Mortal Kombat is one of the most popular fighting game franchises ever. The brutal, over-the-top violence and iconic characters like Scorpion and Sub-Zero have made it a cultural phenomenon for decades. In 2015, Mortal Kombat X was released to much excitement from fans. The following year, an upgraded definitive edition called Mortal Kombat XL came out. For gamers trying to decide between Mortal Kombat X and XL, it can be confusing to understand the differences. Here is a straightforward guide to the key distinctions between the two versions.
What is Mortal Kombat X?
Mortal Kombat X is the 10th main installment in the legendary fighting game series. It was developed by NetherRealm Studios and published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment in 2015 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows.
MKX introduced brand new characters like Cassie Cage, daughter of Sonya Blade and Johnny Cage, as well as Kotal Kahn, the new ruler of Outworld. It also brought back classic fighters and added some new twists to their moves. The game features 2 player local and online multiplayer battles. It also has an expansive cinematic story mode that continues the epic narrative from previous Mortal Kombat games.
Overall, Mortal Kombat X received positive reviews from gaming publications and fans. The fighting gameplay, graphics, new characters, and content were widely praised. However, some players experienced technical issues at launch, especially on the PC version.
What is Mortal Kombat XL?
Mortal Kombat XL is an upgraded, definitive edition of MKX that was released in March 2016 for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. It includes the base Mortal Kombat X game along with all the previously released downloadable content (DLC) packs.
The biggest addition in MKXL is 4 brand new playable characters – the Alien Xenomorph from the Alien films, horror icon Leatherface from Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Mortal Kombat cyborgs Triborg and Bo’Rai Cho. This expands the roster from 33 in MKX to 37 in MKXL.
MKXL also comes packed with the Kombat Pack 1 & 2 DLC, adding guest characters like Jason Voorhees and Predator. It incorporates new Apocalypse skins for the fighters and nearly every other skin previously released as DLC for MKX. The developers improved the gameplay mechanics and online netcode to provide a smoother multiplayer experience compared to MKX.
Key Differences Between Mortal Kombat X and Mortal Kombat XL
Now that you understand what each game is, let’s dive into the nitty gritty of how they differ. Here are some of the major ways that Mortal Kombat XL builds on and improves over the original MKX:
- More Content – MKXL has 4 extra fighters, new skins, and continues the story from MKX. MKX requires buying DLC to get the same content.
- Enhanced Online Multiplayer – Connectivity and performance issues in MKX’s online play were rectified in MKXL for a better experience.
- New Characters and Story – The added characters in MKXL also bring new chapters to the story mode, extending it beyond MKX’s cliffhanger ending.
- Smoother Gameplay – Through patches and the upgrade to MKXL, the core fighting gameplay was made more balanced and refined.
- Definitive Edition – MKXL is the complete edition with everything included, while MKX feels lacking without the DLC.
- Lower Price Now – MKX cost full price at launch, but can now be found cheaper since MKXL is out.
Which Version of Mortal Kombat Should You Get?
So with the differences laid out, which Mortal Kombat game is right for you – Mortal Kombat X or Mortal Kombat XL? Here are some things to consider:
- If you want the biggest bang for your buck, MKXL is clearly the better option. You get the full package of content and improvements for an amazing Mortal Kombat experience.
- MKX is still a great fighting game in its own right. If you find it at a discounted price and don’t care as much for extra characters or skins, it can be a good choice.
- Don’t worry about the launch issues on MKX – most have been patched. But MKXL certainly runs smoother.
- Get MKXL if you want the complete story experience. MKX has a cliffhanger ending while MKXL fills in the gaps.
- Can’t decide? You really can’t go wrong with either for some excellent Mortal Kombat action. Pick based on price and desire for content.
Frequently Asked Questions About MKX and MKXL
Here are answers to some common questions about Mortal Kombat X versus Mortal Kombat XL:
Is MKXL a separate game from MKX?
Does MKXL on PS4 and Xbox One include all DLC?
How is the gameplay different between MKX and MKXL?
Does MKXL have better graphics than MKX?
Should I get MKX or MKXL for PC?
Conclusion
Mortal Kombat XL is the definitive edition of MKX. It provides the complete Mortal Kombat experience with all content, smoother gameplay, and enhancements over the original. But Mortal Kombat X still holds up as a great fighting game on its own for a lower price point. Whether you go with X or XL, you’ll get hours of bloody brawling action featuring iconic characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Raiden. For the best package overall, go with Mortal Kombat XL. But you can’t go wrong picking up Mortal Kombat X if you find a good deal.
