Smoke MK11: What Happened to Smoke in Mortal Kombat 11?

Smoke is one of the most iconic and beloved characters in the Mortal Kombat franchise. This cybernetic ninja has been a fan favourite ever since his debut as a secret character in Mortal Kombat II. However, to the dismay of many dedicated Smoke mains, this stealthy fighter was notably absent from MK11’s roster of playable characters. While he made minor cameos in the game’s story mode and Krypt area, these brief appearances were not enough to satisfy players eager to battle with Smoke once again.

Smoke’s Backstory: From Hidden Gem to Robotic Warrior

For those unfamiliar with his origins, Smoke started out as a hidden character in MK2 before becoming a playable fighter in MK3. In that game, his backstory revealed he was actually a human assassin named Tomas Vrbada whose soul was trapped in the body of a cyborg.

Smoke’s inner turmoil as a human struggling against his mechanized form made him a fan favourite and added depth to his character. His last appearance as a fully playable fighter was in MK9, where he returned to his human form.

Conspicuously Absent: Smoke’s Vanishing Act in MK11

So why was Smoke absent from the roster in MK11? While he briefly appeared in the game’s story mode and as an Easter egg in the Krypt, he could not be selected as a playable character.

As it turns out, Smoke was killed off-screen by Sindel during the events between MK9 and MK11. His soul was later resurrected by Quan Chi and enslaved as a revenant servant in the Netherrealm.

MK11’s director Ed Boon cryptically explained Smoke’s absence by saying he “needed a rest”. This likely means the developers wanted to bench Smoke for this instalment and possibly bring him back in the future. While understandable, this was still a major letdown for Smoke devotees eagerly awaiting his return.

The Agony of Defeat: Fan Reactions to Losing a Favorite

As one of the series’ most iconic ninjas, Smoke’s omission from MK11 was met with strong criticism from players who relished using him.

After being included as DLC in MKX, fans hoped his run as a playable fighter would continue. Some speculated he may have been killed off in MK11’s story mode, but this was never officially confirmed.

Ultimately, while roster slots are limited in any fighting game, Smoke’s absence was a missed opportunity to showcase this beloved character after years of anticipation. For Smoke stalwarts, his disappearance was an unfortunate betrayal just when they hoped to reunite with their treasured main.

Will the Smoke Clear? The Hazy Future for the Cyber Ninja

Could Smoke make a comeback down the road? The clues point to yes. Ed Boon’s reference to Smoke needing “rest” indicates he may return refreshed in a future game like MK12. As a timeless ninja character with a rich backstory, he seems ripe for a triumphant return to playable status.

For now, Smoke remains confined to a revenant fate in MK11’s current timeline. But the clouds of mystery surrounding his absence may yet give way to clarity.

Perhaps one day this cybernetic warrior will emerge from the darkness to smoke his opponents once more. Until then, dedicated Smoke fans cling to the hope that their elusive main stays gone but not forgotten.

FAQ About Smoke in MK11

Conclusion

Smoke’s lack of playability in Mortal Kombat 11 was a crushing blow to fans of this iconic cyber ninja. While his brief cameos offered some solace, Smoke devotees were heartbroken that their beloved main remained confined to the sidelines. However, clues from the developers suggest Smoke’s absence from this instalment may prove temporary.

As a core piece of MK’s historic roster, hopes still linger that Smoke will one day dissipate his revenant chains and ignition his fighting spirit anew. For now, his stunned loyalists must find patience through the sadness. But the future yet may clear the air and see this fan favourite emerge from the fog to take his rightful place on the battlefield once more.