The Mortal Kombat franchise has once again reinvented itself with the 2023 reboot of Mortal Kombat 1, promising a nostalgic yet fresh experience for fans and newcomers alike. We’ve taken a deep dive into the Mortal Kombat 1 review scores to give you a holistic view of the gaming world’s initial reactions.
As you journey through our article, you’ll scoop the commendations, critiques, and surprises this reworked title got. Gear up to relive the magic of Mortal Kombat with a modern twist.
Related: Mortal Kombat 1 Playtime Is Fairly Acceptable
Mortal Kombat 1 Review Scores

After the epic events of MK11, Liu Kang rose to the status of a god. This time around, we’re treated to brand-new tales from a universe Liu Kang masterfully shaped. This universe is different from others, and we’ll see different stories about classic players like Scorpion and Sub-Zero.
Drawing a parallel to Street Fighter 6, which hit the shelves earlier this year, Mortal Kombat 1 review scores are making waves. The PS5 version holds a solid 84 average from 22 reviews on Metacritic. Now, if you’re wondering about the lower user scores, it’s not about the gameplay. It’s a geopolitical hiccup – Mortal Kombat 1’s online feature faces restrictions in Russia and Belarus.
Now, let’s dive into the standout feedback from Mortal Kombat 1 review scores:
- Screen Rant — 70
- TheGamer — 80
- IGN — 80
- VG247 — 80
- Game Informer — 90
- CGMagazine — 90
- Dexerto — 100
While the Mortal Kombat 1 review scores may vary, they echo a similar sentiment: Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) is a breath of fresh air the series was yearning for. Once teetered on the edge of monotony, the single-player mode has found a renewed sense of purpose in this reboot.
The storytelling by NetherRealm Studios is next level. With a generous sprinkle of cutscenes, more than they’ve ever used, it’s genuinely heartwarming to see characters at odds for three decades fighting side by side.
Comments About Mortal Kombat 1

The gaming community’s verdict on the game is generally favourable, but there are always varied opinions. Some critics have lavished praise on the new Mortal Kombat with a high score of 100, while others have been more reserved, rating it as low as 70. However, Mortal Kombat 1 review scores are on the same boat.
Christopher Teuton from Screen Rant gave Mortal Kombat 1 a score of 70, stating, “As someone’s first Mortal Kombat game, Mortal Kombat 1 is a perfectly adequate but not ideal place to start (That would still be Mortal Kombat 2011)”.
In stark contrast, Andrew Highton from Dexerto admires the title, giving it 100 points. He says, “Mortal Kombat 1 not only reboots its universe, but everything you know and love about fighting games. There is a ton of content to enjoy here, and NetherRealm has peaked at the right time with fierce competition coming before and after its release.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mortal Kombat 1 a Remake of the Original Game?
No, released on September 14, 2023, the latest Mortal Kombat 1 isn’t just a rehash of the iconic 1992 original. Instead, it’s a bold leap forward, hitting the reset button on the series’ timeline and ushering in a fresh chapter. While there’s a nod to the dramatic climax of MK11, we’re introduced to modern takes on our favourite fighters. Think Liu Kang, now the God of Fire, and Raiden sans godly status.
Why Is It Mortal Kombat 1?
You might wonder why this game isn’t labelled Mortal Kombat 12. Well, it’s straightforward. Everything feels new, with the story and timeline completely overhauling and our beloved characters getting fresh backstories (Like Liu Kang crafting an entirely new universe). Hence, NetherRealm Studios decided to go back to where it all began with the name Mortal Kombat 1.
Is Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) Worth It?
Absolutely! Available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch, this latest instalment doesn’t just serve up a riveting new tale. The combat mechanics are slick, but the jaw-dropping graphics genuinely steal the show. You’ll see an agreement among critics singing its praises by glancing at the Mortal Kombat 1 review scores.
Author Profile

- My journey into the world of video games began at four, when I was first introduced to arcade machines in 1996. Over the past decades, I've been fortunate enough to witness the incredible evolution of gaming, as it has grown from a niche hobby to a thriving art. Today, I'm dedicated to creating content that celebrates all genres of games. We will talk about them at Player.me.