With each new detail revealed, Mortal Kombat 1 is shaping up to be a truly remarkable addition to the long-standing fighting game series. Fresh from unveiling the first gameplay footage, the game’s developers have now shared some intriguing news regarding the game’s cast.
Ed Boon, one of the primary creators of this celebrated series, recently announced that the role of Johnny Cage would be played by none other than action movie superstar Jean Claude Van Damme, famed for his roles in films like Bloodsport and Kickboxer.
With Van Damme having recently celebrated his 62nd birthday, fans can likely expect a slightly more mature portrayal of Johnny Cage.
Immersive Story Mode and Engaging Character Roster
NetherRealm’s legendary story mode makes a return in Mortal Kombat 1, boasting a captivating cinematic narrative that presents unique twists on familiar rivalries. The game’s story is brought to life through a diverse cast of iconic warriors, including Liu Kang, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Raiden, Kung Lao, Kitana, Mileena, Shang Tsung, and of course, Johnny Cage.
The game also introduces an innovative feature known as the Kameo Warriors. These cooperative characters enhance the player’s abilities during battles, adding another layer of depth and strategy to the game.
A Fresh Take on a Beloved Franchise
“Mortal Kombat 1 aims to reinvent the universe of this legendary franchise, which has captivated gamers for over three decades,” says David Haddad, director of Warner Bros. games. “Our skilled team at NetherRealm Studios continually finds new ways to propel the series forward, expanding its global audience. We’re confident that Mortal Kombat 1 will draw in both new players and longtime fans alike.”
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Ed Boon, NetherRealm Studios’ creative director and co-creator of Mortal Kombat, shares this sentiment, describing Mortal Kombat 1 as a new beginning for the franchise. “We’re thrilled to present an original story and a fresh take on classic characters to our fans,” Boon says.
Pre-Order Bonuses and Special Editions
The Standard, Premium, and Kollektor Editions of Mortal Kombat 1 are now available for pre-order across various platforms, each offering its unique perks. The Premium Edition, for instance, includes a Jean-Claude Van Damme-inspired Johnny Cage skin, early access to six new playable characters, and five additional Kameo Warriors. The Kollektor Edition even features a 16.5-inch Liu Kang sculpture and bonus Dragon Crystals.
Customers who pre-order Mortal Kombat 1 will also gain early access to Shang Tsung as a playable character, and those who place orders for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S will have exclusive access to the beta version of the game, set to launch in August 2023.
Mortal Kombat 1 is scheduled for release on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC on September 19, 2023.
