5 Easy Tips To Play Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat gameplay
How To Play Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat is a fighting game series created by Midway Games in 1992. The games are known for their over-the-top violence and gore, as well as their unique fighting system, which allows players to perform a variety of special moves and combos. Mortal Kombat has been a huge success over the years, and has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations. If you’re interested in getting into the Mortal Kombat series, but you don’t know where to start, this guide will teach you everything you need to know to get started.

In Mortal Kombat, players control one of a roster of characters and fight against each other in one-on-one battles. The goal of the game is to reduce your opponent’s health to zero by performing special moves, combos, and throws. Mortal Kombat is a fast-paced and action-packed game, and it can be a lot of fun to play. However, the game can also be quite difficult, especially for beginners. That’s why it’s important to practice and learn the basics of the game before you start playing online or against other players.

One of the most important things to learn in Mortal Kombat is how to perform special moves. Special moves are powerful attacks that can deal a lot of damage to your opponent. Each character has their own unique set of special moves, so it’s important to learn which ones are the most effective. You can perform special moves by inputting a specific combination of buttons on your controller. Once you’ve learned how to perform a few special moves, you’ll be able to start putting together combos. Combos are sequences of attacks that deal multiple hits to your opponent. Combos can be very effective for dealing damage and building up your meter, which you can use to perform even more powerful attacks.

Mastering the Controls

In Mortal Kombat, mastering the controls is crucial for success. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you dominate the realm:

Directional Inputs

Directional inputs are the foundation of Mortal Kombat’s gameplay. Utilize the D-pad or analog stick to execute the following movements:

Input	Action
Forward (F)	Moves the character forward
Backward (B)	Moves the character backward
Down-Forward (DF)	Moves the character forward and crouches simultaneously
Down-Backward (DB)	Moves the character backward and crouches simultaneously
Up-Forward (UF)	Moves the character forward and jumps simultaneously
Up-Backward (UB)	Moves the character backward and jumps simultaneously

Button Inputs

Mortal Kombat employs a series of buttons for attacking, defending, and performing special moves:

Button	Function
Punch (□ / X)	Executes punches ranging from light to heavy
Kick (Δ / A)	Executes kicks ranging from light to heavy
Block (L1 / LB)	Defends against attacks by holding down
Run (R1 / RB)	Makes the character run while holding down

Understanding the Characters

Mortal Kombat features a diverse roster of characters, each with unique abilities, strengths, and weaknesses. Understanding these characters and their playstyles is crucial to success in the game.

### Role and Class

Role	Class
Assassin	Special Forces
Commando	Outworld
Grappler	Earthrealm
Martial Artist	Netherrealm
Ninja	Edenia

The role of a character determines their primary function on the battlefield, such as damage dealing, tanking, or support. The class of a character influences their overall stats, move sets, and playstyles. For example, assassins are known for their agility and high burst damage, while commandos are more durable and versatile.

### Strengths and Weaknesses

Each character in Mortal Kombat possesses specific strengths and weaknesses. Identifying these attributes is essential for strategic decision-making. For instance, a character with high zoning capabilities may excel at keeping opponents at bay, while a character with strong mix-ups can be devastating up close.

Learning the Special Moves

Understanding Input Notation

Special moves in Mortal Kombat are executed using specific button combinations and directional inputs. The notation for these inputs uses the following conventions:

L: Left
R: Right
U: Up
D: Down
F: Forward
B: Back
QCF: Quarter-Circle Forward (from D, L to F, U)
QCB: Quarter-Circle Back (from D, R to F, U)
HCB: Half-Circle Back (from D, R to F, D, B)

Basic Special Moves

Most characters have a set of basic special moves that can be performed with simple input commands. These moves typically have limited range and damage but are useful for initiating combos or establishing pressure.

Character	Special Move
Scorpion	Spear
Sub-Zero	Slide
Raiden	Torpedo
Liu Kang	Fireball
Sonya Blade	Leg Sweep

Advanced Special Moves

Advanced special moves require more complex inputs and typically have greater range, damage, or utility. These moves can be difficult to master but can give players a significant advantage in combat.

One notable type of advanced special move is the “teleport.” Teleports allow characters to move quickly across the screen, surprise opponents, or escape pressure. Characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Raiden have iconic teleports that can be used for both offensive and defensive purposes.

Another common type of advanced special move is the “armored move.” Armored moves give characters temporary invulnerability to attacks, allowing them to absorb damage and continue their offensive. Characters like Ermac, Shao Kahn, and Jax have armored moves that can turn the tide of battle in their favor.

By mastering both basic and advanced special moves, players can unlock the full potential of their characters and significantly improve their gameplay.

Executing Fatalities

Fatalities are special finishing moves in Mortal Kombat that can be executed by the player when their opponent’s health is low enough. To perform a Fatality, the player must input a specific sequence of buttons and directions during the match. The timing and accuracy of the input is crucial, as missing even one button or direction can result in the Fatality failing. Fatalities are unique to each character and add an extra level of skill and entertainment to the game.

