MORTAL KOMBAT 1: What’s Good? What’s Bad?! “Online Stress Test” Final Impressions
The Mortal Kombat franchise has been a staple in the fighting game community for decades. With the release of Mortal Kombat 1, fans are excited to see what new gameplay mechanics and features the game has to offer. After receiving the key from Warner for the “Online Stress Test” and after spend some time with the game (the available modes), I feel confident to share some thoughts and details about the upcoming MK game, Mortal Kombat 1.
The article will cover the speaker’s initial impressions and comparisons to Mortal Kombat 11, the gameplay mechanics, the cameo system, the combo system, the visuals and presentation, the speed and mobility, the input delay and release check, and final thoughts. Despite some concerns about the game’s speed and mobility, the speaker is excited about the game’s combo system and the potential of the cameo system.
Key Takeaways
- Mortal Kombat 1 offers a new gameplay experience with exciting new mechanics and features.
- The game’s Kombo system is a highlight, but the speed and mobility may be a concern for some players. There is elements from all previous games since MK9, but the combination results into a complete new game by its own. But, we know, some people will always complain.
- The KAMEO system has potential, but I wish it was more free-flowing. Let’s see what kind of interactions the other KAMEOs will bring after the oficial release.
Table of Contents
Initial Impressions and Comparisons
As you already noticed, I played Mortal Kombat 1 enough to, at least, build some initial impressions and comparisons with other Mortal Kombat games. Mortal Kombat 1 feels like the bones of the game are MK1 at heart and it definitely feels like MK11 in terms of doing neutral and special moves sometimes. However, there are a lot of new mechanics and systems that make it difficult to grasp the game in the first 30-60 minutes.
It’s possible to compare Mortal Kombat 1 to MK11, stating that MK11 was a game that they felt like they could figure out kinda fast after sometime on it, or focusing on a single character to master the mechanics before jump to other ones (I remember that I was able to do combos on my D1 after some time on training mode), but Mortal Kombat 1 is a bit more complex. BUT, the combos in Mortal Kombat 1 are crazy fun and deliver in every single regard, especially for players who wanted combos in MK11. You to extend your stuff, or variate combos between Kameos? Well, this game got you covered.
However, there are some “concerns” with the game, particularly with the slow speed of the game on some moments. The grounded movement, mobility, and speed of strings in the game are the slowest that they have seen in a Mortal Kombat game since MK9 I believe. Is the IMPUT DELAY there? YES! And sometimes it will trigger your “salty” side (lol) but, I’m “almost” sure NRS will work on that (I hope) before the game’s release.
The Kameo system in Mortal Kombat 1, which it the STAR here, is interesting and a good part of the game. However, I think that the Kameo system should have potential to be used for more things outside of just combo extensions and Breakers (3 bars breaker? That’s a lot! But OK).
Based on the available KAMEOS on the “Online Street Tests”, some interactions and combinations can limit the player’s control and feel a bit odd. Maybe this is the point, maybe not. I’m, when the releases the full version, there will be some OP (broken) duos that people will do some “MK Broke things”, and as result, THE META DUOS WILL APPEAR! Let’s just hope that everything will be “balanced”.
Overall, my initial impressions of Mortal Kombat 1 (just based on the Online Stress Test) are positive, with the game delivering crazy fun combos and interesting mechanics. The concerns are there, but, time will tell. Let’s continue:
Gameplay Mechanics
Mortal Kombat 1 introduces a lot of new mechanics and systems, making it a unique fighting game experience. The Kameo system, in particular, is a standout feature that allows players to call in other characters to perform specific actions during a match. While this system is interesting, it does have some limitations, such as not being able to use your character while the Cameo is active. But, for now, I think this is a minor issue, based on the available KAMEOs we got. It will be only possible to judge that feature when the full game out there.
One of the main draws of Mortal Kombat 1 is the combo system, which offers a wide range of options for players. Even without the Cameo system, characters have a lot of combo options, especially in the corner. Sub-Zero, Kenshi, and Liu Kang, in particular, have some impressive combos that are visually stunning. It proves that KOMBOS were one of the main goals on the development process and I think the players will be extremely happy with it.
However, Mortal Kombat 1 is not without its issues. The game is slow, with grounded movement and mobility feeling sluggish. The speed of strings in the game is also slower than in previous Mortal Kombat titles. Input delay is another issue that affects the gameplay, with release check being on by default and three extra frames of input delay online.
Despite these issues, Mortal Kombat 1 is attempting to do something that no other fighting game has done before, and it will be interesting to see how the game evolves over time. The game’s mechanics are unique and offer a lot of potential for players to explore, but it remains to be seen whether the game will have the lasting appeal of classic Mortal Kombat titles or MKX.
Kameo System
The Kameo System in Mortal Kombat 1 is a unique feature that allows players to call in other characters for assistance during a match. The system is still in development, but it is clear that it will play a significant role in the gameplay.
The Kameo System is not just a simple assist mechanic, but it is a complex system that requires players to figure out how to use it effectively combining the right elements and the correct character’s combinations and links. Each Kameo character has a specific role, and players must learn how to utilize them in different situations. For example, Kano allows players to have more neutral options, while Sonia’s is good for combo extensions.
However, the Kameo System has some limitations for now. Players cannot use their character while the Kameo is doing something, and some Kameos are only good for a specific thing. This lack of control can make the game feel slow and unresponsive at times. As I’ve said before above, maybe this is how the system is supposed to work and each Kameo Fighter will have specific set of skills that, combining with certain playable character it may work, or will not work AT ALL. Again, time will tell.
