Mortal Kombat 1 was released on PC and consoles on September 19, 2023. The game features both new and classic characters familiar to users from previous installments of the series.

At the time of the official release, 24 characters have been confirmed by the developers. Several more are available through exclusive pre-orders and the Kombat Pack.

Full List of Mortal Kombat 1 Characters

Full list of characters known at this moment:

• Sub-Zero
• Kitana
• Tanya
• Scorpion
• Reptile
• Baraka
• Raiden
• Mileena
• Nitara
• Johnny Cage
• Kenshi
• Ashrah
• Ermac
• Takeda
• Smoke
• Rain
• Omni-Man
• Li Mei
• Kung Lao
• Sindel
• Shang Tsung
• Reiko
• Quan Chi
• Peacemaker
• Liu Kang
• General Shao
• Geras
• Havik
• Homelander

Top Characters in Mortal Kombat 1

This selection considers various characters with more or less complex mechanics. Some are better suited for beginners, while others are for experienced players who understand the combat system and character nuances. Most of these heroes are classics in Mortal Kombat, standing the test of time.

Sub-Zero

Sub-Zero's main advantage is the ability to freeze the opponent at any distance and spam attacks while the opponent is immobilized. He's easy to learn for newcomers, deals powerful blows, and is a straightforward and strong character. He possesses the fastest dash in the game.

Scorpion

Scorpion, the sworn enemy of Sub-Zero, possesses the opposing power of Inferno. Like Sub-Zero, he has appeared in almost all parts of the game and is one of the most recognizable characters. However, in Mortal Kombat 1, developers decided to change the canonical relationship between these enemies, and now Scorpion and Sub-Zero are brothers.

His advantage is chain attacks that allow him to pull and push the enemy at any distance. Previously, this ability could easily be "spammed" against the opponent without applying any special tactics.

Kitana

Kitana is the most recognizable and the first female character in the Mortal Kombat series. Her eternal rival is Mileena, an evil clone.

With her special fans, she can lift opponents into the air and counter their attacks.

Johnny Cage

Johnny Cage is a Hollywood actor and a very useful character with fast and strong attacks. In the new series, he has been significantly enhanced with new abilities. With one of his moves, you can cancel enemy special attacks.

One of his advantages is the potential for dealing damage. Additionally, the character is quite humorous, constantly asking questions about the game and commenting on everything that happens.

Reptile

Reptile is a versatile hero capable of launching attacks with slime at any distance. He easily interrupts opponents' moves and knocks them off their feet.

According to comments, Reptile in Mortal Kombat 1 has been very well received by players, with many considering him the best version of the character throughout the series. He easily performs combos and keeps enemies at bay with his signature "slime ball."

Raiden

Raiden is a more complex but still very strong character. He is not suitable for beginners. To perform combos with him, you need to press many buttons and never make mistakes. He attacks with lightning and has an advantage with a special move that allows teleportation.

Kenshi

Kenshi is a blind swordsman who uses telekinetic abilities in combat. Telekinetic abilities in Mortal Kombat 1 have been significantly improved.

One of his special moves involves summoning a ghost that deals powerful attacks. While this is happening, Kenshi blocks all damage from the opponent. If you find yourself caught between the ghost and Kenshi, consider that round lost.

Baraka

Baraka is a ruthless and vicious killer, one of the most brutal characters in the game and a representative of the Tarkatan race. He was born for battles, which is why he's made to be such a powerful and dangerous enemy. He attacks with blades that grow directly from his hands.

Liu Kang

Liu Kang is one of the best characters to start with in the game. His advantages include massive damage, easy-to-learn combos, and a powerful flying kick. Flying kicks are the foundation of Liu Kang's combat style. He's a versatile hero you can pick against any opponent, and he'll win.

Kung Lao

Kung Lao is a Shaolin monk and the closest friend of Liu Kang. His speedy attacks are not the most powerful in the game, making Kung Lao optimal as a support character. His aerial attacks are some of the most powerful in terms of damage.

You can use this list as a reference when choosing a character, but keep in mind that you should choose a character based on your own preferences, comfort, and playstyle. If you didn't find the name of your favorite character, it doesn't mean they are weak or unplayable.