Here is a step-by-step guide to executing Fatalities in Mortal Kombat:

1. Check the Fatality List: Before attempting to perform a Fatality, check the game’s Fatality list to see which button sequences are associated with each character. Fatality lists can be found in the game’s instruction manual or online.

2. Input the Sequence: Once you have selected the desired Fatality, input the corresponding button sequence during the match. The input must be executed quickly and accurately to succeed.

3. Perform the Finishing Move: If the input is correct, the character will perform the Fatality’s finishing move, which often involves a gruesome or humorous animation.

4. Practice and Timing: Executing Fatalities requires practice and perfect timing. It’s recommended to practice the inputs in Training Mode before attempting them in a real match. Additionally, the execution window for Fatalities is often small, so players must be able to recognize the right moment to input the sequence.

Character	Fatality Sequence
Scorpion	Down, Forward, Left, Up, Right & 2
Sub-Zero	Down, Up, Right, Down, Left, Left
Liu Kang	Back, Forward, Down, Back, Forward & 2

Playing Online Modes

Mortal Kombat offers several online modes for players to compete and socialize against each other. Here’s a detailed guide to each mode:

Ranked Mode

Ranked Mode pits you against other players of similar skill levels. You’ll earn Kombat Points (KP) for winning matches, and losing will deduct points. As you accumulate KP, you’ll rank up and face increasingly challenging opponents.

Kasual Mode

Kasual Mode is a more relaxed online experience where you can experiment with different characters and strategies without affecting your rank. There are no KP rewards or penalties in this mode.

King of the Hill Mode

King of the Hill mode places you in a lobby with a group of players. The current “king” is the player who has won the most consecutive matches. Others can challenge the king by winning rounds against them. The king retains their position until they are defeated.

Player Match Mode

Player Match Mode allows you to create or join custom game lobbies with specific settings and invite friends or other players to join. You can set the rules, stage, and modifiers for the match.

Towers of Time Mode

Towers of Time Mode is a single-player campaign that features a series of AI-controlled opponents with varying difficulty levels. Players can complete these towers to earn rewards, unlock skins, and progress through the story mode.

Strategies for Beginners

Starting out in Mortal Kombat can be overwhelming with its vast cast of characters and complex mechanics. Here are a few strategies to help beginners get started and improve their gameplay:

Master the Basics

Begin by learning the basic controls, including movement, attacks, and blocking. Practice performing special moves and combos in Training Mode to get familiar with your chosen character’s capabilities.

Choose aBeginner-Friendly Character

Select a character that is relatively easy to use and has well-rounded abilities. Scorpion, Sub-Zero, or Raiden are good choices for beginners as they offer a balance of offense and defense.

Utilize Special Moves and Combos

Special moves are powerful attacks that can turn the tide of a match. Learn and practice the special moves of your chosen character. Additionally, practice chaining together combos for maximum damage.

Learn to Block and Counter

Blocking is essential for defense in Mortal Kombat. Holding back or down-back blocks high or low attacks, respectively. When an opponent attacks, block and counter with your own attacks or special moves to punish them.

Understand Frame Data

Frame data refers to the number of frames it takes for an attack to start up and recover. Learning frame data can help you determine when your attacks are vulnerable and when you can safely attack your opponent.

Practice and Experiment

The best way to improve your gameplay is through practice and experimentation. Play matches against the AI or online against other players to gain experience and discover different strategies and tactics.

Spacing and Movement

Proper spacing is crucial in Mortal Kombat. Maintain a safe distance from your opponent to avoid being caught in their attacks. Use movement options such as dashes, jumps, and rolls to control the distance and create opportunities for offense.

Advanced Techniques

7. Mastering Combos

Combos are the bread and butter of Mortal Kombat. They allow you to chain together multiple attacks for maximum damage. Mastering combos requires practice and execution, but the rewards can be devastating. Here are some tips for mastering combos:

Learn the basic combos for your character first. Most characters have a set of basic combos that can be used in most situations. Once you have the basics down, you can start to experiment with more advanced combos.
Practice, practice, practice! The only way to get better at combos is to practice them regularly. Find a training partner or practice against the computer until you can execute your combos consistently.
Be creative. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combos. The best combos are the ones that you create yourself.

Here are some resources that can help you learn more about combos:

In addition to the basic combos, there are also several advanced combo techniques that can be used to maximize your damage output. Here is a table that summarizes some of the most common advanced combo techniques:

Technique	Description
Launcher	A move that launches your opponent into the air, allowing you to follow up with a combo.
Ender	A move that ends a combo and deals significant damage.
Meter Burn	A special move that can be enhanced by spending meter.
Krushing Blow	A special move that deals bonus damage if it meets certain conditions.
Fatal Blow	A super powerful move that can only be used once per match.

Overcoming Challenges

Mastering the Special Moves

Each character possesses unique special moves. Practice executing them consistently to gain an advantage in combat.

Countering Throws

Throws can interrupt your attacks. Learn the timing to break free by pressing either button or simultaneously.

Blocking High and Low Attacks

High attacks can be blocked by holding up, while low attacks require you to hold down. Block appropriately to avoid taking damage.

Utilizing Combos

Combine basic attacks into combos to deal more damage. Practice different sequences to discover the most effective ones for each character.

