Difficulty:

Just Right

Time Spent:

10 to 20 Hours

The Bottom Line:

"Worth the wait"

Mortal Kombat was a game that took the 2D fighting genre by storm when it first released. The sequel, MK II , was even better, with it's fast gameplay and new characters. However, as the series evolved over time, it appeared that the developers had lost the plot somewhat and were deviating away from the core gameplay mechanics which entralled players the world over.

After a long wait, the latest installment to the series, Mortal Kombat has once again recaptured that lost magic. The gameplay is back in 2D, which is a welcome relief compared to the 3D gameplay in some of the earlier versions. Further, the fighting style has been inspired by the klassic MK II system. You have to be efficient not only in doling out damage, but also in avoiding your opponents barrage of attacks. The combo system is inspired! You can build your own combos using the simple building blocks provided for each character. The addition of a super meter akin to the Street Fighter series is a brilliant maneuver.
The meter fills up as you attack your opponents or get attacked by them. Once the meter is full, you can launch the so called X-ray moves. These moves are brutal and the slow mo which shows the opponents bones breaking and their internal organs being crushed brings groans from all who watch it happen. The gruesome fatalities are back with some easter eggs as well.
The character roster is another plus in this edition, with most of the game's beloved characters returning in all their glory. There is loads of content in this game including a story mode, where you play with fixed characters through the story of Mortal Kombat. This not only allows you to experience different character's fighting styles, but also throws some light on their individual storylines. Shao Kahn is however a really really annoying boss. He loves to spam you with unblockable moves, and in turn block all your moves. You will scream in frustration at times when you play him. The challenge tower is a fantastic addition where you have 300 challenges to pass, each of which tests you in different ways. Challenges like test your might, test your sight make their way back into the game. There is also a Koin system in the game where you earn koins by completing challenges or playing in the arcade mode. You can use these koins to purchase items from the krypt. The krypy contains many unlockables like alternate fatalities, alternate kostumes and so forth.
Online gaming is fun as well, where you have a King of the Hill mode where many players can watch others play until their turn comes. This is a throwback to the klassic arcade days.
Visually the game looks gorgeous with amazing environments and realistic damage. The sounds in the game are really cool as well, when jade's staff or kitana's fans making an awesome sound when used.
With the announcement of DLCs for the game, this is a must have for any gamer who loves the series, or wants to pick it up for the first time. Choose your destiny...