Mortal Kombat 1: A Misleading Reboot?

The saga of the Mortal Kombat game series is not known for its strict adherence to naming conventions, and Mortal Kombat 1 didn't disappoint. Although the developers have consistently played fast and loose with their game titles, this new iteration revealed a surprising break from the trend. Instead of the predictable 'Mortal Kombat 12', we were presented with 'Mortal Kombat 1', a title that implied a fresh start but delivered quite the opposite.

In the Mortal Kombat series, the so-called reboot seems to be less about a fresh start and more about a continuation. The prominent "1" in the title and the talk of timeline resets might lead you to believe that this game is a new beginning, a perfect entry point for newcomers to the franchise. However, it becomes clear from the campaign's outset that Mortal Kombat 1 is heavily reliant on your knowledge of the series and its lore.

The campaign mode, for instance, begins by focusing on Shang Tsung's place in the new timeline, a direct continuation of Mortal Kombat 11's Aftermath DLC. It also leans heavily on the player's understanding of the character's significance in the series. This reliance on past knowledge extends throughout the game, with the introduction of characters and plot points that could be confusing for newcomers.

As you progress further into the campaign, the choice to name this game Mortal Kombat 1 becomes even more baffling. The narrative is an intricate web of characters either defying or fulfilling their known destinies, which can be quite engaging. However, without prior knowledge of these characters and their backstories, these plot twists may lose their impact. The game assumes a level of familiarity with the franchise that isn't necessarily present with all players.

In conclusion, while Mortal Kombat 1 continues the tradition of rebooting while also carrying on the same story, the game's title is somewhat misleading. Despite presenting itself as a timeline reset and soft reboot, the game's appeal lies primarily in the knowledge of the characters' pasts and potential futures. It's not the ideal starting point for those new to the series, but for long-time fans, it offers an intriguing twist on the Mortal Kombat narrative.