In an epic clash between iconic factions of the Mortal Kombat past and present, opinions of the MK Reddit Kommunity collided over the best Kombat Pack 1 between MK11 and the newly released MK1, which has a stellar roster of downloadable content.
In one corner, MK11 arrives with returning legends like Shang Tsung, Nightwolf, and Sindel, plus guest characters including The Terminator, DC's Joker, and longtime fan-requested comic antihero Spawn. MK1 counterpunches with a lineup featuring deadly sorcerers Quan Chi and Ermac, The Boys' Homelander, Invincible's Omni-Man, DC's Peacemaker, and the comeback of Takeda.
While the characters of MK11 elicit nostalgia for the '90s with characters from seminal action movies and comics, MK1 focuses on modern superhero media and the current comic landscape. But does new school beat out old, or are the classics eternal?
As the debate wages on speculation and early impressions, some fans looked back at MKX's horror-themed DLC, mentioning Jason Voorhees and Predator. In contrast, others reminisced on MK9's inclusions, like Kratos and Freddy Krueger.
Many fans argue that MK11's pack can't be beat when nailing that '90s movie magic. Terminator and Spawn invoke a feel of watching R-rated action and horror classics on VHS tapes back in the day. Plus, having actual actors reprise their roles, like Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa as Shang Tsung, brings back OG MK film nostalgia.
However, others counter that MK1's choices excel precisely because they avoid repeating the past. Homelander and Omni-Man represent the vanguard of complex modern "antiheroes" from comics and shows that subvert outdated superhero tropes. Fresh blood like Peacemaker and Takeda revitalize the roster.
Yet a vocal contingent believes packing MK1's DLC with two evil Supermen in Homelander and Omni-Man is redundant and deflates the novelty. MK11 warranted praise for including wildly diverse horror, sci-fi, and comic icons that broaden representation. Of course, some cite this as precisely why MK1 wins - merging hot comic franchises introduces Mortal Kombat to new generations. MK11 alternatively indulges older fans at the expense of attracting youth.
The debate rages on regarding MK1 choices like Ermac and Quan Chi getting locked behind DLC paywalls despite featuring prominently in the base game's story mode. However, MK11 base roster members like Shang Tsung and Sindel receiving the DLC treatment raised eyebrows.
Until we see the full scope of MK1's DLC roster, the verdict on the Greatest Kombat Pack 1 remains split. Whether reliving nostalgia or introducing groundbreaking new challenges, both games ensure a lot of fun, and one thing is sure - NetherRealm consistently crafts characters that leave fans endlessly debating.
So, which Pack 1 gets your vote? Let us know in the comments!