The Mortal Kombat franchise has a rich and intricate timeline that spans across 13 games. It’s a story that resets itself twice, beginning with the origins of the Elder Gods and the Mortal Kombat tournament. The franchise takes us through various realms, introduces key players like Raiden, Shinnok, Shao Khan, and Quan Chi, and features iconic games such as Mortal Kombat 2 and Mortal Kombat 11. With its complex narrative and multiple timelines, understanding the Mortal Kombat timeline can be quite a challenge. However, a video by GameSpot fully explains the entire timeline, from its origins to the aftermath of Mortal Kombat 11, giving fans a comprehensive understanding of this beloved fighting game series.
With its dense and elaborate storyline, the Mortal Kombat timeline is a rollercoaster of epic proportions. From the battles between Earthrealm and Outworld to the resurrection of Shinnok and the rise of new rulers, the timeline is full of twists and turns. We witness the emergence of new fighters like Cassie Cage and Jackie, and the clash between Raiden and the corrupted dark Raiden. The climax of Mortal Kombat 11 brings about multiple possible outcomes, including a new timeline if Kronica wins or a victory for Liu Kang alongside Kitana. And in the upcoming Mortal Kombat game, Liu Kang seeks to establish a more peaceful timeline, but faces challenges from new enemies and the reappearance of Shang Tsung. With so much action and lore, the Mortal Kombat timeline is truly a captivating saga.
The Origins of the Mortal Kombat Timeline
The Elder Gods and the Mortal Kombat Tournament
The Mortal Kombat franchise has a rich and intricate timeline that spans across multiple games and introduces a multitude of characters and realms. It all begins with the origins of the Elder Gods and the establishment of the Mortal Kombat tournament. The Elder Gods are a group of celestial beings who oversee and control various realms, including Earthrealm, Outworld, Netherrealm, Chaosrealm, and Edenia.
To prevent constant war and invasion between these realms, the Elder Gods devised a system known as Mortal Kombat. According to this system, if one realm wishes to conquer another, they must win ten consecutive tournaments held every generation. The chosen warriors from each realm battle against each other, and the outcome decides the fate of their realms.
However, the Elder Gods are not invulnerable to corruption and power-hungry individuals. Shinnok, a former Elder God, seeks to conquer Earthrealm and enlists the help of Quan Chi, a formidable sorcerer. Raiden, the God of Thunder and Earthrealm’s protector, foils their plans and exiles Shinnok to the Netherrealm.
Shao Khan, a ruthless emperor, continues Shinnok’s mission to conquer Earthrealm by winning nine out of ten tournaments. Raiden assembles a team of warriors to defend Earthrealm in the upcoming tournament, setting the stage for the events of the first game in the franchise.
The Franchise and its Games
Introduction to the Mortal Kombat franchise
The Mortal Kombat franchise is one of the most iconic fighting game series in the history of video games. Developed by NetherRealm Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, the franchise has gained a massive following and has become synonymous with intense fighting gameplay and brutal fatalities.
Key games in the franchise
The franchise consists of thirteen mainline games, each expanding the intricate storyline and introducing new characters and realms. Some of the key games in the franchise include Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat II, Mortal Kombat 3, Mortal Kombat 4, and the latest installment, Mortal Kombat 11.
The inclusion of Mortal Kombat: Special Forces
Mortal Kombat: Special Forces, although widely regarded as one of the weaker games in the franchise, holds a significant place in the timeline. It serves as a prequel to the events of the first game and introduces the character Jax Briggs, a major player in the series.
Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero backstory
Another spin-off in the franchise, Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero, explores the backstory of the iconic character Sub-Zero and his rivalry with Scorpion. The game deviates from the traditional fighting gameplay and delves into action-adventure elements.
The Involvement of Realms
Introduction to various realms
The Mortal Kombat universe is composed of several realms, each with its unique characteristics and inhabitants. The main realms include Earthrealm, Outworld, Netherrealm, Chaosrealm, and Edenia. These realms serve as the battlegrounds for Mortal Kombat tournaments, where the fate of their existence is decided.
Earthrealm, Outworld, Netherrealm, Chaosrealm, Edenia
Earthrealm is the home of humanity and is the primary focus of the series. Outworld is a brutal and savage realm ruled by the tyrannical Shao Khan. Netherrealm is a fiery and nightmarish dimension, equivalent to hell in the Mortal Kombat universe. Chaosrealm is a realm where disorder and unpredictability reign. Edenia is a realm of beauty and tranquility but has also seen its fair share of conflict.
