Top-5 Alternative Games for Mortal Kombat Aficionados

Fans of the iconic video game series "Mortal Kombat" are well aware that the franchise's appeal lies not only in its brutal combat mechanics but also in its intriguing storylines and rich world-building. While few games can replicate the exact experience of a Mortal Kombat match, several other titles offer similar elements that may satisfy fans' thirst for intense action, engrossing narratives, and immersive settings. Here are five alternative games to Mortal Kombat that deserve your attention.

1. Street Fighter V

Gameplay

As one of the most popular fighting franchises worldwide, Street Fighter needs no introduction. Its fifth main installment maintains the series' classic 2D fighting mechanics while introducing new features like V-Skills and V-Triggers, which give characters unique abilities and powerful attacks to spice up matches.

Story

Street Fighter V continues the saga of martial artists from around the globe competing in the World Warrior tournament. The narrative is episodic, focusing on individual characters' backstories and motivations before culminating in a main storyline involving an evil organization's dark plot.

Setting

The game takes players across various countries as they battle it out in diverse stages ranging from bustling cities to tranquil temples, reflecting each character's nationality or personality.

2. Tekken 7

Gameplay

Tekken 7 retains its predecessor’s 3D fighting system but introduces new mechanics such as Rage Arts and Power Crushes, adding more depth to battles. It also supports online multiplayer mode where players can test their mettle against others worldwide.

Story

Tekken 7 is the conclusion of the Mishima clan saga, a family feud that has been the central plot of the series. The narrative delves into the reasons behind Heihachi's coup against his father, shedding light on this complex and troubled family.

Setting

Set in various locales worldwide, Tekken 7 showcases its global cast with diverse fighting stages reflecting their roots or narrative importance.

3. Guilty Gear Xrd REV 2

Gameplay

Guilty Gear Xrd REV 2 is known for its fast-paced battles that reward aggressive playstyles. It features mechanics like Roman Cancels and Burst Gauges to break opponents' combos or escape deadly situations, leading to intense back-and-forth fights.

Story

REV 2 continues Guilty Gear's intricate narrative about a post-apocalyptic world where magic and technology coexist. The storyline explores themes of identity, fate, and human nature through its colorful cast’s perspectives.

Setting

The game’s vibrant cell-shaded graphics bring its dystopian world to life, from desolate wastelands to futuristic cities teeming with neon lights.

4. Injustice 2

Gameplay

Injustice 2 combines traditional fighting gameplay with RPG elements like character leveling and gear customization. Its unique trait system gives characters abilities representing their comic book counterparts, adding another layer of strategy to fights.

Story

Injustice 2 presents an alternate DC Universe where Superman becomes a tyrant following Joker's trickery. Batman must rally heroes and villains alike to stop this regime while dealing with a new extraterrestrial threat.

Setting

The game features iconic DC locations like Gotham City and Metropolis, reimagined through the lens of Injustice’s dark and gritty universe.

5. Killer Instinct

Gameplay

Killer Instinct emphasizes combo-based combat, where players can string together multiple hits into devastating attacks. Its Combo Breaker mechanic allows players to interrupt opponents' combos, turning battles into mind games of anticipation and reaction.

Story

The game follows various fighters as they're drawn into a tournament by an evil corporation with sinister motives. Each character has their story mode, unveiling their individual motivations and roles in the overarching narrative.

Setting

Killer Instinct's stages are as varied as its cast, featuring haunted forests, industrial complexes, ancient temples, and more, each complemented by dynamic music that intensifies with the battle's pace.

Each of these five games offers unique variations on Mortal Kombat's formula of intense fighting gameplay combined with engaging narratives and rich settings. Whether you prefer Street Fighter V's strategic bouts, Tekken 7's 3D battles, Guilty Gear Xrd REV 2's high-speed clashes, Injustice 2's comic book drama, or Killer Instinct's combo-centric fights – there is something for every Mortal Kombat fan in this list.