Summary

Release Year: 1993
Genres: Fighting
Platforms: Amiga, Arcade, DOS, PlayStation, PlayStation 3, Sega 32X, Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Sega Saturn, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Developers: Midway
Publishers: Acclaim Entertainment, Midway, Playtronic, Tec Toy

Mortal Kombat II: The Tournament Continues

Released in 1993, Mortal Kombat II is the second installment in the groundbreaking fighting game series. Developed by Midway Games, it was an instant critical and commercial success, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor and becoming one of the most iconic video games of all time.

Gameplay

Mortal Kombat II retains the core gameplay mechanics of the original game, featuring one-on-one combat between a roster of diverse fighters. Players choose from a variety of characters, each with their own unique abilities and special moves. The game introduces several new gameplay elements, including:

Run button: Allows characters to run forward or backward, adding a new layer of strategy and mobility to the combat.
Air blocking: Players can now block attacks while in the air, giving them more defensive options.
Throws: Characters can now grab and throw their opponents, adding a new dimension to close-quarters combat.
Fatalities: The over-the-top finishing moves that became synonymous with the series make their debut in Mortal Kombat II, offering a gruesome and satisfying way to end a match.

Characters

Mortal Kombat II features a roster of seven returning characters from the original game, as well as four new fighters:

Liu Kang: The Shaolin monk and protagonist of the series returns with his signature bicycle kick and fireballs.
Johnny Cage: The Hollywood action star brings his trademark arrogance and flashy moves to the tournament.
Sonya Blade: The Special Forces operative is back with her array of martial arts skills and energy blasts.
Scorpion: The undead ninja returns with his iconic spear and teleporting abilities.
Sub-Zero: The cryomancer returns with his ice powers and signature fatality that freezes his opponents solid.
Raiden: The thunder god makes his playable debut, wielding his lightning powers and teleportation abilities.
Kitana: Princess of Edenia, Kitana is a skilled assassin who wields fans and razor-sharp projectiles.
Mileena: Kitana’s evil clone, Mileena, is a savage fighter with razor-sharp teeth and a teleportation ability.
Baraka: A Tarkatan warrior from Outworld, Baraka is a brutal fighter who uses his razor-sharp blades and projectile spit.
Jax: A Special Forces major, Jax is a powerful fighter who uses his cybernetic arms to devastating effect.
Kung Lao: Liu Kang’s Shaolin brother, Kung Lao uses his razor-rimmed hat and teleportation abilities in combat.

Story

The story of Mortal Kombat II picks up where the original game left off. Shang Tsung, the evil sorcerer from Outworld, has been defeated, but he has vowed to return for revenge. To prepare for his return, the Earthrealm warriors hold a new tournament on a remote island.

Shang Tsung, however, has not been idle. He has formed an alliance with Shao Kahn, the emperor of Outworld, and together they plan to invade Earthrealm and conquer it. The Earthrealm warriors must now fight not only for their own survival, but for the fate of their world.

Graphics and Sound

Mortal Kombat II boasts improved graphics over its predecessor, with more detailed character sprites and backgrounds. The game’s animation is also smoother and more fluid, resulting in a more visually appealing and immersive experience.

The sound design is also top-notch, with memorable sound effects and music that perfectly capture the game’s atmosphere. The iconic “Mortal Kombat” theme song, composed by The Immortals, has become synonymous with the series and is still instantly recognizable today.

Legacy

Mortal Kombat II was a massive success, selling over 15 million copies worldwide. It is credited with popularizing the fighting game genre and is considered one of the most influential video games of all time. The game’s success spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations, including movies, TV shows, and comics.

Mortal Kombat II is also remembered for its high level of violence and gore. The game’s fatalities were particularly controversial, and led to a number of calls for censorship. However, the game’s violence also became a major selling point, and helped to establish Mortal Kombat as a mature and edgy franchise.

Conclusion

Mortal Kombat II is a timeless classic that revolutionized the fighting game genre. With its brutal fatalities, iconic characters, and innovative gameplay, it remains a fan favorite to this day. The game’s legacy is undeniable, and it continues to inspire and entertain gamers around the world.