Key Players in the Franchise
Introducing Raiden, Shinnok, Shao Khan, and Quan Chi
Raiden, the God of Thunder, is Earthrealm’s protector and one of the key players in the Mortal Kombat universe. Shinnok and Shao Khan are major antagonists who seek to conquer Earthrealm. Quan Chi, a formidable sorcerer, aids both Shinnok and Shao Khan in their quests for power.
The transformation of Sub-Zero and Noob Saibot
Sub-Zero, one of the most popular characters in the franchise, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the timeline. Younger brother Qui Liang assumes the identity of Sub-Zero’s alter ego, while the original Sub-Zero descends into the Netherrealm and becomes the shadow wraith Noob Saibot.
Introduction of Kung Lao as Liu Kang’s best friend
Kung Lao plays a crucial role in the Mortal Kombat timeline as Liu Kang’s best friend and ally. Together, they stand against the forces of evil and fight to protect Earthrealm.
Events in the Mortal Kombat Timeline
Overview of Mortal Kombat Shaolin Monks
Mortal Kombat Shaolin Monks is a spin-off game that follows the events of Mortal Kombat II from the perspective of the Shaolin Monks, Liu Kang and Kung Lao. The game explores their journey and fights against various enemies, providing additional background to their characters.
Shao Khan’s invasion plans
Shao Khan, the ruthless emperor of Outworld, seeks to invade Earthrealm through different means, including resurrecting his former love, Queen Sindel. His invasion plans serve as a recurring theme throughout the timeline.
Raiden’s protection of Earthrealm warriors
Raiden, as Earthrealm’s protector, takes it upon himself to defend a select group of Earthrealm warriors from losing their souls in combat. He becomes a pivotal figure in the battles against the invading forces.
Rebellion against invading forces
Liu Kang teams up with Kung Lao and other warriors to rebel against the invading forces, fighting for the freedom of Earthrealm. This rebellion leads to significant confrontations and losses, shaping the events of the timeline.
Liu Kang’s defeat of Shao Khan
Liu Kang rises to prominence as one of Earthrealm’s greatest warriors and ultimately defeats Shao Khan in Mortal Kombat, saving Earthrealm from his tyranny. This victory solidifies Liu Kang’s place as one of the key players in the Mortal Kombat universe.
Liu Kang’s involvement with Princess Kitana
In his journey, Liu Kang becomes romantically involved with Princess Kitana, who is revealed to be the daughter of Sindel, thus cementing their connection to the ongoing conflict between Earthrealm and Outworld.
The role of the Lin Kuei assassins
The Lin Kuei assassins play a prominent role in the timeline, particularly in Mortal Kombat 3. Seeking to eliminate Earthrealm’s warriors, they turn four assassins into soulless robots, known as cyborgs.
Formation of the Outer World Investigation Agency
Amidst the constant threat of invasions, Jax and Sonya Blade form the Outer World Investigation Agency (OIA) to counter potential threats from other realms and protect Earthrealm’s interests.
Shinnok’s rise as the primary antagonist
Shinnok, in alliance with Quan Chi, rises as the primary antagonist in Mortal Kombat 4. His aim is to overthrow the Elder Gods and dominate all realms, plunging the Mortal Kombat universe into chaos.
Continuation of the Timeline
Introduction of Mortal Kombat 11
Mortal Kombat 11 continues the storyline from its predecessors and takes place after the events of Mortal Kombat X. The game introduces a new generation of fighters, including Cassie Cage, Jackie, and Kung Jin, who find themselves caught up in a civil war in Outworld.
New generation of fighters
The new generation of fighters faces personal challenges and must confront treachery within Outworld’s ranks, led by its new ruler, Kotal Khan, and his second in command, Devorah.
Civil war in Outworld
Amidst the civil war, Quan Chi and Devorah attempt to resurrect Shinnok, but their plans are ultimately foiled by Earthrealm’s warriors.
Shinnok’s invasion and defeat
Shinnok, undeterred, launches another invasion of Earthrealm, but is ultimately defeated by Cassie Cage, one of the new generation fighters.
Raiden’s corrupt transformation
Raiden, in possession of Shinnok’s amulet, is corrupted by its power and becomes hell-bent on protecting Earthrealm, regardless of the consequences.
Raiden’s revenge and Cronica’s vow
Raiden enacts a plan to destroy his rivals, starting by decapitating Shinnok. This act prompts vengeance from Shinnok’s mother, Cronica, who vows to raise Raiden from all the timelines.
