Mortal Kombat
Overview
"Mortal Kombat" is a franchise of fighting video games originally developed by Midway Games' Chicago studio in 1992. The development team was led by Ed Boon and John Tobias, and it was the first entry in the Mortal Kombat series. The game introduced many key aspects of the Mortal Kombat series, including its unique five-button control scheme and gory finishing moves.
Gameplay
The gameplay of Mortal Kombat involves a one-on-one, two-dimensional (2D) fighting model. Players control characters who have various attacks and moves, including special moves and the series' trademark gruesome finishing moves, known as Fatalities. These are complex command inputs that lead to cinematic sequences where the victorious character brutally finishes off their defeated opponent.
Characters
The Mortal Kombat series is known for its large roster of characters, many of whom have become iconic in the video game industry. Some of the most notable characters include Liu Kang, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Raiden.
Development and History
The first Mortal Kombat game was developed in 1992 by Midway Games' Chicago studio. The game was created as a response to the popular Street Fighter II game, which was dominating the fighting game market at the time. The development team, led by Ed Boon and John Tobias, sought to create a game that would be different from other fighting games. They introduced a unique five-button control scheme and a more cinematic presentation, including the use of digitized actors instead of hand-drawn sprites.
Impact and Legacy
The Mortal Kombat series has had a significant impact on the video game industry. It is credited with creating the "E" (Everyone) and "M" (Mature) ratings used by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), following controversy over its violent content. The series has also spawned numerous spin-offs, including a comic book series, a card game, and several live-action and animated films.