Despite its limitations, the Kameo System adds a new layer of depth to Mortal Kombat 1’s gameplay. It will be interesting to see how players develop strategies around utilizing the Kameos effectively. With more Kameos likely to be added in the future, the system has the potential to open up a lot of new gameplay possibilities. (With NO BROKEN DUOs of course! lol)
Combo System
The combo system in Mortal Kombat 1 is one of the standout features of the game, delivering on the promise of high-flying, fast-paced action that was lacking in previous titles. The combos are crazy fun and offer a lot of new options for players to explore. Even without Kameos, characters get a lot more combo options, which is a big plus for fans of the series.
Sub-Zero combo possibilities on the upcoming MK, MORTAL KOMBAT 1, are insane! MK1’s online stress test past weekend was awesome! Can’t wait to see the full roster.#mk1 #mk #MortalKombat1OnlineStressTest #MortalKombat2 #mortalkombat #mortalkombat1 #Xbox #MK1 #edboon #fgc pic.twitter.com/x2Q9a0FcGc
— Raphael Jorge (@oraphaeljorge) June 28, 2023
Combos are especially wild in the corner (YES, get ready to suffer in the corner), where they do some really cool-looking stuff. If you’re a fan of combos, then Mortal Kombat 1 is sure to deliver on that front.
Overall, the combo system in Mortal Kombat 1 is a big step up from previous titles in the series, offering more options and greater depth for players to explore. While there are some issues with the game’s movement and input delay, the combo system is definitely one of the game’s highlights.
Visuals and Presentation
The visuals and presentation of Mortal Kombat 1 are on a good and acceptable level. The game looks good, and the fatalities are particularly impressive. It’s possible to note that this is somewhat surface level, and I hope that MK1 will be a game that players will want to come back to and play for years ahead, similar to classic Mortal Kombat games.
The gameplay reveal of Mortal Kombat 1 at the “Summer Game Fast 2023” event sparked various opinions, with many suggesting a potential graphical downgrade in comparison to its predecessor, Mortal Kombat 11.
Upon observing the character design in Mortal Kombat 1, it becomes apparent that there is some dissatisfaction, particularly considering the expectation that a new game, with more resources and a higher budget, should be visually more stunning and refined than its predecessor. After all, a four-year gap in development typically results in significant advancements in this area. It is worth noting that Mortal Kombat 11 still impresses with its beautiful textures and intricate character details.
However, it is important to highlight that Mortal Kombat 1 also boasts well-crafted graphical elements. The environments are visually appealing, the game’s lighting is executed skillfully, and the colors possess a striking intensity. Additionally, the effects and particle work on character moves are impressive, sometimes even masking the sensation of a graphical downgrade in character design itself.
While it is understandable that some criticisms have arisen regarding the character design in Mortal Kombat 1, it is crucial to recognize that this is merely an initial evaluation point. It is likely that the development team at NetherRealm Studios will continue to refine and enhance the graphics as the game progresses. Initial impressions may evolve as more information and game versions are released.
It is essential to await the final version of Mortal Kombat 1 for a comprehensive and fair analysis. Until then, we will remain attentive to the updates and improvements that NetherRealm Studios will bring to the game.
Input Delay and Release Check
Mortal Kombat 1 has been receiving mixed reviews since its beta release, and one of the major concerns that players have is the input delay and release check. There’s a lot of input delay in MK1, and it feels like there’s even more than previous games. The default setting of release check is on, which is causing a lot of input delay caked into the game.
The dashes don’t move at all, and the walk speed kind of feels fast in general. The jumps are super floaty and slow, which is adding to the overall sluggishness of the game. Maybe we just need to get used to it right? We did that on the previous games since MK9. All previous games presented different features, timing, inputs, mechanics, etc. Since it’s not broken, and it’s fun (and make sense) we just need to adapt and get used to it.
Looks like the online mode has some extra frames of input delay (as expected right?) , which is can add some frustration sometimes, but we need to considere that this is A ONLINE STREES TEST build of the game. Actually, by inviting people to play the game online for the first time EVER, is the best way to find bugs, and work on the net code focusing on the game’s final version (release version) with the best On Line features NRS dev team can provide.
YES, I have the SAME QUESTION in my mind – CROSS PLAY! Unfortunately, this info still unknown. Fingers crossed right?
Final Thoughts
After spending around 8+ hours playing Mortal Kombat 1, I got a better understanding of the game and it’s potential, risks and concerns. Overall, I still excited about the game I truly believe that the addition of new features will open up a lot of possibilities.
One of the highlights of Mortal Kombat 1 is the Kameo system, which is super interesting and there is tons of thing to explore. While some Kameos (the tested ones) are limited to specific roles, others can be used more freely, making the game more interesting. The combos in the game are also super fun, and the players who wanted more combos in MK11 (as myself) will love this game.
Despite these concerns (sorry, tons of “concerns” on this article. But I think is the best way to put this first impressions into words), I think that Mortal Kombat 1 is trying to do something completely NEW for the FGC.
Overall, I AM optimistic about the game and people will love it. Let’s hope for a good “Release Day” and see you on the “Salty” Kombat League. (We still don’t know if MK1 will have a Kombat League, but you got the reference right?).
Mortal Kombat 1 BETA Access
Get Early Access Beta When You Pre-Order Mortal Kombat 1! To gain access to the Mortal Kombat 1 Beta, which will be available in August 2023, pre-order the game for the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X|S.
How to Buy
The Mortal Kombat 1 Kollector’s Edition is available for pre-order now. You can pre-order it from your favorite retailer. But you can GET IT NOW on the following links:
– RAPHAEL JORGE (Quest Log Games)
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter
One Comment