Start with Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) unless you specifically need a PS4 version, want the preceding modern storyline, or prefer its established one-on-one format. MK1 begins a new timeline created by Fire God Liu Kang, so it gives first-time players a self-contained cinematic story and the current mainline combat system without requiring knowledge of earlier games.
For the most complete purchase, look for Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition. Warner Bros. Games lists the package as including the base game, the Khaos Reigns story expansion, Kombat Pack, Kombat Pack 2, Animalities, and additional characters and skins.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Mortal Kombat 1 - PlayStation5 | $22.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection - Day 1 Edition - PlayStation 5 | $35.06 | Buy on Amazon |
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The short answer: choose Mortal Kombat 1
Mortal Kombat 1 is the best default starting point for a new player. Its story opens in a newly created era, the game is designed for current platforms, and its campaign introduces the setting and characters without assuming that you have played the previous entries. The reset is part of the premise: Fire God Liu Kang has shaped a different timeline, creating new relationships, revised rivalries, and altered versions of familiar characters.
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That makes MK1 a better first purchase than beginning with an older chapter simply because it carries the newest mainline systems. It is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. If your hardware supports it and you want the modern game, start here.
#1 Best Overall
- A New Universe - Discover a new beginning, as crafted by the Keeper of Time and protector of Earthrealm, Fire God Liu Kang.
- Origins Reimagined - Familiar characters return with all new intertwined histories, interacting in brand new ways.
- New Kameo Fighters - Choose from a unique roster of Kameo fighting partners to assist you in battle.
- Immersive Story Campaign - Fight through a brand new story featuring your favorite Mortal Kombat characters like you’ve never seen them before.
- The Ultimate Fighting Franchise Returns - The Fight for Earthrealm is upon us. This is Mortal Kombat.
There are two important exceptions. Choose Mortal Kombat 11 if you play on PlayStation 4, want to follow the previous modern story before MK1, or prefer a more established one-on-one structure and customization package. MK11 remains playable on PlayStation 5 as well as PS4.
Why MK1 works for beginners
A genuine story reset
MK1 does not merely continue the previous timeline with a new number. It starts in Liu Kang’s new era, giving newcomers a clear narrative entry point. You do not need to complete earlier Mortal Kombat campaigns to understand the central conflict, the world the characters inhabit, or why familiar fighters may have different histories.
The campaign is presented as a cinematic story rather than a disconnected set of arcade matches. Warner Bros. Games describes it as a narrative with “new relationships, unexpected twists on classic rivalries, and original backstories for a wide-ranging cast of characters.” That design is useful for beginners because the campaign introduces the cast while giving you a structured way to learn the basic rhythm of matches.
The current mainline combat system
MK1 adds Kameo Fighters. These are separate support characters that you select alongside your main fighter and call during a match. They are not simply alternate costumes or a second character that you control continuously; they assist at chosen moments, adding another layer to attacks, defense, and combo planning.
Kameos materially change how MK1 feels compared with a traditional uninterrupted one-on-one fighter. A new player should expect to learn both a primary character and the timing of a support character. That extra decision can make the game more flexible, but it also means MK1 is not the ideal choice for someone who specifically wants a classic one-fighter-versus-one-fighter format with no assist system.
A current platform target
MK1 is built for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. It is not the practical choice for someone whose only console is a PlayStation 4. Platform availability is therefore part of the recommendation, not a minor technical detail: buying the newest game does not help if you cannot play it on your system.
When Mortal Kombat 11 is the better starting point
You own a PlayStation 4
Mortal Kombat 11 is the sensible starting point for PS4 owners because it supports that console generation. PlayStation lists its release date as April 23, 2019, and the game also runs on PS5. If upgrading hardware is not part of your plan, MK11 gives you a full modern Mortal Kombat experience without requiring a current-generation console.
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MK11 is the preceding modern chapter and leads into MK1. Starting there lets you experience the story arc in its original order before reaching the timeline created by Liu Kang. This is a different goal from simply finding the easiest first game: it prioritizes continuity across the two modern entries.
MK11’s Aftermath expansion adds more story and playable characters. If you want to follow the complete pre-MK1 narrative, check that the edition you buy includes Aftermath or that the expansion is available separately for your platform.
