With how many fighting games have emerged throughout the years, there is no doubt that most if not all of them have borrowed elements in some form from the legendary Mortal Kombat franchise. From the decades of varying games to the Hollywood movies that have been produced (not all fan favorites), the series has no doubt left a heavy footprint in the gaming industry. Several days ago, the bloody and gruesome Mortal Kombat was finally inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame located at The Strong Museum in Rochester, New York.

Since its inception in 1992, Mortal Kombat has no doubt met its fair share of worldwide controversy stemming mostly from its extremely violent content. It was even a hot topic of discussion for law makers in Washington D.C. over whether or not video games such as these should be banned because of the potential effect that this type of game could have on young kids. However, persistence and creativity allowed the franchise to grow and become one of the most well-known fighting game in the history of gaming.

The entertaining, action-packed, and even comical storylines that have developed between longtime and new characters is also another reason that Mortal Kombat has thrived. The latest release of Mortal Kombat 11 late last month continued the longstanding franchise with all new mechanics, a slower fighting style for more strategic play, and some new characters. The iconic characters form these games and movies are known to gamers because classic sayings like, “Get over here!” They’ve also become widespread enough that these characters have made appearances in other video games like Injustice: Gods Among Us, NBA Jam Tournament Edition, and the crossover Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe.

NetherRealm Studios has done well in keeping the legacy positive for loyal players over the years. Mortal Kombat received this honor alongside another couple of classic titles, including: Super Mario Kart, the Solitaire available and built into the Microsoft Windows program, and Colossal Cave Adventure. These four titles beat out eight other profound finalists that are sure to join their ranks at some point in time such as Super Smash Bros. Melee and Half Life.