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Start with Mortal Kombat 1 (2023). It begins a new timeline created by Fire God Liu Kang, presents a self-contained cinematic story, and is the current mainline entry on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. You do not need to finish earlier games to understand its premise or cast.
If you want the most complete release, look for Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition. Choose Mortal Kombat 11 instead when you use a PlayStation 4, want the preceding modern story arc, or prefer its established one-on-one format and customization package.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
![Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition - PC Steam [Online Game Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/718VdvyvqlL._SL160_.jpg)
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Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition - PC Steam [Online Game Code] | $69.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection - Day 1 Edition - PlayStation 5 | $35.06 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Mortal Kombat 1 Premium Edition - Xbox Series X | $90.80 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Mortal Kombat 1 | $27.41 | Buy on Amazon |
Quick answer: start with Mortal Kombat 1
Mortal Kombat 1 is the best Mortal Kombat game for beginners because it functions as a reset point rather than a continuation that assumes years of series knowledge. Its story takes place in a new era shaped by Fire God Liu Kang. Familiar characters have reimagined relationships, motives, and histories, so a newcomer can meet them through this game instead of learning a long chain of earlier events first.
The game is also the current mainline release. Its target platforms are PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. That makes it the natural starting point for anyone buying a new Mortal Kombat game on current hardware. The main exception is a player whose console is a PlayStation 4; for that reader, Mortal Kombat 11 is the practical choice.
#1 Best Overall
- New to Mortal Kombat 1?
- Get started with the Definitive Edition for the most extensive Mortal Kombat 1 Experience!
Warner Bros. Games describes the first game’s Story mode as a fresh cinematic narrative with new relationships, unexpected twists on classic rivalries, and original backstories for a wide-ranging cast. That description matters for beginners: the story is designed to introduce the new status quo while still delivering the rivalries, fatalities, and dramatic presentation associated with Mortal Kombat.
Why MK1 works as a first game
A genuine timeline reset
Earlier Mortal Kombat games build toward the conclusion that gives Liu Kang the power to create a different reality. Mortal Kombat 1 starts inside that reality. The title can be confusing because it is not the first Mortal Kombat game ever released, but it is the first chapter of Liu Kang’s new era. In practical terms, you can treat it as a new beginning.
You may notice references to older events and recognize returning characters, but those references are context rather than prerequisites. The game explains the new relationships and conflicts through its own cinematic campaign. A first-time player therefore gets the important information in the order the new timeline requires.
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A self-contained cinematic campaign
The Story mode is the strongest reason to recommend MK1 first. It introduces the setting, establishes the altered versions of familiar fighters, and provides a guided route through the cast. You can begin with the story without reading a timeline summary or playing a previous title.
Players who care about narrative continuity can later play Mortal Kombat 11 and its Aftermath expansion to see the preceding modern chapter. That is an optional backward look, not homework required to understand MK1.
Current-generation availability
MK1 is built for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. It is therefore the straightforward recommendation when your system is one of those platforms. The Nintendo Switch version means current hardware is not limited to the two major console families, although the title is still positioned as a current-generation release rather than a PlayStation 4 or Xbox One game.
MK1 or MK11: the differences that affect a beginner
| Question | Mortal Kombat 1 | Mortal Kombat 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Where does it sit in the story? | Begins Fire God Liu Kang’s new timeline. | The preceding modern chapter that leads into MK1. |
| Release timing | 2023. | April 23, 2019, according to PlayStation’s listing. |
| Best story choice | A fresh entry point with reimagined relationships and backstories. | The earlier cinematic arc and its continuation through Aftermath. |
| Combat identity | Adds Kameo Fighters, separate support characters who assist during matches. | Uses an established one-on-one structure with a broad mode and customization package. |
| Platforms relevant to this decision | PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. | PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5; it is the practical option for PlayStation 4 owners. |
| Complete-package option | Definitive Edition bundles the base game and major released additions. | Edition and downloadable-content contents vary, so check the specific listing. |
| Internet requirement | General play can be offline; Invasions and online multiplayer require an internet connection. | Requirements depend on the mode and edition you use; verify the platform listing. |
The table shows why there is no single answer for every player. MK1 wins as the default starting point, but MK11 can be the better purchase when hardware, story order, or combat preference points toward it.
