Mortal Kombat 11 was released back in 2019, yet it’s still going strong in 2023. If you haven’t jumped in yet, especially with the game often on sale, you may be wondering if MK11 is worth picking up at this point. There are some key things to know before taking the plunge.
Gameplay Isn’t as Fast as Mortal Kombat X
One of the first things you’ll notice booting up MK11 is that the gameplay feels slower compared to Mortal Kombat X. The speed of a fighting game makes a huge difference in terms of feel and flow. So if you got used to the quicker pace of MKX, be prepared for this change.
It’s not necessarily worse, just different. But it’s something to be aware of if you plan on playing MK11 after putting serious time into the previous instalment.
Some Fan Favorites Are Missing from the Roster
The roster size in MK11 is impressive, but a few fan-favorite characters failed to make the cut. Ermac is nowhere to be found in this entry, for example. Other classics like Reptile and Smoke are also absent.
In terms of guest characters, the alien and predator DLC fighters from MKX don’t return either. Of course with so many kombatants old and new, there are plenty of options. But expect to miss playing as a few Mortal Kombat mainstays.
Exploring The Krypt Sounds Fun…At First
Wandering around Shang Tsung’s island and discovering hidden riches in the Krypt is cool for franchise fans. But the randomized loot system leads to tons of filler rewards. Opening chest after chest hoping for that one skin or brutality you want results in lots of disappointments.
They fixed the Krypt’s grindy nature compared to the launch. But the randomness still leads to frustration more often than excitement. Just don’t get your hopes up too high for sweet unlocks from each chest.
How Long to Beat MK11’s Story?
Mortal Kombat games have featured story modes ever since MK vs DC Universe back in 2008. MK11’s cinematic narrative picks up right where MKX left off, with time travel hijinks bringing multiple character versions together.
You can expect the main story to take around 5 hours to complete. There’s also the Aftermath DLC expansion which adds an additional 2.5 hours of story content. So between 7-8 hours of cutscenes and fights to enjoy in total.
You Need an Online Connection to Unlock Stuff
This might be a bummer if you were hoping to unlock skins, gear, and extras entirely offline. But to earn any currency or make meaningful progress in the Krypt, an internet connection is required. The same goes for Towers of Time rewards.
You can still play the core offline modes like local versus fights and arcade ladders no problem. But to unlock rewards at a reasonable pace, being connected is mandatory. Something to consider if you play mainly offline.
Forget Modern Extras – This is all Fighting
Previous Mortal Kombat games had extra side content beyond just fighting. Like puzzle games, racing modes, and open-world exploration. But MK11 keeps the focus entirely on mastering its many kombatants.
Outside of the core fighting mechanics, the only extras are the Krypt and Towers with modifier effects. If you were hoping for minigames or modern features like character creation, this entry keeps things pure and simple.
The Switch Version Gets the Job Done
Mortal Kombat 11 runs surprisingly well on the Nintendo Switch given the graphical demands. However, expect visual downgrades compared to other platforms. The resolution is lower and certain details aren’t as sharp.
But where it counts, MK11 on Switch maintains a smooth 60fps fighting experience. So while it might not look as pretty docked on a big screen, the Switch version still plays great. Making it a solid option for portable Kombat.
Newcomers Have Plenty of Tools to Learn
Between the detailed tutorial system, fatality trainer, character tutorials, and practice options, MK11 does a great job easing new players. The fighting mechanics have plenty of depth to master, but the basics are communicated well.
And with “dial-a-combo” control schemes, even newcomers can pull off impressive-looking attacks. MK11 manages to be welcoming for casual fans but with enough underlying complexity for veterans.
Tons of Solo Content Keeps You Busy
From arcade ladders to Towers of Time and the Krypt, you can sink hours into MK11 without ever going online. The towers serve up plenty of variation too by adding modifier effects to battles. So there’s always a new challenge to take on.
While you’ll have to head online eventually to unlock some rewards, MK11 is absolutely packed with offline modes and content. You won’t run out of challenges testing your skills in solo play.
At full price, MK11 Ultimate with all DLC will run you $60.
FAQ
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Conclusion
Even 3 years after launch, Mortal Kombat 11 holds up incredibly well and is absolutely still worth your time. The methodical gameplay takes adjustment coming from MKX. And you’ll have to accept the online requirements. But with so much content and such strong mechanics, MK11 remains a must-play for fight fans.
Especially when on sale, you simply can’t go wrong with MK11 in 2023. Newcomers have great tools to learn with, while veterans can explore the depths. And solo players will find endless tests of skill with the towers and ladders. Get over here and experience one of the best current fighting games around!
