# Mortal Kombat
*Mortal Kombat*, released in October 1992 by Midway Games for arcades, is the first entry in the iconic fighting game series, created by Ed Boon and John Tobias. Set on Shang Tsung’s island, seven fighters—Liu Kang, Johnny Cage, Sonya Blade, Raiden, Sub-Zero, Scorpion, and Kano—compete in a tournament to determine Earthrealm’s fate against Outworld. Featuring digitized sprites of real actors, a five-button control scheme (high/low punch, high/low kick, block), and gruesome Fatalities, it introduced characters with unique special moves (e.g., Sub-Zero’s ice blast, Scorpion’s spear). With a gritty soundtrack by Dan Forden and seven stages, it sold millions and sparked controversy, contributing to the ESRB’s creation. Re-released on SNES, Genesis, Game Boy, and as part of *Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection* (2011) and *Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection* (2025).
## Why Play Mortal Kombat?
*Mortal Kombat* delivers fast-paced 2D fighting with a roster of seven playable characters, each with distinct moves and a unique Fatality (e.g., Liu Kang’s cartwheel kick, Kano’s heart rip). The game’s “Test Your Might” minigame challenges players to break materials (wood to diamond) for points. Its simple controls, juggling mechanics, and gory finishers set it apart from *Street Fighter II*, though it requires precise inputs. Gameplay lasts 1-2 hours per arcade run, with competitive multiplayer extending replayability. Its digitized sprites and intense atmosphere make it a must-play for retro fighting fans, though its high difficulty and limited roster may feel basic today. The *Legacy Kollection* (2025) adds online multiplayer with rollback netcode.
## Game Features
- Play as 7 characters (Liu Kang, Sub-Zero, Scorpion, Sonya Blade, Johnny Cage, Kano, Raiden)
- Fight across 7 stages (e.g., The Pit, Goro’s Lair); perform unique Fatalities
- Use 5-button controls: high/low punch, high/low kick, block; joystick for movement
- Engage in “Test Your Might” minigame to break materials for points
- Battle bosses Goro and Shang Tsung; unlock secret fighter Reptile
- Experience authentic arcade gameplay on our retro ROM platform or *Legacy Kollection* (2025)
## Play Mortal Kombat Online
Fight today! Our website, Classic Joy Games, lets you play *Mortal Kombat* instantly with no downloads, optimized for modern browsers using arcade emulators. Alternatively, enjoy it on SNES, Genesis, *Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection* (PS3, Xbox 360, PC), or *Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection* (2025 on PC, Switch, PS4/5, Xbox). Physical copies are available on eBay/Amazon ($20-$70). For Genesis, use the “A-B-A-C-A-B-B” code for full gore. Ideal for fans of retro ROMs and fighting classics! Note: Use MAME or RetroArch for emulation; Genesis/SNES ports vary slightly in graphics and sound.
Join players worldwide and enjoy *Mortal Kombat* on Classic Joy Games. Start your fight now and deliver Fatalities to forge your tournament legacy!