MK1 reveals two new members of its iconic roster in its official release trailer: Shang Tsung and Reiko. Read on to learn more about their new looks, iconic moves, and fatalities.
MK1 to Include Two Fan Favorites to the Roster
The Sorcerer of Souls Returns
Shang Tsung is a staple to the MK series, appearing in almost every major game release since his debut in the original Mortal Kombat. That’s why fans were thrilled to see him during MK1’s announcement trailer, though his appearances were few and far between the other trailers posted in the following months. However, he made a grand entrance in the official launch trailer as the clear antagonist in the game’s story mode.
Shang Tsung’s shapeshifting is one of the game’s iconic abilities, so it makes sense that he enters the new timeline sporting new threads. Still reminiscent of his movie depiction by the actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Shang Tsung’s new look boasts fiery claw gauntlets, layered robes, and metal shoulder pauldrons.
Outworld’s Greatest General Makes a Daring Comeback
Reiko, the mighty general of Outworld’s armies, finally makes a comeback to the Mortal Kombat roster after years of cameos and background appearances. With his last playable appearance being in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon all the way back in 2006, fans of the series have been hungry for his return for well over a decade.
Still rocking his iconic eye markings and plated shoulder guards, Reiko does not disappoint the nostalgia that MK1 seems to be keen on tapping into. And, much to the delight of fans, his moveset and personality are more or less the same as before, just with a new coat of paint and some RTX filters to boot.
Shang Tsung and Reiko Gameplay
Shang Tsung’s Moveset and Fatality Revealed
The trailer shows Shang Tsung in his historic role as a zoner. He keeps his foes at bay with fireballs and other ranged projectiles while mixing things up using his copy ability. His entire kit won’t be confirmed until the full release, but his moves in the trailer paint a clear picture of his play style.
No MK1 trailer is complete without a fatality to close things out and Shang Tsung got the honors for the game’s launch. He empties a concoction into his opponent’s open wound in this one, letting it grow into a snake that finishes off his hapless foe.
Reiko’s Moveset and Fatal Blow Revealed
Reiko has been historically known to be a weapon wielder and a power striker, knocking his opponent down and about in the arena with hard hitting combos. This still seems to be the case in MK1, with Reiko showcasing a powerful ground pound and body slam after a slow knock up combo.
His Fatal Blow showcases his slow but powerful nature better, as well as his new short spear. Brutal, deliberate, and exactly what one would expect from Reiko.
Shang Tsung as a Pre-Order Bonus
Pre-orders are live for MK1 and Shang Tsung serves as a reward for those that choose to pre-order the game. At the time of writing, there has been no confirmation if players will be able to unlock Shang Tsung through other means post-launch, so pre-order while you can.
