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Mortal Kombat has been a staple in the fighting game genre since its explosive debut in 1992. Renowned for its brutal combat, intricate lore, and iconic characters, the series has grown immensely over the years. Each new installment has introduced fresh fighters and evolved existing ones, creating a dynamic and ever-expanding roster that keeps players engaged. From its early days with digitized graphics and over-the-top violence to the modern era of stunning visuals and complex gameplay mechanics, Mortal Kombat has continually reinvented itself while staying true to its roots. Here’s a comprehensive look at all the Mortal Kombat characters by each game, showcasing the series' rich history and enduring appeal.

via GIPHY

Mortal Kombat (1992)

The original Mortal Kombat game was a revolutionary entry in the fighting game genre, released in arcades in 1992. It introduced a unique blend of digitized graphics and over-the-top violence, setting it apart from other games at the time. The storyline centers around a martial arts tournament held to decide the fate of the Earthrealm. The game’s roster included seven playable characters, each with their own backstory and fighting style. The game’s secret characters and iconic finishing moves, known as Fatalities, became a defining feature.

  • Liu Kang
  • Johnny Cage
  • Kano
  • Raiden
  • Scorpion
  • Sub-Zero
  • Sonya Blade
  • Goro (Sub-Boss)
  • Shang Tsung (Final Boss)
  • Reptile (Hidden Character)

via GIPHY

Mortal Kombat II (1993)

Building on the success of its predecessor, Mortal Kombat II was released in 1993 and expanded the franchise with improved graphics, more complex gameplay, and a larger roster. The sequel introduced new characters and deepened the lore of the Mortal Kombat universe. With a darker tone and more gruesome Fatalities, Mortal Kombat II cemented the series’ reputation for brutal combat. The game also introduced several hidden characters and Easter eggs that rewarded dedicated players.

  • Baraka
  • Jax
  • Kitana
  • Kung Lao
  • Mileena
  • Reptile
  • Scorpion
  • Sub-Zero
  • Shang Tsung
  • Raiden
  • Johnny Cage
  • Liu Kang
  • Reptile (Hidden Character)
  • Jade (Hidden Character)
  • Smoke (Hidden Character)
  • Noob Saibot (Hidden Character)
  • Kintaro (Sub-Boss)
  • Shao Kahn (Final Boss)

Mortal Kombat 3 (1995)

Released in 1995, Mortal Kombat 3 continued to expand the series’ universe with new characters and stages. This installment introduced the “Run” button, allowing for faster-paced combat, and included new Fatalities, Animalities, and Babalities. Mortal Kombat 3 also featured a branching storyline that included multiple endings, adding replay value. The game was notable for its urban setting and cybernetic fighters, which added a new dimension to the Mortal Kombat mythos.

  • Cyrax
  • Kabal
  • Kano
  • Liu Kang
  • Nightwolf
  • Sektor
  • Sindel
  • Sheeva
  • Sonya Blade
  • Stryker
  • Sub-Zero
  • Shang Tsung
  • Jax
  • Smoke
  • Motaro (Sub-Boss)
  • Shao Kahn (Final Boss)
  • Noob Saibot (Hidden Character)

Mortal Kombat 4 (1997)

Mortal Kombat 4, released in 1997, marked the series' transition to 3D graphics. The game retained the franchise’s core fighting mechanics while adding new features such as weapon-based combat and interactive environments. Mortal Kombat 4's storyline revolved around the fallen Elder God Shinnok’s attempt to conquer the realms. The game introduced several new characters and brought back many fan favorites, expanding the lore and offering a fresh experience with the new graphical style.

  • Fujin
  • Jarek
  • Kai
  • Quan Chi
  • Reiko
  • Shinnok
  • Tanya
  • Scorpion
  • Sub-Zero
  • Raiden
  • Liu Kang
  • Sonya Blade
  • Johnny Cage
  • Reptile
  • Goro (Boss)

Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance (2002)

Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance, released in 2002, was a major reinvention of the series. It introduced a new fighting system with multiple fighting styles and weapons for each character. The game’s plot focused on the alliance between sorcerers Shang Tsung and Quan Chi, who seek to conquer the realms. Deadly Alliance also introduced the Krypt, a feature where players could unlock secrets using in-game currency. The game received praise for its depth and innovation, breathing new life into the Mortal Kombat franchise.

  • Blaze
  • Bo' Rai Cho
  • Drahmin
  • Frost
  • Hsu Hao
  • Kenshi
  • Li Mei
  • Mavado
  • Mokap
  • Nitara
  • Kano
  • Kitana
  • Kung Lao
  • Liu Kang (Zombie)
  • Quan Chi
  • Raiden
  • Scorpion
  • Shang Tsung
  • Sonya Blade
  • Sub-Zero

Mortal Kombat: Deception (2004)

Released in 2004, Mortal Kombat: Deception built upon the innovations of Deadly Alliance. It featured new gameplay modes, including a chess-inspired strategy game and a puzzle game. Deception also introduced online multiplayer, a first for the series. The game’s plot centered on the return of the Dragon King Onaga, who threatens all realms. With a rich story mode and diverse roster, Deception was well-received for its gameplay variety and depth.

