10 Video Games That Won By Destroying EVERYTHING

Mortal Kombat made a massive impression on the gaming world, thanks to its digitised graphics, distinctive character roster, and solid kombat. Of course, it was the barbaric violence and finishing moves that really cemented MK's legacy.

But over time, the bloodshed wasn't enough to save Ed Boon and John Tobias' fighting franchise. The fifth instalment, Mortal Kombat: Deception, was received favourably, but the overarching narrative was too convoluted and the roster was a letdown. (Does anyone remember Kira or Kobra?) 

With MK: Armageddon feeling like a lazy rehash and MK VS DC Universe toning down the violence, the fanbase were deservingly pissed. The once-unstoppable brand had become such a mess, it was in desperate need of a reset.

And that's exactly what happened. Under a new development company, NetherRealm Studios released a retcon of the first three games in 2011, simply called Mortal Kombat. It utilised a 2.5D-styled environment to replicate the two-dimensional feel of the initial trilogy. The multiple fighting styles and weapon system introduced in MK: Deadly Alliance were discarded, putting the spotlight once again on special moves and kombos. (And spamming. Lots of spamming.)

However, the reboot's greatest triumph was how the plot unfolded. The Story Mode blended brawls with detailed cinematic sequences, fleshing out the ensemble in a way never seen before. The Story Mode was such a success, it's been replicated in other fight-fests, including Tekken and Street Fighter.

Mortal Kombat has had its ups and downs, but the 2011 version is probably where it peaked.