Games

Is Mortal Kombat 1 Missing Out on Opportunities for More DLC Characters?

The future of Mortal Kombat 1's DLC could hold more potential for guest characters from the same franchise.
  • byGrace Kim
  • 20 DECEMBER, 2023
  • 201 DAYS 3 HRS
Is Mortal Kombat 1 Missing Out on Opportunities for More DLC Characters?

Highlights

  • Mortal Kombat 1's DLC roster may benefit from adding multiple fighters from the same franchise
  • The current Kombat Pack is a promising start, but there's room for more from guest franchises
  • Exploring additional characters from guest franchises could enhance the game's appeal and variety

Over the past decade, downloadable content (DLC) has become an integral part of the fighting game universe. While many fighting games initially boast an impressive roster consisting of franchise mainstays and a few newcomers, there's now an expectation that this roster will expand over time through DLC. Mortal Kombat 1 has been following this trend as well.

Prior to the game's release, the first DLC Kombat Pack for Mortal Kombat 1 was announced, featuring three franchise staples - Quan Chi, Ermac, and Takeda - alongside three guest characters - Peacemaker, Omni-Man, and Homelander. This initial wave of DLC has been well-received by fans, but there's potential for the game to explore further opportunities in future Kombat Packs.

Mortal Kombat 1's Kombat Pack: A Good Start

Embracing Multiple DLC Fighters from One Franchise

The release of Mortal Kombat 1's first DLC character, Omni-Man, has garnered positive feedback from fans. Voiced by J.K. Simmons and showcasing a unique moveset inspired by the source material, Omni-Man represents exceptional fan service in video games, setting a new standard for crossover characters in fighting games. With Omni-Man's success, anticipation for Peacemaker and Homelander has grown even stronger.

However, before players can experience Mortal Kombat 1's Peacemaker or Homelander, they will encounter two fighters they are already familiar with. Quan Chi is currently part of Mortal Kombat 1's Kombat Pack, and Ermac is set to join the roster prior to Homelander in Spring 2024. While these characters are integral to the Mortal Kombat universe, they have been featured in the majority of the series, and players have already encountered them in this game, as they appeared in the story mode. For many fans, their inclusion in the first wave of DLC feels somewhat repetitive, leading to discussions and considerations about potential alternatives.

The Untapped Potential of Guest Franchises

In the past, Mortal Kombat's guest fighters have typically been the main characters from their respective franchises, such as Jason from Friday the 13th, Leatherface from Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Predator, and Terminator. However, with Mortal Kombat 1, the approach has shifted. While Omni-Man is undeniably one of Invincible's most iconic characters, he is not the title character, and there is a growing desire to see Invincible introduced to Mortal Kombat 1 as well.

A similar sentiment applies to Homelander. While Homelander is a standout figure in The Boys, he is not the only popular character from the series, and there are other Boys characters that could seamlessly fit into the fighting game format. Characters like Queen Maeve, Starlight, Black Noir, Soldier Boy, and even a super-powered Billy Butcher could all serve as compelling additions to Mortal Kombat 1. In the future, Mortal Kombat should not shy away from bringing multiple characters from these franchises, as long as it aligns with fan preferences and makes sense within the game's context.

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