Mortal Kombat 11

Mortal Kombat 11 is the most refined and feature-rich entry in the series so far, and one of the best 2D fighters I’ve ever played. It’s slower, more tactical, and full of over-the-top violence, but still manages to feel tight and responsive. Whether you’re a long-time fan or someone who just likes seeing spines get yanked out in HD, MK11 has plenty to offer.

The core combat has been slowed down compared to MKX, and that’s a good thing. There’s no run button, and walk speeds are lower across the board. That shift puts more emphasis on spacing, punishing, and playing smart rather than just rushing down with wild mixups. It feels more like a mental chess match, just one where each move might explode someone’s ribcage.

MK’s signature “dial-a-combo” system returns, requiring specific strings to pull off anything flashy. It’s not the most beginner-friendly setup, but thankfully, Mortal Kombat 11 includes one of the best tutorials in any fighting game ever. It teaches everything from basic spacing to advanced techniques like jailing and frame traps.

The new Krushing Blows and Fatal Blows are a highlight. Krushing Blows are like critical hits with specific requirements, and they often lead to flashy juggles or big damage. Fatal Blows are ultra-powerful once-per-match finishers that add real tension to close fights, especially when both players still have theirs in their pocket.

Customization is deep. Every character has dozens of skins, gear pieces, and special moves you can mix and match in casual play. Sadly, earning all that stuff is a grind. The Krypt and Towers of Time are packed with loot, but the randomization and over-the-top modifiers often make them more frustrating than fun.

Online play, however, is excellent. The netcode is rock-solid, even on bad connections, and all the usual modes are here, ranked, casual, King of the Hill. Ranked locks you into pre-set character variations, which is a bummer, but at least it keeps things balanced.

Mortal Kombat 11 is equal parts spectacle and substance. If you’re willing to push past the grind, you’ll find one of the best fighting games in years, brutal, bold, and bloody brilliant.