Deception is still the best 3D Mortal Kombat, way better than Armageddon and VS DC.
No online mode here on the gamecube version though. Midway have been very awesome to put two more characters, and two very cool characters. We're talking about Shao Kahn and Goro. I understand people saying that they can't replace the online mode, but to be honest, the best multiplayer mode is the one with your friend in your bedroom or living room. And how awesome was it to play those characters against your friends.
Since Armageddon, every characters are playable, but it's not the same. Shao Kahn and Goro and very better in Deception, like the other characters. I don't like Armageddon at all, and I still prefer this one. I still play it and enjoy it.