The second half of 2023 is packed, with NetherRealm Studios’ Mortal Kombat 1 confirmed for September. Following the announcement trailer, the developer provided new details on returning characters, what Kameo Fighters are, and more.
Liu Kang, Scorpion, Raiden, Kung Lao, Kitana, Shang Tsung, Mileena and Sub-Zero are confirmed in the trailer. However, Johnny Cage also returns and has a new skin in the Kombat Pack that grants the likeness of actor Jean Claude Van Damme. Each character has otherwise been “reimagined” in different ways.
As for Kameo Fighters, they’re described as “a unique roster of partner characters to assist during matches, creating expanded gameplay possibilities for players. These characters are chosen separately from the main roster of fighters.” Story Mode will provide a new cinematic narrative with “unexpected twists on classic rivalries and original backstories for the wide-ranging cast of legendary fighters.”
Details on other offline and online modes are coming soon. Perhaps most importantly, Mortal Kombat 1 is playable offline, though certain features require internet access. Unfortunately, you’ll need Xbox Live Gold, Nintendo Switch Online and PlayStation Plus for online matches (which support rollback netcode).
Mortal Kombat 1 is out on September 19th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch. Premium and Kollector’s Edition owners can get early access on September 14th and access to a beta in August.