With the current-gen editions of Mortal Kombat winding down before their inevitable next-gen makeovers, we take a look at Midway's final assault on this generation's fighting genre.
Graphics
The character models here look very similar to those of MK: Deception. Not that it's a bad thing; just don't expect a sudden change in the look of the characters graphically. The fatalities look as gory as ever and the textures seem to have been improved. The visual quality of the environments are also very noticeable when venturing into different stages throughout the game. Also of note is the addition of some nice particle effects that are pretty obvious when it comes to destructible environments.
Gameplay
Rather than stick with the Deception formula and add a character or two, Midway decided to shake it up just a little bit with Armageddon. Players who have dreamt of the day when they could create themselves and fight against the likes of Sub-Zero, Goro or Reptile, your day has arrived. MKA answers your prayers by featuring its Kreate a Fighter mode. Players can use a multitude of combinations to create a unique look or recreate a real life person. (Jack Thompson we're looking at you!) Aside from the visual combinations, players can also customize their fighting style and combinations, not to mention your own fatalities!
Speaking of fatalities, the system has undergone some changes as well. No longer do you follow a 3-6 button combination and watch as your opponent is mercilessly killed. The new system goes like this: There is a timer in place where players start firing off combinations that little by little reduce your opponent to a puddle of blood, but to actually complete the fatality, you must finish off the entire combination before time expires, otherwise you don't actually get credit for it. Seems kind of weird at first, but it’s a welcomed change of pace.
Remember when you used to (or still) play Mortal Kombat 3? Remember when you faced off against Jade? Do you also remember how she pulled off vicious back to back combinations that left your ass face down and embarrassed? Well fear no more, as Midway has FINALLY nerfed the A.I. For those of you who don't know what I'm talking about, Mortal Kombat has always been notorious for ridiculously difficult A.I. Especially since the debut of the combo system in MK3, the A.I. has been known to block nearly every offensive move and thoroughly destroy you in the latter stages of the tournament. Some characters like Jade would be almost impossible to beat and left many players frustrated. MK: Armageddon has finally toned down the difficulty in that respect and although its still no walk in the park, the A.I. doesn't embarrass you as bad.
As for the fighting system itself, though not much has changed, Midway has reintroduced mid-air combat. Players can once again rack up combos while in flight to add insult to injury. Again, not a huge change but it does add another element to the competition.
MK also features a new mini game and retooled Konquest mode. The mini game consists of a Mario Kart style race with different tracks. Players can choose their favorite characters and take them for a little spin. The catch here is that instead of throwing red shells, players must avoid fatality-inducing obstacles such as pits. This is fun for a few races but honestly gets a bit stale for me personally. The Konquest mode has been shortened up a bit, but the adventure game is actually quite entertaining while it lasts. A good distraction for when one on one matches tires out your scrawny hands.
Sound
The Xbox version features Dolby Digital sound, so the action sounds very crisp and deadly .=) You can't beat the sounds of grown men agonizing on their way down to the pit. The digital audio does a great job of producing background noises such as destrucible objects and stage related sounds. It becomes quite immersive and gives you a sense of really being in the action. Accurate reproduction of weapon sound effects and great seperation of sound. MK makes great use of surround sound technology.
Lasting Appeal
With over 62 characters available, players shouldn't get tired anytime soon. It was sad to see that some of the characters from past MK titles were left out but with such a large cast, it's hard to complain. Getting to know the different combinations and fatalities should take quite a bit of time. Creating your own character is another reason that Armageddon should get plenty of play time. With a large set of customization options both visually and from a move set, players will no doubt spend hours at a time just creating different warriors. Try creating imposing looking characters as well as hysterical and famous people; trust me, you'll have fun with this. The Konquest mode will keep you busy for a while as a nice side distraction and you may even spend some good quality time with the mini racing game.
Fun Factor
This new edition of Mortal Kombat was probably the most entertaining one I've played in a while. Creating a character is half of the fun and once I get tired of it, I just create another one! Try pitting Hulk Hogan vs. Scorpion! Classic stuff! Again, the Konquest adventure is pretty entertaining albeit short. Getting the fatalities down can be challenging but also fun as you'll take apart your opponent piece by piece. Much like creating your character, creating your own fatality combinations will keep you glued to the game.
The 411
Whether you've been playing MK since the first arcade game or have only recently started, this new edition definitely deserves a shot. A huge roster, create a character mode, new Konquest mode and a silly little race car mini game is without a doubt "bang for your buck". The new fatality system is a breath of fresh air and the combat it still pretty solid. A good recommendation!
Graphics
8.5
Solid visuals with improved environments and particle effects
Gameplay
8.5
Similar to Deception and not a huge learning curve for n00bs
Sound
9.0
Can't beat digital sound; Fatalities in surround sound are sweet!
Lasting Appeal
9.0
Create a character...nuff said
Fun Factor
9.0
Like all MKs, the fun never stops. The new fatality system is good stuff
