rich single-player action and new tag-team aerial brawls make for the best fighting system in the history of the franchise. | Read review |
| PlayStation LifeStyle | Michael Leri | 8 / 10 | 09-16-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 has some of the most liberating combat mechanics NetherRealm has ever made, but some of the peripheral features fall a little short of what the studio has achieved prior. Being able to access more tricks and dig into the Kameo system gives fights more depth than they’ve ever had. That ingenuity clashes with the vague unlock system, repetitive Invasion mode, and inconsistent campaign that strangely don’t match the heights of previous NetherRealm games. Mortal Kombat 1 is a victory in many ways, just not a flawless one. | Read review |
| PlayStation Universe | Tommy Holloway | 8.5 / 10 | 09-18-2023 | Whilst Mortal Kombat 1 has a lack of content, and a frustrating unlockable system, it is the most streamlined iteration to date. Refining the gameplay, the new kameo system, combined with a blockbuster story mode that has shaken the lore up, Mortal Kombat 1 is the most interesting it has been since Mortal Kombat 9. | Read review |
| Polygon | Michael McWhertor | Recommended | 10-02-2023 | With Mortal Kombat 1, NetherRealm has made an admirable effort to refresh its gameplay mechanics and differentiate its latest entry from the recent trilogy of games. On some fronts, particularly around the story, audiovisual presentation, and accessibility, it’s a huge step forward. But some very visible elements, especially online play, do not represent the same leap. Even after a four-year gap since Mortal Kombat 11, Mortal Kombat 1 feels like it needed a bit more time to cook. But with a commitment to seasonal content and the next six fighters already revealed as part of the game’s first Kombat Pack, it’s clear that Mortal Kombat 1 will grow over time and, hopefully, improve. | Read review |
| Press Start | James Mitchell | 9.5 / 10 | 09-14-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is a joyful reinvention of a series that is continually hitting its stride. A strong and varied roster is bolstered by an ingenious Kameo system that offers up a great degree of player flexibility unlike anything else. While it’s a bit off an odd choice to not have crossplay at launch and the approach to gear is bound to be divisive, Mortal Kombat 1 feels like the most complete Mortal Kombat experience so far. And perhaps even one of the best fighting games I’ve ever played. | Read review |
| Prima Games | Shaun Cichacki | 9.5 / 10 | 09-13-2023 | From the exquisitely designed stages that morph and meld as the combat reaches the highest points of the action to the revamped characters that you’ll find within this new version of the world, Mortal Kombat 1 may be my new personal favorite Mortal Kombat experience. | Read review |
| PSX Brasil | Ivan Nikolai Barkow Castilho | 85 / 100 | 09-19-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 has a fun gameplay with several options of combo routes because of the Kameos. However, the Invasions mode gets boring quickly and the final arc of the Story mode doesn’t please either. The customization of the characters could be further improved after what we’ve seen in the other games from NetherRealm Studios and the absence of Krypta is remarkable. | Read review |
| Push Square | Scott McCrae | 7 / 10 | 09-16-2023 | Like we said in the beginning, Mortal Kombat 1 is the best and most refreshing entry in the series since Mortal Kombat (2011), but it falls directly into the same traps as those prior entries. The core fighting is great thanks to the excellent Kameo Fighter system and increased pace (as well as ditching the styles and gear-specific moves), and the return of PS2-era fighters is fantastic. But sadly, the selection of modes and character-specific training options feel extremely dated – especially compared to Street Fighter 6. | Read review |
| Rock, Paper, Shotgun | Brendan Caldwell | Recommended | 09-18-2023 | The dependably bloody fighter franchise mixes things up for Mortal Kombat 1, but don’t call it a reboot. | Read review |
| Saudi Gamer | Unknown | 7 / 10 | 09-24-2023 | The fighting is solid and so are the graphics and story mode, but as a new start this entry is lacking in modes or ground breaking features to compete with the best. | Read review |
| Screen Rant | Christopher Teuton | 3.5 / 5 stars | 09-13-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 reboots the series for the second time in 30 years, and while the fighting is good it’s clear everyone is unsure how to move forward. | Read review |
| SECTOR.sk | Matúš Štrba | 9 / 10 | 09-15-2023 | NetherRealm has really managed to make an exceptionally high quality title that is great story-wise and handles the brand boldly, yet with honour. Mortal Kombat 1 may very well be the best fighting game in this busy year, and it ranks among the best that this well-known franchise has ever delivered. | Read review |
| Shacknews | David Craddock | 9 / 10 | 09-20-2023 | Fans waited four years for NetherRealm to release a new fighting game, and all that waiting paid off. From the surprises in its new mythology, to the white-knuckled pace and creativity in its gameplay, Mortal Kombat 1 is the freshest take on the series in years. | Read review |