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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.
Choose MK1 when these are your priorities
You have never played Mortal Kombat
Choose MK1 if your question is simply, “What Mortal Kombat game should I start with?” Its campaign supplies the needed context, and its new timeline prevents the usual fear that you have missed too many sequels. You can learn the series’ tone, characters, and finishing moves while following a story written as a new era.
You want the latest mainline game
MK1 is the current mainline entry identified in the available product information. Starting there also means that discussion of the present-day roster, Kameo system, and released expansion content applies directly to the game you own.
You want the broadest included package
Target Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition if you prefer one purchase containing the major released additions. Warner Bros. says this edition includes the base game, the Khaos Reigns story expansion, Kombat Pack, Kombat Pack 2, Animalities, and additional characters and skins. Confirm the exact platform and package description before buying, because store listings can separate standard and complete editions.
Choose MK11 when these are your priorities
You play on PlayStation 4
MK11 is the practical recommendation for a PlayStation 4 owner because MK1 targets PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC instead. MK11 also runs on PlayStation 5, so it remains an option for players who want the previous game’s structure or story even after moving to newer hardware.
You want the previous modern story first
MK11 is the chapter before MK1. Its Aftermath expansion adds story material and playable characters, making it the relevant choice for someone who wants to follow the earlier cinematic arc in order. You can then move to MK1 and see how that arc leads to Liu Kang’s new era.
You prefer a settled one-on-one format
MK11 uses the established one-on-one structure without MK1’s Kameo-Fighter layer. That does not make it automatically easier, but it may feel more familiar if your ideal fighting game has two primary fighters and no separate assist character. MK11 is also known for a broad collection of modes and customization options, which can appeal to players who want a mature package around its core matches.
Understand MK1’s Kameo system before buying
Kameo Fighters are separate support characters selected alongside your main fighter. They assist during matches rather than replacing the character you control. This changes how MK1 is played: you are choosing both a primary combatant and a support option, then learning how their assistance fits into your attacks, defense, and approach to a round.
Rank #3
- 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.
For a newcomer, the system is not a reason to avoid MK1, but it is an important expectation to set. If you want the classic feeling of an uninterrupted duel controlled entirely through one fighter, MK11 may suit you better. If you are willing to learn an additional layer and want the defining mechanic of the current game, MK1 is the stronger starting point.
A sensible first-session plan
- Begin with Story mode. This introduces the new timeline and lets you meet the cast through guided chapters rather than selecting from a large roster without context.
- Use the early matches to identify one primary fighter. Choose the character whose movement and attacks feel comfortable; you do not need to master the whole roster before playing online or exploring other modes.
- Add one Kameo partner at a time. Treat the support character as a second decision to learn after you understand your main fighter’s basic rhythm.
- Try general offline play before online modes. MK1 supports offline general play, so you can learn controls without an internet connection.
- Move to Invasions or online multiplayer when connected. These modes require internet access, unlike the game’s general offline play.
Which edition of MK1 should a beginner buy?
Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition
Definitive Edition is the clearest all-in package. Its stated contents are:
- The Mortal Kombat 1 base game.
- The Khaos Reigns story expansion.
- Kombat Pack.
- Kombat Pack 2.
- Animalities.
- Additional characters and skins.
This is the edition to look for when you want the base campaign and the major released expansions and packs together. It also avoids the uncertainty of buying a standard edition and then trying to determine which individual add-ons are included.
Standard or older listings
A standard MK1 listing can still be suitable if you only want the base game or if its price and availability make it the sensible choice. Read the contents panel carefully: do not assume that every listing includes Khaos Reigns, both Kombat Packs, Animalities, or the additional skins. The name of an edition is less useful than the itemized contents shown for your platform and region.
Buying MK11
MK11 has multiple editions and downloadable-content combinations. Because the exact package is not established by the title alone, verify whether the listing includes Aftermath, the characters you want, and any other advertised additions. This check is especially important if your reason for choosing MK11 is its complete preceding story arc.
