Mortal Kombat 1 Co-creator Ed Boon provides a brief video preview of the Van Damme Johnny Cage skin. Learn more about its origins, the difficulties in using narrative in combat, and more.
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Mortal Kombat 1 Co-Creator Ed Boon Teases Van Damme Johnny Cage Skin
Available in Premium Edition
Mortal Kombat co-creator Ed Boon recently unveiled the Jean-Claude Van Damme Johnny Cage skin in an interview on the Youtube series Hot Ones. This nostalgic skin transports gamers to the early 1990s, when the first Mortal Kombat game was published. Boon provided fascinating details about the game's origins and the path to finally being able to include Van Damme in the Mortal Kombat universe.
The Van Damme Vision
Boon revealed an intriguing fact about Mortal Kombat's origins, admitting that their initial goal was to create Van Damme: The Arcade Game.
Inspired by the action star's popularity during the era of films like Bloodsport and Universal Soldier, the development team contacted Van Damme's representatives. Unfortunately, their initial efforts were met with silence, making them think that the famous actor might not favor the plan.
But persistence paid off, as after numerous failed tries, they managed to get Van Damme on board. Boon stated his delight in using Van Damme's voice and likeness for the Johnny Cage persona. The team's original idea came true with this accomplishment.
The Challenge of Narrative in a Fighting Game
One of the biggest obstacles in making a fighting game like Mortal Kombat is creating an engaging story that supports the characters' ongoing conflicts. Boon acknowledged this challenge and stated that the group had to develop 30 unique explanations for these conflicts. Some early attempts, such as Johnny Cage's humorous advances being met with Jax's intervention, were admittedly amusing.
Ultimately, the narrative's primary goal is to spark conflict and motivate players to engage in brutal fighting. It's a vital component of the game that guarantees that each battle has a purpose for the gamer and will leave them satisfied.
Release Details and Exclusive Content
Mortal Kombat 1, produced by Warner Bros. Games and created by NetherRealm Studios, is scheduled for release on September 19, 2023, for a variety of platforms, including PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. Shang Tsung, a playable character, will be given to those who pre-order the game.
Fans who want to dig even deeper into the Mortal Kombat experience can purchase the Premium Edition for $109.99, which includes a slew of special bonuses. This version gives players five days of early access, the highly sought-after Van Damme DLC, early access to several other DLC characters, and 1250 Dragon Krystals, boosting the gameplay experience for die-hard fans.
Exciting DLC Characters on the Horizon
Players of Mortal Kombat 1 will soon be able to choose from an intriguing roster of DLC characters. Fans wishing to fully immerse themselves in the Mortal Kombat universe can expect an expanded and dynamic gaming experience thanks to the addition of Quan Chi, Omni Man, Ermac, Takeda, Peacemaker, and Homelander to the roster.
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First We Feast's Hot Ones Interview With Mortal Kombat 1 Co-Creator Ed Boon