Revelation of multiple timelines
The Mortal Kombat timeline expands further, revealing the existence of multiple timelines within the Mortal Kombat universe. Cronica plans to merge and reshape these timelines to her whim.
Alliance with undead revenants
Cronica forms an unlikely alliance with undead revenants, including past versions of key players, to aid her in reshaping the timelines and acquiring ultimate power.
Cronica’s opening of a Timestorm
With her newfound power, Cronica opens a Timestorm, allowing younger versions of key characters to coexist with their present-day counterparts, leading to unexpected confrontations and alliances.
Raiden’s search for Elder Gods
Raiden, seeking assistance, embarks on a quest to find the Elder Gods but discovers that they are unable or unwilling to intervene in his battle against Cronica.
Betrayal and slaughter by Cetrion
Cetrion, an Elder God and daughter of Cronica, offers Raiden a potential solution to defeat her mother, but ultimately betrays him and slaughters the other Elder Gods.
Fight for the Crown of Souls
Raiden gathers a squad of fighters to retrieve the Crown of Souls, a powerful artifact that holds the key to defeating Cronica.
Liu Kang’s transformation into the fire god
In a climactic battle, Liu Kang merges with Raiden to become the all-powerful fire god, harnessing the flames of his victory and determination.
Cronica’s rewinding of time
However, Cronica absorbs her daughter’s power and rewinds time to the beginning of the universe, erasing multiple events and creating new possibilities.
Liu Kang’s endgame and possible outcomes
Liu Kang, immune to the effects of time manipulation, enters the endgame of Mortal Kombat 11, facing various challenges and potential outcomes depending on the choices made throughout the timeline.
The Conclusion of the Timeline
Canonical ending and DLC story expansion
The canonical ending of Mortal Kombat 11 sees Liu Kang emerge victorious, leading to the DLC story expansion titled “Aftermath.”
Mortal Kombat: Aftermath
In “Aftermath,” Raiden and Liu Kang, along with the help of Shang Tsung, Fujin, and Nightwolf, attempt to fix the timeline and restore order. They face challenges, including Shang Tsung’s schemes and his attempt to resurrect Queen Sindel to defeat Cronica.
Raiden and Liu Kang’s attempt to fix history
Raiden and Liu Kang, as the chosen defenders of Earthrealm, embark on a quest to rectify the alterations made to history caused by the presence of multiple timelines.
Shang Tsung’s scheme and the final fight
Shang Tsung, a consummate schemer, plans to use the Crown of Souls to defeat Cronica and take control over all realms. However, Liu Kang confronts him in a final battle to determine the outcome of their struggle.
Outcomes of Shang Tsung’s defeat
The outcome of Shang Tsung’s defeat depends on the choices made throughout the game. Either Shang Tsung emerges victorious, conquering all realms, or Liu Kang erases Shang Tsung from existence, securing a victory for Earthrealm.
The Future of the Mortal Kombat Timeline
A more peaceful timeline sought by Liu Kang
With the conclusion of Mortal Kombat 11 and its DLC story expansion, Liu Kang aims to establish a more peaceful and balanced timeline for all realms.
Rebooted roles and shifting tensions within clans
As the timeline resets and new opportunities arise, key players in the Mortal Kombat universe may find themselves in rebooted roles, and tensions within clans and realms may shift.
The return of Shang Tsung and a mysterious new enemy
Despite Shang Tsung’s defeat, there are hints that he may return, potentially from another timeline or dimension. Furthermore, a mysterious new enemy arises, posing unexpected challenges for Liu Kang and his allies.
The Mortal Kombat timeline is a convoluted and ever-evolving narrative that spans across realms, generations, and timelines. With each new installment, the franchise continues to captivate fans with its intense battles, complex characters, and intricate storytelling. As the future of the Mortal Kombat universe unfolds, players can anticipate more thrilling adventures and unexpected twists in the ongoing struggle between good and evil.
The Mortal Kombat franchise is known for its complex and intricate timeline. Spanning across 13 games, the series not only resets itself once, but twice.
Now is the perfect time for you to explore the chaotic world of Mortal Kombat. Dive deep into the rich history and captivating storylines that have defined this iconic fighting game franchise.
In this video, you will discover the origins of the Elder Gods and the Mortal Kombat tournament. You will also unravel the timeline-altering events of Mortal Kombat 11, including the intriguing story of Kroknia. Prepare to be amazed as this video unravels the long and perplexing timeline of Mortal Kombat.
Watch the Mortal Kombat timeline fully explained here: Timeline Playlist – The Complete THE LAST OF US Timeline