You prefer an established one-on-one structure
MK11 uses the familiar one-on-one structure rather than MK1’s Kameo Fighter system. It is also known for a broad selection of modes and a substantial customization package. That makes it a strong fit for players who want to spend time with a settled ruleset, experiment with customization, and play outside the main campaign.
MK1 or MK11: the differences that decide the purchase
| Question | Mortal Kombat 1 | Mortal Kombat 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Where does the story begin? | A new timeline created by Fire God Liu Kang; designed as a fresh entry point. | The previous modern chapter, leading into MK1. |
| Combat identity | Adds Kameo Fighters, separate support characters who assist during matches. | Established one-on-one structure without MK1’s Kameo system. |
| Platforms listed in the supplied product information | PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. | PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. |
| Story expansions | Khaos Reigns is included in Definitive Edition. | Aftermath adds story content and playable characters; confirm whether your edition includes it. |
| Best fit | New players, current-generation owners, and anyone wanting the newest mainline starting point. | PS4 owners, players following the prior story arc, and players who prefer the established format. |
| Complete-package option | Definitive Edition includes the base game, Khaos Reigns, Kombat Pack, Kombat Pack 2, Animalities, and additional characters and skins. | Edition contents vary; verify the exact game and DLC bundle before buying. |
The table is not a verdict that one game is universally superior. It separates the decision into story order, hardware, combat design, and bundle contents. Those factors point to MK1 for most new players, but any one of them can make MK11 the more appropriate choice.
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Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition
Definitive Edition is the clearest all-in package for a buyer who wants the major released content in one purchase. Warner Bros. Games says it includes:
- The base game.
- The Khaos Reigns story expansion.
- Kombat Pack.
- Kombat Pack 2.
- Animalities.
- Additional characters and skins.
Because product contents and availability can differ by platform and storefront, read the listing for your specific console or PC version before checkout. The important distinction is that Definitive Edition is the package to look for when you do not want to assemble the base game and major add-ons separately.
Other MK1 listings
If Definitive Edition is unavailable, compare the listing’s included content rather than relying on the edition name alone. A base-game listing may provide the complete core campaign and standard modes but omit one or both Kombat Packs or Khaos Reigns. A package that sounds deluxe is only a good value if its itemized contents match what you want.
No specific price or recurring discount should be assumed. Prices and availability change by region, platform, and promotion, so use the current listing for your system as the authority.
How to start playing MK1 without getting overwhelmed
1. Confirm the platform and edition
- Check that you are buying the version for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, or PC.
- Decide whether you want the base game or Definitive Edition’s listed expansions and packs.
- Before downloading, confirm the store description identifies the content you expect. Do not assume that a similarly named bundle contains every expansion.
2. Begin with Story mode
Use Story mode as your first structured introduction. It presents the new era, explains the revised relationships, and lets you try multiple fighters instead of forcing you to select a permanent main immediately. Pay attention to how each chapter changes the character you control; that variety is useful for identifying which movement and attack styles feel natural.
3. Learn one main fighter and one Kameo
After the opening chapters, choose one primary fighter whose basic attacks and movement you understand. Pair that fighter with one Kameo and practice calling the support character at deliberate moments rather than pressing every assist option at once. Your first goal is not an advanced combo. It is recognizing when the Kameo creates space, extends pressure, or helps you escape a difficult situation.
Rank #2
- Multiple Iconic Editions: Experience the legendary origins of Mortal Kombat with the iconic arcade classics along with well loved home versions for Super NES and Sega Genesis. Dive deeper with rare and fan-favorite releases across Game Boy, Game Gear, Sega 32X, Game Boy Advance and more.
- Interactive Documentary: Deep behind-the-scenes content chronicles the history of the franchise, featuring exclusive new interviews with original MK developers Ed Boon, John Tobias, Dan Forden, John Vogel, and dozens more.
- Online Play: Engage in online battles enhanced by rollback netcode— engineered to preserve the precision of every attack, even with players across vast distances.
- The Full Story: Detailed character histories and timelines trace the epic narrative of Earthrealm, Outworld, and Edenia through the arcade era.
