For over two decades, the Mortal Kombat franchise has given gamers brutal fatalities to perform using martial arts in a flash of fantasy. Introduction of the cast: Since MK1 in 23 different revisions From its debut back in 1992, Mortal Kombat has brought to life one of the most diverse and best character cabinets ever. These characters have changed so much over the years, all of them with rich backstories and different fighting styles. From villains to dark sorcerers, this post will list some of the most iconic characters that shaped and impacted what Mortal Kombat as a franchise has become.

Scorpion (Hanzo Hasashi)

A fan favorite from the first Mortal Kombat, Scorpion is one of that game’s original characters. A central theme within the series is his pursuit of vengeance against Sub-Zero, whom he believes had killed both his family and clan. Spear – Scorpion’s (Get over here!); and his fire-based moves have cemented him as an iconic figure in the series. Scorpion’s story has changed as the years have gone on, showing him to shift from a wraith bent purely upon vengeance into something of an anti-hero.

Sub-Zero (Bi-Han & Kuai Liang)

There are a few cornerstones, such as Sub-Zero with his myriad of stories. Originally depicted as deceased by Scorpion’s hand, Sub-Zero was later revealed to be the younger brother of his killer and Kuai Liang took up the name for Mortal Kombat II. The iconic Cryomancer that he is, Sub-Zero can freeze enemies and make ice weapons. His eternal feud with Scorpion, and being one of the Lin Kuei clan’s leaders shrouds his character in history making him an icon of Mortal Kombat.

Liu Kang

Liu Kang (often considered the series’ hero) is a Shaolin monk and martial arts warrior who can control fire. He was named Earthrealm’s champion for protecting his home from a variety of threats again and again. Liu Kang goes from a wandering monk in Mortal Kombat 1 to become the god-like figure (Fire God Liu Kang) so his story is vital to progressing forward with this overarching plot.

Raiden

One of the most central characters to exist in the Mortal Kombat universe, Raiden is none other than Xing-Ze. He is the guiding force and protector of Earthrealm who rallies with them to fight the Outworlders. From an otherwise honorable character, Raiden had moments of moral ambiguity and inner turmoil when he lost his mercy craft and started to become aggressive to protect earthrealm.

Johnny Cage

Another composite character, Hollywood action star turned martial artist Johnny Cage provides both comedy and derring-do to the series. Though initially arrogant and egocentric, Cage eventually becomes a warrior devoted to protecting the Earthrealm. But his campy moves and silly one-liners add an offbeat counterpoint to the series’ more serious Mortal Kombat themes.

Sonya Blade

Veteran Special Forces officer Sonya Blade is a memorable character for her military discipline and powerful martial arts skills. The player assumes the role of a character chosen from Earthrealm, who is then confused with other heroes, such as Johnny Cage and Jax. Her loyalty to her job and hatred of Black Dragon army member Kano are much of what motivates this character.

Shang Tsung

One of the top villains in all Mortal Kombat, Shang Tsung is a sorcerer with a penchant for thieving souls. He can turn into other characters and adapt their power making him a really tough villain. Over the course of the series, Shang Tsung’s plots and his alliances with other murderous malcontents like Shao Kahn constantly endanger Earthrealm.

Kitana

Kitana – Edenian princess, trained assassin and owner of a lengthy, intricate narrative arc. Initially serving Shao Kahn, she soon comes to oppose him upon learning her true parentage. This makes Kitana – who has a pretty deep storyline, going from conflicted warrior to justice seeking leader of Outworld – seem weak and untapped. She is at her most dangerous armed with razor-sharp fans and dexterous agility.

Mileena

Shang Tsung’s warrior Mileena is 50 percent Edenian and Tarkatan blood. She is equal parts beauty and brutality with Tarkatan blood on her mother’s side combined with Edenian heritage. One of the most mysterious characters in Mortal Kombat, Mileena has fought aimlessly for control and freedom her whole life – all while with a disgusting visage and deadly attacks.

Jax Briggs

Major Jackson “JAX” Briggs is a Special Forces hero and long-time best friend of Sonya Blade. His bionic arms, a gift from an encounter with Ermac gives him the opportunity to use his enhanced strength and combat skills. Striving to be the vigilant hero, Jax is based on his strong will towards Earthrealm and protecting it from evil.

Characters Of Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) & Evolution

Mortal Kombat 1 which is its latest installment, albeit reimagined for the current generation game console, has brought with it a wealth of beloved characters and given new life to their stories and powers. Here are some highlights:

Shang Tsung

Shang Tsung still serves as a powerful villain, maintaining his powers of soul stealing and shapeshifting. It gives him Wolverine claws for arm and kick combos that can be used at a distance, making him even more savage in battle.

Johnny Cage

Just Johnny Cage being the rockstar he is with his signature animations returning. Land of outlandish kicks and heavy punches, Cage is still one hell of a fun character to play.

Kenshi

Shang Tsung must face the vengeance of Kenshi, a blind swordsman with psychokinetic powers. Starkiller is a deadly hand-to-hand combatant utilizing his expert swordsmanship and telekinetic powers.

Smoke

Someone capable of close range fighting with a dizzying array of brutal speed and smoke teleport attacks, Smoke is one the Lin Kuei clan. Quick combos and anti-air attacks ensure that he is a tough opponent to face.

Rain

A half god from Edenida, Rain uses his hydro-assorted sorcery to confuse foes. Long-range attacks and devastating combos are the hallmarks of this royal bloodline for a reason.

Tanya

Tanya is a quick agile fighter that uses a staff that she can use as both long range whip and melee blunt-force weapon. This grant colors her character, making it more than just a treacherous assassin standing by Mileena.

Baraka

Baraka returns as a victim of the Tarkat virus and schools new-comers to his brutal combat style with destructive combos. Though what sets him apart is his loyalty to Mileena and overall tragic story.

Li Mei

Shang Tsung betrays Outworld citizen Li Mei, but she signals to the hero movement in an attempt to save her people. The resilience and strong warrior presence are further emphasized by her abilities (and the fact that she is unbeatable)

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Conclusion

Over the years, the characters of Mortal Kombat have grown something fierce with later installments fleshing them out in terms of story and powers. With the original fighters such as Scorpion and Sub-Zero to reimagined Mortal Kombat 1 characters, this series has kept players enthralled in its story lore while delivering intense martial arts action. As the latest chapter in Mortal Kombat’s story, these characters will no doubt continue to grow and explore new narratives while contributing fresh challenges into the iconic fighting game series.