Thursday, 12 March 2015

Preview: Mortal Kombat X (Multi-Platform)

mortal kombat x
Is it Mortal Kombat X or Mortal Kombat 10? It likely doesn't matter. After all, what's in a name, especially when it comes to Mortal Kombat. The series has proven that it's not afraid of trying new or unexpected things, like ravelling a story together that -- forgive me for saying this -- makes sense. So, what's new this time around? A non-linear storyline set 25 years beyond the events of the last game that features new characters, aged versions of familiar characters, and the progeny of some classic characters like Sonya Blade and Johnny Cage. 

mortal kombat x
If an expanded roster of characters wasn't enough, Mortal Kombat X will feature three variations of each character. "Variation" isn't defined solely as a different "skin" or look either; players will have access to different moves and by extension different combo possibilities. It might prove to be overwhelming for new players, but it will mean that experienced players will need to expand their own understanding of each character and their variations.

mortal kombat x
To keep players engaged week after week, one of Mortal Kombat X's "hooks" is Faction Wars. Players choose an allegiance to one of five factions then as players fight and collect points for their faction -- points are collected cross-platform! -- the victorious faction can earn special rewards. There's not a lot of detail on what the "special rewards" will be, but given Mortal Kombat's track record, it'll be something unexpected.

mortal kombat x
"Fatalities" are a mainstay of Mortal Kombat and those will return, alongside "Brutalities" which haven't been seen since Mortal Kombat 3. It'll be interesting to see what horrible violence will be dished out by the likes of Kano, Kung Lao, Mileena, Raiden, Sub-Zero, Jax, and Ermac, and what interactive elements in each fighting arena might make the fighting even more interesting.

Mortal Kombat X is set for launch on PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One on April 14, 2015.

- Aaron Simmer