  • Ashrah
  • Baraka
  • Dairou
  • Darrius
  • Havik
  • Hotaru
  • Kira
  • Kobra
  • Li Mei
  • Nightwolf
  • Noob-Smoke
  • Shujinko
  • Sindel
  • Sub-Zero
  • Jade
  • Kabal
  • Kenshi
  • Liu Kang (Zombie)
  • Mileena
  • Raiden
  • Scorpion
  • Tanya
  • Ermac
  • Goro
  • Shao Kahn
  • Onaga (Boss)

Mortal Kombat: Armageddon (2006)

Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, released in 2006, aimed to be the ultimate Mortal Kombat experience by including nearly every character from the series up to that point. The game featured a new Kreate-A-Fighter mode and an extensive Konquest mode. Armageddon’s storyline focused on a final battle for the fate of the realms, culminating in an epic showdown at the Pyramid of Argus. This installment was notable for its sheer scale and ambition.

  • Taven
  • Daegon

Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe (2008)

In 2008, Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe was released, blending the Mortal Kombat world with the DC Comics universe. This crossover game featured a storyline that explained the merging of the two universes and included iconic characters from both. The game introduced a toned-down violence level to appeal to a broader audience, resulting in a Teen rating. Despite this, it was praised for its creative concept and engaging gameplay.

  • Baraka
  • Jax
  • Kano
  • Kitana
  • Liu Kang
  • Raiden
  • Scorpion
  • Shang Tsung
  • Sonya Blade
  • Sub-Zero

Mortal Kombat (2011)

Mortal Kombat (2011), also known as Mortal Kombat 9, was a reboot of the franchise that retold the story of the first three games. This installment featured a return to 2D fighting with 3D graphics and introduced the X-ray move mechanic. The game was lauded for its rich story mode, engaging gameplay, and nostalgic appeal. It marked a triumphant return for the series, revitalizing the Mortal Kombat brand.

  • Baraka
  • Cyrax
  • Ermac
  • Jade
  • Jax
  • Johnny Cage
  • Kabal
  • Kano
  • Kitana
  • Kratos (PS3 Exclusive)
  • Kung Lao
  • Liu Kang
  • Mileena
  • Nightwolf
  • Noob Saibot
  • Quan Chi
  • Raiden
  • Rain (DLC)
  • Reptile
  • Scorpion
  • Sektor
  • Shang Tsung
  • Sheeva
  • Sindel
  • Smoke
  • Sonya Blade
  • Stryker
  • Sub-Zero
  • Freddy Krueger (DLC)

Mortal Kombat X (2015)

Released in 2015, Mortal Kombat X continued the story from Mortal Kombat (2011) and introduced a new generation of fighters. The game featured a darker, more mature storyline and a revamped combat system. Mortal Kombat X introduced character variations, allowing players to choose different fighting styles for each character. The game was well-received for its deep gameplay, engaging story, and extensive roster of new and returning characters.

  • Cassie Cage
  • D'Vorah
  • Erron Black
  • Ferra/Torr
  • Jacqui Briggs
  • Kotal Kahn
  • Kung Jin
  • Takeda
  • Tremor (DLC)
  • Triborg (DLC)
  • Jason Voorhees (DLC)
  • Predator (DLC)
  • Leatherface (DLC)
  • Alien (DLC)

Mortal Kombat 11 (2019)

Mortal Kombat 11, released in 2019, is the latest main entry in the series. It introduced new mechanics, such as Fatal Blows and Krushing Blows, adding layers of strategy to the combat. The game’s story mode continued the narrative from Mortal Kombat X and featured time-travel elements. Mortal Kombat 11 also introduced a robust customization system, allowing players to personalize their fighters with various skins, gear, and abilities. The game was praised for its polished gameplay, stunning graphics, and comprehensive story mode.

  • Cetrion
  • Geras
  • Kollector
  • Kronika (Non-playable)
  • Skarlet
  • RoboCop (DLC)
  • The Joker (DLC)
  • Spawn (DLC)
  • Terminator T-800 (DLC)
  • Rambo (DLC)
  • Sheeva
  • Fujin
  • Mileena (DLC)
  • Rain (DLC)
  • Sindel (DLC)
  • Shang Tsung (DLC)
  • Nightwolf (DLC)
  • Shujinko (DLC)
  • Sindel (DLC)
  • Shang Tsung (DLC)

via GIPHY

From its classic arcade origins to modern consoles, Mortal Kombat's character roster has evolved, expanded, and continued to captivate fans with each new release. The franchise started with a modest lineup of fighters, but over the years, it has introduced a diverse array of new characters while evolving beloved originals. This continuous growth has kept the series fresh and exciting for long-time followers and newcomers alike. Whether you're nostalgic for the early days of digitized graphics and simple yet addictive gameplay or excited about the future with advanced visuals and intricate storylines, Mortal Kombat's legacy is a testament to its enduring appeal in the gaming world. Its ability to adapt and innovate while staying true to its core has cemented its place as a powerhouse in the fighting game genre.

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Posted 
Jul 28, 2024
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Jackson Hartley

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