| Siliconera | Joel Couture | 9 / 10 | 09-21-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 looks incredible, has several fun play types depending on what you want to do, constantly rewards you for the time you spend on it, and offers so much customization to the combat through the Kameo system. | Read review |
| Slant Magazine | Justin Clark | 3 / 5 stars | 10-12-2023 | Compared to just how expansive MK11 felt even at launch, MK1 feels a bit like Street Fighter V at launch. At least this game has a full-fledged campaign and Arcade style modes with fully voiced endings, but there’s a similar feeling of emptiness about it. That’s a bad vibe to get, especially for the first major fighting game to launch in Street Fighter 6’s shadow. There’s plenty of room for MK1 to expand, but as it stands, Mortal Kombat just tested its might on another reboot and may have broken something unnecessarily in the process. | Read review |
| SpazioGames | Francesco Corica | 8.5 / 10 | 09-18-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 evolves the series in every aspect, resulting both fresh for new users and familiar and satisfying for returning players. | Read review |
| Stevivor | Steve Wright | 8 / 10 | 09-13-2023 | Because of the extremely limited time to play, I’ve spent practically all available time within story mode. It’s a mixed bag. | Read review |
| The Escapist | KC Nwosu | Recommended | 09-19-2023 | Video Review | Read review |
| The Game Crater | Chris Melnyk | 9 / 10 | 09-19-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 provides captivating features for both offline and online gaming, with noteworthy additions like Kameos and Invasions enhancing the gameplay and comprehensive tutorials facilitating skill improvement. The storyline unfolds masterfully without overstaying its welcome. However, online play disappoints with limited modes. Nonetheless, Mortal Kombat 1 offers an exceptional gaming experience for fans, whether you’re a new fighter or a long-time enthusiast. | Read review |
| The Games Machine | Gabriele Barducci | 9 / 10 | 09-19-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is a triumph in every way. Aesthetically clean, carefully crafted, with a revised and optimized combat approach for each character. The introduction of the Kameo characters amplifies the need to find ever new and lethal combinations. | Read review |
| The Outerhaven Productions | Karl Smart | 4 / 5 stars | 10-18-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 brings the idea of a whole new universe into light with an amazing, but really fast-paced, story mode. However, the rest of the game feels like Mortal Kombat as a franchise has stagnated in terms of gameplay with nothing really innovating things outside of the cameo fighter system. Then we have the impending microtransaction additions that you know are coming, and I hate those with a passion. | Read review |
| TheGamer | George Foster | 4 / 5 stars | 09-15-2023 | It’s a shame that Invasions and the snail’s pace progression drag Mortal Kombat 1 down a little because, if it wasn’t for them, this would easily be the best Mortal Kombat to date. Even with those problems, MK1’s excellent gameplay and story mode make it a much-needed breath of fresh air for the series and a great first step into an exciting new timeline. | Read review |
| TheSixthAxis | Nick Petrasiti | 8 / 10 | 09-14-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 serves as a love letter to fans of this thirty-one-year-old franchise and as a pseudo-reboot it also has potential appeal to newcomers alike. There’s still room to grow and I’m sure it will just keep getting better, but Mortal Kombat 1 is already definitely worth your time. | Read review |
| Too Much Gaming | Joseph Choi | 4 / 10 | 10-16-2023 | If you’re a masochist or enjoy glitch-fests, you might find something salvageable about in the Switch version of Mortal Kombat 1, but I strongly implore you to reconsider, and to warn your friends. Buy a new console if you must, but do not spend your hard-earned money on this travesty. | Read review |
| Twinfinite | Jake Su | 4 / 5 stars | 09-20-2023 | Whether you are a seasoned combatant or a new one stepping into the arena for the first time, Mortal Kombat 1 has something for you. The Kameo system has revitalized the trusted formula, which has improved with the many welcomed changes made by the team, everything looks great in motion, and the story mode is more engaging than ever before. Invasions might not be for everybody, and online play could do with some work, but there is nothing too major holding this game back from shining brightly. A new era of Mortal Kombat has arrived, and things are looking smashingly good. | Read review |