Story order: two valid ways to play
Best order for a new player
Play MK1 first. This gives you a clean introduction and avoids delaying the game that is designed as the current starting point. If you later become interested in how the timeline reached this point, go back to MK11 and its Aftermath expansion.
Best order for a continuity-focused player
Play MK11, then Aftermath, then MK1. This follows the previous modern chapter into Liu Kang’s new era. It is a longer route and is most useful if story chronology matters more to you than starting with the newest ruleset.
Rank #4
- Legendary Fighting Returns: Experience the iconic Mortal Kombat franchise reimagined with cutting-edge graphics and brutal combat mechanics that deliver visceral fighting action across multiple game modes
- Diverse Character Roster: Choose from a wide selection of fighters, each featuring unique fighting styles, special moves, and devastating fatalities that showcase their distinct personalities and abilities
- Immersive Story Mode: Dive into an epic narrative campaign that weaves together compelling character arcs and cinematic sequences, revealing the origins and conflicts within the Mortal Kombat universe
- Competitive Multiplayer Action: Test your skills against players worldwide in online matches, ranked tournaments, and casual battles that challenge your mastery of combos, counters, and strategic gameplay
- Enhanced Combat System: Master an evolved fighting engine with refined mechanics including combo breakers, environmental interactions, and special meter management that rewards both newcomers and veteran players
What you do not need to do
You do not need to play every earlier Mortal Kombat title, memorize the complete mythology, or watch a recap before starting MK1. The new timeline is the game’s explanation for presenting familiar characters in changed circumstances.
Platform and connectivity checklist
- PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, or PC: MK1 is the default recommendation.
- PlayStation 4: MK11 is the practical choice.
- Want only offline general play: MK1 can be played without an internet connection for that use.
- Want Invasions or online multiplayer: plan for an internet connection in MK1.
- Comparing editions: read the platform-specific contents instead of relying on a generic edition name.
Platform fit should be decided before story preference. A game that is not available for your console cannot be the right starting point, regardless of its narrative advantages.
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Buying the wrong generation
The most avoidable mistake is purchasing MK1 while owning only a PlayStation 4, or assuming that MK11 is the current mainline release simply because its title is easier to find in older listings. Check the supported platform on the store page before paying.
Assuming MK1 requires previous games
It does not. The new Liu Kang timeline is specifically the reason MK1 works as an entry point. Prior knowledge can add appreciation for reimagined rivalries, but it is not required to follow the campaign.
Expecting MK1 to play exactly like MK11
Kameo Fighters materially change MK1’s combat. If you want the established one-on-one format, choose MK11; if you want the current system, plan to learn the primary fighter and the support fighter as a pair.
Assuming a complete edition includes everything
For MK1, look specifically for Definitive Edition and confirm the listed base game, Khaos Reigns, both Kombat Packs, Animalities, characters, and skins. For MK11, inspect the individual contents because the edition name alone does not establish the same package.
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| Your situation | Start with | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| First Mortal Kombat game on current hardware | MK1 | New timeline, self-contained Story mode, and current mainline status. |
| First Mortal Kombat game and you want all major released content | MK1: Definitive Edition | Includes the base game, Khaos Reigns, both Kombat Packs, Animalities, characters, and skins. |
| You own only PlayStation 4 | MK11 | It is the practical choice for that hardware. |
| You want to experience the prior cinematic arc | MK11, then MK1 | MK11 is the preceding modern chapter and leads into MK1. |
| You dislike assist-character systems | MK11 | Its established one-on-one structure avoids MK1’s Kameo layer. |
| You want the latest combat identity | MK1 | Kameo Fighters define its match structure. |
Final verdict
Mortal Kombat 1 is the best Mortal Kombat game to start with for most readers. Its Fire God Liu Kang timeline resets the story, its cinematic campaign is designed to introduce the new era, and it is available on current PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC platforms. Buy Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition when you want the base game and major released additions in one package.
Choose Mortal Kombat 11 when PlayStation 4 compatibility, the preceding story arc, or a more established one-on-one system matters more than starting with the newest chapter.
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