Best Mortal Kombat Characters
Mortal Kombat has been one of the most iconic fighting game franchises in history. From its brutal fatalities to its unforgettable characters, the series has captured the attention of gamers worldwide for decades. With each new release, players debate who the best Mortal Kombat characters are not only in terms of gameplay performance but also for their lore, design, and impact on the series. This topic will explore the most popular and powerful characters that have defined Mortal Kombat across generations, highlighting what makes them stand out and how they continue to influence the franchise today.
Scorpion – The Undying Ninja
Scorpion is easily one of the most recognizable characters in Mortal Kombat. His signature catchphrase ‘Get over here!’ and his fiery aesthetic have made him a fan favorite since the very first game. As a resurrected ninja hellbent on revenge, Scorpion’s story is filled with tragedy and vengeance, making him one of the deepest characters in the series.
Strengths
- Great mix-up potential and teleport abilities
- Iconic spear move for fast combo starters
- High mobility and pressure tools
Whether you’re playing casually or competitively, Scorpion offers a versatile and aggressive playstyle that can adapt to almost any situation. His presence in nearly every Mortal Kombat game underlines his importance to the series as a whole.
Sub-Zero – Master of Ice
Another original Mortal Kombat icon, Sub-Zero is the icy counterpart to Scorpion. Known for his ability to freeze enemies and control the battlefield, Sub-Zero has remained one of the best Mortal Kombat characters for his strategic potential and defensive power.
Strengths
- Excellent zoning with ice projectiles
- Combo extensions through freeze mechanics
- Good defensive tools and counterplay options
Sub-Zero appeals to players who enjoy a balanced approach able to both attack and defend with precision. His long-standing rivalry with Scorpion adds layers of depth to his character and contributes significantly to the overall lore of the game.
Raiden – The God of Thunder
Raiden has always played a central role in the Mortal Kombat universe as a protector of Earthrealm. His godlike abilities, teleportation, and lightning-based attacks make him one of the most powerful fighters in the roster.
Strengths
- High-speed teleportation for cross-up attacks
- Strong anti-air and zoning tools
- Excellent corner pressure and stage control
Raiden is often chosen by players who enjoy controlling space and overwhelming their opponents with swift, powerful strikes. As a symbol of justice and order, he brings a unique presence to the chaotic world of Mortal Kombat.
Liu Kang – Champion of Earthrealm
Liu Kang is often seen as the face of Mortal Kombat’s heroism. With his martial arts mastery and dragon-based abilities, Liu Kang has won multiple Mortal Kombat tournaments in the game’s storyline. His straightforward gameplay makes him accessible, but his combo depth appeals to advanced players as well.
Strengths
- Fast strikes and reliable combos
- Strong mobility and pressure
- Powerful fatal blow setups
Liu Kang is a balanced character that suits both newcomers and veterans. His role in the narrative, along with his dependable fighting style, secures him a place among the best Mortal Kombat characters of all time.
Kitana – Deadly Grace
Kitana brings elegance and lethality to the Mortal Kombat universe. As a princess of Edenia, her fighting style revolves around swift movements and razor-sharp steel fans. She combines agility with long-range attacks, allowing for creative and deceptive gameplay.
Strengths
- Effective ranged pressure with fan throws
- Good air mobility and anti-zoning
- Strong combo potential and mix-ups
Kitana appeals to players who enjoy a technical approach and punishing opponents from a distance. Her regal demeanor hides a fierce warrior capable of taking down the strongest foes with finesse and speed.
Johnny Cage – Hollywood Hero
Initially seen as comic relief, Johnny Cage has become one of the most loved characters in the franchise. His flashy moves, sarcastic attitude, and surprising depth make him a top pick for many. In combat, he mixes martial arts with unpredictable behavior, including stuns and counters.
Strengths
- High combo efficiency and pressure
- Unique moves that disrupt rhythm
- Great punishing ability and corner control
Johnny Cage may seem arrogant, but his evolution into a responsible fighter and father figure in later games adds significant depth to his character. His skills in battle back up every boast he makes.
Noob Saibot – Shadow of Death
Noob Saibot offers a dark and menacing playstyle, ideal for players who love psychological warfare. As the resurrected form of the original Sub-Zero, Noob uses clones and shadows to attack from multiple angles, keeping his enemies guessing.
Strengths
- Excellent spacing with shadow clones
- Effective traps and zoning options
- Great for mind games and baiting reactions
Noob Saibot’s unique approach separates him from the rest of the roster. His mysterious aura and brutal combos make him a favorite among competitive players and lore enthusiasts alike.
Shang Tsung – Master of Souls
As a powerful sorcerer who can transform into other fighters, Shang Tsung represents chaos and manipulation. His move-stealing mechanic gives him unmatched versatility, while his soul manipulation adds to his dark, deceptive nature.
Strengths
- Ability to mimic other characters
- Powerful zoning and fireball game
- Unpredictable moveset with high skill ceiling
Shang Tsung is perfect for players who want to adapt on the fly. His shape-shifting ability forces opponents to stay alert, knowing he can use their own moves against them at any moment.
Choosing the best Mortal Kombat characters depends on your playstyle, whether you prefer speed, power, strategy, or deception. Fighters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Raiden, Liu Kang, and others have earned their place at the top through consistent presence, iconic moves, and memorable storylines. Each brings a unique flavor to the game, allowing players to find someone who fits their approach to combat. Whether you’re in it for competitive ranked matches or casual play, the best Mortal Kombat characters are those that combine personality, design, and gameplay mechanics into one unforgettable experience.