Throughout the summer, NetherRealm Studios has gradually revealed information about their upcoming title Mortal Kombat 1. Just today, the developer released their most recent update.
During Gamescom 2023, NetherRealm Creative Director Ed Boon walked onstage to debut the “Rulers of Outworld” Trailer, which revealed new main roster fighters such as General Shao and Sindel along with Kameo Fighters like Motaro and Shujinko. Following Mortal Kombat 1′s vision of reimagining the franchise, the trailer provided insights into how these classic characters fit into this new universe.
One of the key characters in this trailer is General Shao, formerly Mortal Kombat villain Shao Kahn. Instead of being the almighty ruler of Outworld, he is instead an esteemed military general of the realm. However, Shao maintains his bloodthirsty nature as he’d rather subject Outworld to endless war than be “Liu Kang’s lapdog”. As for cosmetic changes, a large battle axe replaces Shao’s signature Wrath Hammer, and he also has horns with a skull mask to mimic his iconic helmet design.
The other central character in this trailer is Sindel, the former Edenian queen and Shao Kahn’s wife. This marriage has been omitted from Mortal Kombat 1‘s new timeline as Sindel and Shao are seemingly professional in their new roles. Sindel is now the sole Empress of Outworld, hosting Liu Kang and his party for the next Mortal Kombat tournament.
Another character the trailer showcases is Raiden, who was confirmed during the Mortal Kombat 1 announcement. He holds the title of Earthrealm’s champion, switching mantles with Liu Kang in this New Era. Meanwhile, the latter will assume Raiden’s previous role in the franchise as the supernatural mentor. Following Liu Kang’s original journey, Raiden will apparently face off against Shao in Mortal Kombat.
Mortal Kombat 1 launches on September 19th for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Windows. Shang Tsung is currently available as a pre-order bonus; the pre-order beta ran from August 18th to August 21st. Kombat Pack is also included in the game’s Premium Edition.