Fatalities are a standout feature of the Mortal Kombat series. Delivering that final, extra-violent move to your fallen enemies feels satisfying. Yet, some days, you might offer a defeated opponent a second chance. That’s where the Mercy mechanic steps in. Here’s your guide to performing Mercy in Mortal Kombat 1.
The series has also introduced other notable moves like Brutalities and Friendships, ramping up the action. With the Mortal Kombat 1 reboot, NetherRealm ensures you can pull off most of these stunts.
Before learning to perform Mercy in Mortal Kombat 1, you can check out how to execute Fatalities, Brutalities, and Friendship moves.
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What Is Mercy in Mortal Kombat 1?

Mercy in Mortal Kombat 1 allows players to spare their rivals after a fierce fight momentarily. Instead of landing the final hit, players can choose “Mercy”, restoring a slight portion of their opponent’s health and giving them another shot at victory.
While it might seem like an act of kindness, it’s often a strategic move used to taunt or mentally challenge the opposition. It’s a gamble, introducing an element of unpredictability to the match.
Related: Mortal Kombat 1 Kombat Pack: Homelander Is Here
How to Perform Mercy in Mortal Kombat 1?

When an opponent’s health is fully depleted in Mortal Kombat games, they enter the “Finish Him/Her” stage. Players can either execute a Fatality/Brutality or go for Mercy. Choosing Mercy in Mortal Kombat 1 revives a small fraction of the opponent’s health, prolonging the back. But remember, the player who showed Mercy can still be defeated.
There is currently no way to perform Mercy in Mortal Kombat 1. NetherRealm did not include this much-anticipated feature in the launch of their new game. So, even if you have a great advantage over your competitors, you still need to give them a second chance. This feature was included in Mortal Kombat 11, the series’ previous game.
But don’t give up your hopes completely. Evidence suggests that NetherRealm had initially planned to incorporate Mercy. Supa_Link’s post on the Mortal Kombat Leaks subreddit reveals players receiving daily quests prompting them to “Perform Mercies”. Despite being a seemingly impossible task, as you can’t enact a Mercy in MK1, this hint indicates the feature’s potential presence during development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Mercy Code in Mortal Kombat 11?
To execute a Mercy, ensure you’re at a mid-range distance during the pivotal “Finish Him” moment. Grasp the Left Trigger Button firmly, then swiftly tap Down three times. Once done, release the Left Trigger. To make it easy: L2 (Hold), D, D, D, (Release).
When Was Mercy Introduced in Mortal Kombat?
Introduced in Mortal Kombat 3 in 1995, the Mercy feature stands out as a testament to the game’s evolving tactics and strategy. It’s not just a move — it’s a gesture, providing your worn-out opponent with a glimmer of hope by restoring a minimal chunk of their health.
How Many Times Can You Mercy in Mortal Kombat?
You can only perform one Mercy per game. This limitation ensures matches don’t stretch into eternity. But this isn’t just about charity or showmanship. It grants them another opportunity to unleash Brutality, another compelling and dramatic finishing move in the Mortal Kombat games.
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