Summary
- Release Year: 1997
- Genres: Fighting, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Platform
- Platforms: Nintendo 64, PlayStation
- Developers: Avalanche Software, Midway Games
- Publishers: Gradiente
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero (1997)
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero is a side-scrolling action-adventure fighting game developed by Midway Games and released for the PlayStation and Nintendo 64 in 1997. It is a spin-off of the Mortal Kombat fighting game series and serves as a prequel to the original Mortal Kombat game. The game follows the titular character, Sub-Zero, as he travels through various realms in search of an ancient artifact known as the Amulet of Shinnok.
Gameplay in Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero is a mix of fighting and platforming. The player controls Sub-Zero as he runs, jumps, and fights his way through a variety of levels. Sub-Zero’s combat abilities are similar to those in the Mortal Kombat fighting games, and he can perform a variety of punches, kicks, and special moves. The game also features a number of puzzles that the player must solve in order to progress.
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and engaging story. The game has been cited as one of the best spin-offs in the Mortal Kombat series and is still enjoyed by fans today.
Story
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero takes place before the events of the original Mortal Kombat game. The game follows Sub-Zero as he is sent by his sorcerer master, Quan Chi, to retrieve an ancient artifact known as the Amulet of Shinnok. The amulet is said to contain the power to control all of the realms, and Quan Chi plans to use it to conquer Earthrealm.
Sub-Zero’s journey takes him through a variety of realms, including the Netherrealm, the Outworld, and Edenia. Along the way, he encounters a number of enemies, including Scorpion, Noob Saibot, and Smoke. Sub-Zero must also overcome a number of obstacles, such as traps, puzzles, and hazardous environments.
In the end, Sub-Zero is able to retrieve the Amulet of Shinnok and return it to Quan Chi. However, Quan Chi betrays Sub-Zero and uses the amulet to attack Earthrealm. Sub-Zero is forced to fight his way through Quan Chi’s forces and ultimately defeat him.
Gameplay
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero is a side-scrolling action-adventure fighting game. The player controls Sub-Zero as he runs, jumps, and fights his way through a variety of levels. Sub-Zero’s combat abilities are similar to those in the Mortal Kombat fighting games, and he can perform a variety of punches, kicks, and special moves. The game also features a number of puzzles that the player must solve in order to progress.
One of the unique features of Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero is its use of digitized sprites. The characters and backgrounds in the game are all rendered using digitized images of real actors and objects. This gives the game a unique look and feel that is different from other fighting games of the era.
Characters
- Sub-Zero: The main playable character of the game. Sub-Zero is a Lin Kuei assassin who is sent by Quan Chi to retrieve the Amulet of Shinnok.
- Scorpion: A wraith who is Sub-Zero’s arch-rival. Scorpion seeks revenge on Sub-Zero for killing his family.
- Noob Saibot: A black ninja who is Sub-Zero’s doppelgänger. Noob Saibot is a mysterious and powerful fighter who serves Quan Chi.
- Smoke: A gray ninja who is Sub-Zero’s ally. Smoke is a skilled fighter who is loyal to Sub-Zero.
- Quan Chi: A sorcerer who is the main antagonist of the game. Quan Chi plans to use the Amulet of Shinnok to conquer Earthrealm.
Development
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero was developed by Midway Games and released for the PlayStation and Nintendo 64 in 1997. The game was directed by Ed Boon and John Tobias, who were also the creators of the original Mortal Kombat game.
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero was a significant departure from the traditional Mortal Kombat fighting games. The game’s side-scrolling gameplay and focus on exploration and puzzle-solving were new to the series. However, the game still retained the signature violence and gore that the Mortal Kombat series is known for.
Reception
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and engaging story. The game sold over two million copies worldwide and was one of the best-selling games of 1997.
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero has been cited as one of the best spin-offs in the Mortal Kombat series. The game’s unique gameplay and memorable characters have made it a fan favorite.
Legacy
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero has had a lasting impact on the Mortal Kombat series. The game’s side-scrolling gameplay and focus on exploration and puzzle-solving would be used in future Mortal Kombat games, such as Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks and Mortal Kombat: Armageddon.
The game’s characters have also become fan favorites. Sub-Zero, Scorpion, and Noob Saibot have all gone on to become major characters in the Mortal Kombat series.
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero is a classic Mortal Kombat game that is still enjoyed by fans today. The game’s unique gameplay, stunning graphics, and engaging story make it a must-play for any fan of the series.
Review Score
7.5/10
