Why do people hate mk1

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: The Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1) reboot released in 2023 faced criticism for its aggressive monetization, with premium skins costing up to $10 each and a $70 base game price. Technical issues at launch included server instability and bugs affecting gameplay. Some fans disliked the new timeline and character redesigns, feeling they strayed from the series' roots. The game also received backlash for its seasonal content model, which many viewed as repetitive and grindy.

Key Facts

Mortal Kombat 1 released on September 19, 2023 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC
The game received mixed reviews on Steam, with only 56% positive ratings shortly after launch
Premium character skins in MK1 cost up to 1,250 Dragon Krystals (approximately $10) each
The base game launched at $69.99, with a $109.99 Premium Edition including early access and DLC characters
MK1 introduced a new timeline resetting the franchise's story, which divided long-time fans

Overview

Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1) is a 2023 fighting game developed by NetherRealm Studios and published by Warner Bros. Games, serving as both a reboot and the twelfth main installment in the Mortal Kombat series. The game was officially announced on May 18, 2023, and released on September 19, 2023 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. MK1 introduces a new timeline created by Fire God Liu Kang after the events of Mortal Kombat 11, completely resetting the franchise's continuity and reimagining classic characters with new origins and relationships. The game features a roster of 24 playable characters at launch, including returning favorites like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Raiden, along with new Kameo Fighters who assist during matches. Despite strong initial sales, MK1 faced significant criticism from players regarding its monetization practices, technical performance, and creative direction, leading to divided reception within the fighting game community.

How It Works

MK1's criticism stems from several interconnected factors. Monetization works through an in-game store selling premium currency called Dragon Krystals, which players purchase with real money to buy character skins, fatalities, and other cosmetics. The seasonal model operates with 6-week seasons offering free and premium reward tracks, requiring extensive grinding to unlock content. Technical issues at launch included server instability preventing online play, bugs causing crashes and visual glitches, and poor optimization on PC and Nintendo Switch versions. The creative reboot works by completely rewriting character backstories and relationships—for example, making Scorpion and Sub-Zero brothers rather than rivals—which alienated some long-time fans. Gameplay changes include simplified combo systems and the new Kameo Fighter mechanic, which some competitive players felt reduced skill expression compared to previous entries.

Why It Matters

The MK1 controversy matters because it reflects broader industry trends affecting AAA game development. The aggressive monetization sets precedents for future fighting games, potentially normalizing $10 cosmetic items in full-priced titles. Technical issues at launch damage player trust and highlight the industry's trend of releasing unfinished games. The divided reception impacts the Mortal Kombat franchise's 30-year legacy, potentially alienating core fans who have supported the series since 1992. These factors collectively influence consumer expectations for future NetherRealm games and Warner Bros. publishing decisions, with potential long-term effects on fighting game monetization standards and development practices across the industry.