Dodging Projectiles

Projectiles travel across the screen and can be difficult to avoid. Use side dodges (← or →) or crouches to avoid getting hit.

Managing Your Health and Energy

Your health bar indicates your remaining health, while the energy bar fuels your special moves. Use health items to restore health and regain energy gradually over time.

Overcoming Stage Hazards

Some stages feature hazardous elements like spikes or pits. Be aware of these dangers and adjust your strategy accordingly to avoid getting caught out.

Dealing with Zoners

Zoners keep their distance and rely on projectiles. To counter them, use characters with strong zoning abilities or rush them down with close-range attacks while avoiding their projectiles.

Tournament Preparation

Participating in a Mortal Kombat tournament is an exhilarating experience. However, meticulous preparation is crucial to maximize your chances of victory.

Character Selection

Choose a character that aligns with your playstyle and preferences. Consider their strengths, weaknesses, and special moves. Familiarize yourself with their combos and abilities to effectively utilize them during gameplay.

Practice and Training

Dedicate countless hours to practice and develop muscle memory. Engage in practice matches against opponents of varying skill levels to hone your skills and identify areas for improvement.

Tournament Rules and Regulations

Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the tournament rules and regulations. Understand the time limits, the stage hazards, and the penalties for breaking rules. Knowing these details will help you avoid unnecessary disqualifications.

Mental and Physical Preparation

Mental preparation is as vital as physical training. Maintain a focused mindset, remain composed under pressure, and avoid making impulsive decisions. Ensure you are well-rested and hydrated before the tournament.

Equipment and Gear

Choose a comfortable and responsive controller that suits your grip and playstyle. Ensure your console or PC is optimized for smooth gameplay without any technical glitches.

Warm-up and Cool-down

Begin the tournament with a thorough warm-up to prepare your muscles and reflexes. After the tournament, engage in a cool-down session to prevent muscle soreness and injuries.

Observing and Analyzing

Pay attention to your opponents’ playstyles, techniques, and weaknesses. Analyze their strategies and adjust your gameplay accordingly. This will help you gain an advantage and anticipate their moves.

Match Preparation

Before each match, take a moment to reset your mindset, focus on your game plan, and adapt to the stage environment. Understand the stage layout and potential hazards to your advantage.

Staying Hydrated

Throughout the tournament, stay adequately hydrated. Dehydration can hinder your focus and reaction time, affecting your overall performance. Bringing your own water bottle is highly recommended.

Tournament Preparation Checklist
Character Selection
Practice and Training
Tournament Rules and Regulations
Mental and Physical Preparation
Equipment and Gear
Warm-up and Cool-down
Observing and Analyzing
Match Preparation
Staying Hydrated

10. The History of Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat has a rich and storied history that spans over three decades. The first game in the series was released in 1992 and quickly became a global phenomenon. The game’s unique blend of violence, gore, and humor appealed to a wide range of players.

Mortal Kombat has been praised for its innovative gameplay, which introduced new features such as “fatalities” and “brutalities.” The game has also been criticized for its graphic violence, which has led to it being banned in several countries.

Despite the controversy, Mortal Kombat has remained one of the most popular fighting games in the world. The series has sold over 50 million copies worldwide and has been ported to a variety of platforms.

The following table provides a timeline of key events in Mortal Kombat history:

Year	Event
1992	Mortal Kombat is released in arcades.
1993	Mortal Kombat II is released in arcades.
1995	Mortal Kombat 3 is released in arcades.
1996	Mortal Kombat Trilogy is released in arcades.
1997	Mortal Kombat 4 is released in arcades.
1999	Mortal Kombat 5 is released in arcades.
2000	Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance is released on consoles.
2002	Mortal Kombat: Tournament Edition is released on consoles.
2004	Mortal Kombat: Deception is released on consoles.
2006	Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks is released on consoles.
2007	Mortal Kombat: Armageddon is released on consoles.
2011	Mortal Kombat is released on consoles.
2015	Mortal Kombat X is released on consoles.
2019	Mortal Kombat 11 is released on consoles.

How to Play Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat is a fighting game that has been around for over 25 years. It is known for its brutal violence and gore, as well as its iconic characters and gameplay. If you want to get into Mortal Kombat, here are a few things you need to know.

The first thing you need to do is choose a character. There are over 30 characters to choose from, each with their own unique moves and abilities. Some characters are better for beginners than others, so it’s a good idea to start with one of the easier characters, such as Scorpion or Sub-Zero.

Once you have chosen a character, you need to learn their moves. Each character has a variety of moves, including punches, kicks, throws, and special moves. You can learn these moves by reading the game’s manual or by practicing in the practice mode.

When you are ready to play, you can choose to play against a computer opponent or a human opponent. If you are playing against a computer opponent, you can choose the difficulty level. If you are playing against a human opponent, you can play online or offline.

To win a match, you need to defeat your opponent by depleting their health bar. You can do this by landing attacks on your opponent. The more damage you do, the faster your opponent’s health bar will deplete.

Mortal Kombat is a challenging game to master, but it can be a lot of fun. If you are looking for a fighting game that is full of action and gore, Mortal Kombat is the perfect game for you.