| Unboxholics | Κυριάκος Στεργιάδης | Recommended | 09-21-2023 | The bottom line about Mortal Kombat 1 is that it has a flowing story that’s enjoyable in its own cinematic way. The spectacle takes off thanks to an incredible and flawless technical field, with graphics that are a joy to behold, but also a robust, tried and tested and updated gameplay. It breaks down in the “what to do after the story” section, Because if you’re not competitive and experienced enough for the online part, it’s hard to keep you going for long. There is always of course the traditional couch co-op where with friends fun is guaranteed. Mortal Kombat 1 may be the second reboot in the series, but it manages to renew rather than reinvent itself, without risking losing its bloody, super violent and fun fighting nature! | Read review |
| Use a Potion | Unknown | 9 / 10 | 09-25-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is a glorious fighting experience that offers some of the best combat and storytelling seen across the series. The new Kameo system offers a whole new way to approach battles with your foes, whilst the way that the game leans into both the new and old with its overall theming ensures that it manages to feel both fresh and familiar at the same time. The Story Mode remains as excellent as expected, whilst the Invasion mode gives players a creative way to experience the game’s brutal action. | Read review |
| VG247 | Connor Makar | Recommended | 09-13-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 sets the stage for a new era of MK that you can’t help but get pumped up for. NetherRealm, like the characters in its ultraviolent universe, is staring right into the face of a brave new world and locking eyes with the future. | Read review |
| VGChartz | Daniel Parker | 8 / 10 | 10-21-2023 | While the series has traditionally had very good presentation values, Mortal Kombat 1 actually vitalizes the gameplay into something engaging, silky, and fun. | Read review |
| VideoGamer | Antony Terence | 9 / 10 | 09-13-2023 | With gorgeous next-gen visuals, spine-wringing combos, and new Kameo fighters, Mortal Kombat 1 is less a reboot and more an accessible yet fulfilling return to form. | Read review |
| Washington Post | Gene Park | 75FALSE | 09-15-2023 | Mortal Kombat doesn’t need to and probably shouldn’t “grow up.” Eternal adolescence is the point. But to stay young, it just needs to shed the old. | Read review |
| Wccftech | Nathan Birch | 8.5 / 10 | 09-14-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is one of the franchise’s most bloody-entertaining entries to date, offering up refined action, smartly revamped fighters, and a story mode that delivers a surprisingly-coherent plot and plenty of blockbuster thrills. A lack of compelling modes and meaningful character customization does hurt, but Mortal Kombat 1 should be a heart-ripping hit with fans even if the overall package is slightly anemic. | Read review |
| WellPlayed | Ash Wayling | 9.5 / 10 | 09-14-2023 | NetherRealm Studios has scooped up all of their favourite toys and re-distributed them across the playroom in a way that has revivified the Mortal Kombat experience, birthing perhaps the most solid and enjoyable fighting game I have ever encountered. | Read review |
| Windows Central | Samuel Tolbert | 4 / 5 stars | 09-26-2023 | Mortal Kombat successfully resets the timeline with a strong campaign and fun gameplay. Not everything receives the same care and attention, as customization in multiplayer leaves a fair bit to be desired, with microtransactions aplenty. It’s still a game worthy of the Mortal Kombat name however, and a great excuse to test your might by yourself or with friends. | Read review |
| Worth Playing | Cody Medellin | 9 / 10 | 09-22-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 lives up to the hype. The gameplay tweaks to the core fighting keep things fast and explosive, and the addition of Kameos significantly adds to your arsenal in a fight. The story mode is top-notch in the genre, even if it can quickly get weird. Add in Invasions mode, and Mortal Kombat 1 matches Street Fighter 6 in giving solo players plenty to do. It looks and plays great, and the netcode is solid, so it stands alongside Capcom’s latest as a strong fighting game that’ll be in your rotation for years to come. | Read review |
| Xbox Achievements | Richard Walker | 90 / 100 | 09-20-2023 | Outdoing previous Mortal Kombats in the gore stakes, and boasting a slew of meaningful and genuinely exciting single-player content, alongside the usual online offerings, Mortal Kombat 1 outstrips previous efforts, delivering one of the finest fighting games money can buy. | Read review |
| XGN.nl | Roy Rijsdijk | 8 / 10 | 09-25-2023 | The iconic Mortal Kombat franchises spans more than 30 years already, but stills knows how to deliver a solid fighting game. They proof that with the soft reboot that is Mortal Kombat 1. Story mode and some new, intuitive fighting mechanics carry this installment, even though as a whole it’s not as ‘meaty’ as its predecessor. | Read review |
| Zoomg | Sadegh Tavazoyi | 8.5 / 10 | 09-25-2023 | Mortal Kombat 1 is a fresh start for the Mortal Kombat series. The story has its ups and downs with great start but a bit disappointing ending but, gameplay is where Mortal Kombat 1 truely shines and can entertain the old and new users for a long time. |
Awards & Recognition
RECOGNITION
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* VSG’s best estimate for how long it will take you to complete the game. Learn more.
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