- No More Secrets: At the touch of a button, unlock all secret characters, change game settings, and access the buried developer menus to play the games your way.
4. Move to practice before online matches
Use the practice tools to repeat a small set of actions: standing attacks, a low or overhead option, blocking, throwing, and one reliable combo. Then add your Kameo call to that routine. This creates a manageable learning loop: understand the main fighter, understand the support timing, and only then combine them under pressure.
5. Treat optional modes as skill practice
Do not interpret a loss in an online match as proof that you chose the wrong game. Fighting games require repeated adjustment. Try a short offline session after each difficult match and isolate one problem, such as failing to block a particular attack or spending the Kameo at the wrong time. Improvement is easier when you change one habit at a time.
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Internet and offline requirements
MK1 can be played without an internet connection for general play. Internet access is required for Invasions and online multiplayer. That distinction matters if you are buying the game for travel, a limited connection, or a household where online play is restricted.
- Offline-friendly use: general play that does not depend on online services.
- Internet required: Invasions and online multiplayer.
- Before purchase: check the platform’s current requirements and account rules, especially for a physical copy that still needs downloads or updates.
Offline access does not mean every feature is available without a connection. Plan around the specific modes you intend to use rather than assuming that the entire game behaves identically online and offline.
Choosing based on the kind of beginner you are
“I have never played Mortal Kombat.”
Choose MK1. Its new timeline removes the need to know the previous continuity, and Story mode gives you the clearest guided introduction. Start with the base game if you are unsure whether you will want the expansions; choose Definitive Edition if you already want the complete listed package.
“I want to play the stories in order.”
Start with MK11, then move to MK1. MK11 is the preceding modern chapter, while MK1 follows with Liu Kang’s new era. This route prioritizes narrative progression over starting with the newest ruleset.
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Choose MK11. MK1’s listed platforms begin with PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC, whereas MK11 supports PS4 and PS5.
“I dislike assist characters.”
Choose MK11. MK1’s Kameo Fighters are a central combat feature, not an optional menu setting that can be ignored without changing how matches play. MK11’s established one-on-one structure is closer to a traditional uninterrupted fighter-versus-fighter experience.
“I want the most content in one purchase.”
Look first for MK1 Definitive Edition and verify the itemized contents on your platform’s listing. It is the package explicitly described as including the base game, Khaos Reigns, both Kombat Packs, Animalities, and additional characters and skins.
“I mainly want local or offline play.”
MK1 remains viable because general play does not require an internet connection. Avoid assuming that Invasions or online multiplayer will work offline; those modes require internet access.
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Mistake: treating MK1 as a direct remake
MK1 is a new-era entry, not simply the first game with an old roster. Expect changed relationships, revised backstories, and a combat system built around Kameos. If you want the previous continuity, MK11 is the correct place to begin.
Mistake: buying for the wrong console generation
Check the platform line before paying. MK1 targets PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC; MK11 is the practical PS4 option. A current-generation recommendation cannot solve a hardware mismatch.
Mistake: assuming every MK11 edition includes Aftermath
Aftermath adds story and playable characters, but the exact contents depend on the edition. Read the product description and confirm whether Aftermath is included or sold separately.
Mistake: assuming a bundle’s marketing name tells you everything
Use the itemized contents, especially when comparing standard, premium, or complete listings. For MK1, Definitive Edition has a clearly stated set of inclusions; for any other listing, verify each expansion and pack individually.
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Mistake: expecting every mode to work offline
General MK1 play can be offline, but Invasions and online multiplayer require an internet connection. Decide which modes matter to you before choosing the game for a connection-limited setup.
Final decision
For most newcomers, buy Mortal Kombat 1. It is the current mainline game, starts a new Liu Kang-led timeline, and provides the clearest self-contained story entry point. If you want the broadest released package, choose Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition after checking the listing for your platform.
Buy Mortal Kombat 11 instead when PS4 support, the previous modern story, or a traditional one-on-one format matters more than having the newest system. Neither choice requires you to have mastered earlier Mortal Kombat games; the right starting point depends on whether your priority is a fresh timeline and current hardware or the established chapter that comes before it.
Quick Recap
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