The Mortal Kombat franchise has captivated gamers for decades with its intense battles and captivating storyline. Mortal Kombat 11, released in 2019, left fans with unanswered questions as multiple endings created uncertainty about the future direction of the series. However, the upcoming Mortal Kombat reboot, aptly titled Mortal Kombat 1, is set to provide clarity by definitively establishing which ending from Mortal Kombat 11 is canon.
With the release of the Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath expansion in 2020, players were presented with two distinct possibilities for the future. But Mortal Kombat 1 aims to set the record straight and establish the canon ending that will shape the franchise moving forward.
The Power of Fire God Liu Kang
In Mortal Kombat 11, players witnessed the merging of Raiden’s soul with Liu Kang, resulting in the emergence of the formidable Fire God Liu Kang. The climactic showdown between Fire God Liu Kang and the antagonist Kronika served as the backdrop for the three different endings in Mortal Kombat 11.
However, the most successful outcome saw Liu Kang preparing to protect the timeline and shape the future according to his vision. This victory laid the foundation for the subsequent events in the Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath DLC.
Two Paths, Two Endings
The Aftermath expansion provided players with a choice: continue the fight as Liu Kang or embrace the role of the classic antagonist, Shang Tsung.
Each path leads to different outcomes, with Liu Kang’s triumph resulting in the rebirth of the world in alignment with his intentions, while Shang Tsung’s victory paves the way for his dominion over the realms. These contrasting endings presented players with alternate visions of the future of Mortal Kombat.
The Canon Ending Revealed in Mortal Kombat 1
The official trailer for Mortal Kombat 1 indicates that the game will serve as a “new dawn” for the franchise. This suggests that the restored world shaped by Fire God Liu Kang will be the canon timeline moving forward.
In this version, Liu Kang prepares to train a new iteration of the Great Kung Lao, setting the stage for future tournaments and battles within this altered timeline.
A Fresh Start for Mortal Kombat
With Mortal Kombat 1, the series undergoes a reset, effectively wiping the slate clean and allowing for a fresh take on the iconic franchise. The tournaments that fans have come to know and love will be rejuvenated, possibly taking place in the past and introducing familiar characters in both recognizable and unexpected ways.
This approach breathes new life into the Mortal Kombat universe, providing an opportunity for innovative storytelling and thrilling gameplay.
Contrasting the Bad Ending
Had the Mortal Kombat reboot followed the bad ending of Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath, the stakes would have been raised to apocalyptic proportions. Shang Tsung’s actions would have ignited a desire for revenge among the characters, with his newfound god-like status presenting a monumental challenge.
This alternative storyline would have resulted in a more traditional Mortal Kombat sequel rather than the fresh start offered by the reboot in Mortal Kombat 1. While some fans may have preferred the dark and intense narrative of the bad ending, others can look forward to a back-to-basics approach with Mortal Kombat 1.
A Glimpse into the Future
As Mortal Kombat embraces a more merciful path by canonizing the good ending of Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath, it sets the stage for a positive outcome following the events of MK11. However, fans need not worry about a shortage of bloodshed and intense battles in the upcoming Mortal Kombat reboot.
Mortal Kombat 1 promises a fresh start, accompanied by a new era of violence and jaw-dropping fatalities that have become synonymous with the franchise. As more information about the setting and concept of the game is unveiled, excitement builds for the September 19 release date of Mortal Kombat 1, ushering in a new chapter in the beloved Mortal Kombat saga.
In conclusion, Mortal Kombat 1 is poised to resolve the lingering question of which ending from Mortal Kombat 11 is canon. By establishing the triumph of Fire God Liu Kang and the subsequent events in the Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath expansion, the reboot promises a revitalized and thrilling experience for fans of the franchise. With a fresh start, innovative storytelling, and intense battles on the horizon, Mortal Kombat 1 holds the key to a new era of Mortal Kombat excellence.
