Game Changer: The Impact of Mortal Kombat
Mortal Kombat Shook the Gaming Industry to its Core
Mortal Kombat was released in 1992 and immediately took the gaming world by storm. It was unlike anything that had been seen before, featuring intense violence and stunning graphics. The graphics were so realistic, in fact, that it provoked international controversy—the first of its kind for the gaming industry. A fierce debate about whether or not video games should be censored ensued, and ultimately resulted in the establishment of the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in 1994.
The game also took the industry by surprise with its innovative play mechanics. The combination of movelists and special moves was something that had never been seen before. The ability to show different fatalities, or special moves used to finish off opponents, pushed the boundaries of what was possible to achieve in a game, and they went on to become a staple of the Mortal Kombat franchise. In fact, they were originally kept hidden in the game, as the developers weren’t sure if they would be allowed through regulation.
Mortal Kombat Opened up the Possibilities for Fighting Games
The success of Mortal Kombat spawned an entire genre of games. Fighting games quickly rose to popularity, as many gamers saw the appeal of the game’s fast-paced action and intense competition. It wasn’t long before other franchises such as Street Fighter, Tekken, and Soulcalibur appeared. These games featured innovations of their own, but it was clear that Mortal Kombat had set the benchmark for the genre.
Mortal Kombat Movies and Television Series
Mortal Kombat was so popular that it quickly made its way into other forms of media. A live action movie was released in 1995, grossing over $122 million on a shoestring budget. This was followed by a critically acclaimed animated series, which featured voice actors from the game. Furthermore, there have been comic books based on the series and even a live-action television series which premiered in 2018. The eternal popularity of the franchise has meant that there have been numerous games released, each with their own innovations and ideas.
Conclusion
Mortal Kombat changed the gaming industry and its impact can still be felt today. It revolutionized the way fighting games were made, inspiring developers to find new and exciting ways to push the boundaries of what was possible. Its blend of violent action and exquisite graphics solidified its place in gaming history, securing its status as a classic and ensuring that it will remain a favorite for many years to come.