Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns review: the action succeeds, the story fails

Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns Review

Mortal Kombat 1 ushered in a new era for the franchise, not only establishing a new timeline but also introducing gameplay features to create a truly exciting fighter. With the release of Khaos Reigns, the game takes a bold step forward, offering a new cinematic campaign and six additional fighters. Along with updates to improve the base game, could this expansion be the most impactful in the series' history?

After a tough battle, Havik enters the timeline and watches the massacre, continuing from the post-credits scene of the original campaign. With the sole objective of causing chaos in the kingdom, he and his team unleash a savage tirade against those who inhabit the world. To protect the timeline, Lui Kang forms alliances with friends and enemies to fight a greater threat. While his design is sublime, Havik's motives are superficial and lack the complexity of a villain of his magnitude. Because of this, the overall narrative does not live up to the quality that resides throughout the original.

anarchy reigns

Like previous NetherRealm entries, the chapters follow different characters. This is where the smallest stories live and personalities grow. Ed Boon has done an incredible job fleshing out the characters in the world and this continues in Khaos Reigns. From the beginning, we are introduced to a new female version of Cyrax through a wonderfully constructed scene in which she is chased through the forest. Wide camera angles highlight the Hollywood influence in the scenes, helping make every moment feel like it's on the big screen. While faithful to her master's teachings, she begins to question his intentions, as his goal is to harm anyone who stands in his way. Every emotion is accentuated through stunning performances and facial animations that increase engagement with the narrative.

In addition to the campaign, you'll also get Kombat Pack 2. This sees the return of fan favorites Cyrax, Sektor, and Noob Saibot. Cyrax can use a variety of devices to gain an advantage on the battlefield. Using bombs and web projectiles, you can set up sequences and perform extended combos to achieve victory. Zoning fans will excel with the character due to the number of offensive outlets available in his arsenal. Although similar in design, Sektor is much more aggressive and perfect for a fast-paced playstyle. With homing missiles and teleportation, you can increase the pressure to overwhelm your opponent.

Come here!

Noob Saibot is my personal favorite and a great addition to the list. With his Shadow Clone abilities, he is a versatile character that can adapt to any situation you encounter. You can control space with projectiles, close gaps with your teleportation, and deal significant damage with multiple combos. Featuring some of the biggest and most grotesque kills, he's a fantastic addition that brings strategic depth and brutal execution to any matchup.

Although it's not available yet, you'll also have access to three guest characters, each of whom look amazing. The savagery of Conan the Barbarian and Ghostface's iconic state of terror make them a perfect fit. The T-1000 is another great addition, however, I would have loved to see the T-800 from MK11 return to experience the legendary battle of Terminator 2.

Return of classic features

As part of the update, free content is also available for all players. The Animalities return and watch your chosen Kombatant transform into a creature and annihilate your opponent in gruesome but hilarious ways. Plus, the fan-favorite mode, Towers of Time, is now available. This includes rotating challenges and in-game events with a variety of rewards. The inclusion of these completes the game and helps improve the experience.

Mortal Kombat 1: Khaos Reigns features three well-rounded veterans who add even more variety and depth to an already strong roster. Guest characters inject personality into the game, giving you the opportunity to create memorable encounters with iconic figures from video games, movies, comics, and television. While the campaign offers incredible sequences full of cinematic style, it falls short in narrative depth. However, the game's engaging combat mechanics, diverse character lineup, and stylish sequences ensure that long-time fans of the franchise will still have plenty to enjoy.

***The publisher provided a PS5 code***