MK1 Game Editions Explained

Like every other successful fighting game, Mortal Kombat 1 allows gamers to choose between various editions, from the most basic one to luxuriously expanded.

At the beginning of its lifespan, MK1 offers three editions, but this number may get bigger with the inevitable addition of new content.

In this article on DashFight, we give a detailed explanation of what MK1 game editions exist. Also, we give general advice on what to buy — primarily for non-core-FGC people.

Mortal Kombat 1 Game editions

Three MK1 Editions include two digital versions with different amounts of content and one physical copy that comes with even more content and also with unique physical collectibles.

Mortal Kombat 1 Standard Edition

This is just the most basic version of the game. But that does not mean it’s an inferior choice.

The Standard Edition includes every MK1 game mode and the full basic roster, main characters and Kameo Fighters.

Mortal Kombat 1 Premium Edition

Naturally, the base game is here, and the Premium Edition provides its owners with the same essential set of modes and characters. So, what comes extra?

This edition includes six new playable characters and five Kameos, planned to be released in the future. In other words, the first MK1 DLC is also here. Moreover, they will be playable one week earlier.

The skin of Jean-Claude Van Damme for Johnny Cage comes with the Premium Edition of Mortal Kombat 1 at no additional cost.

One extra part of this edition seems to be much more practical for active players — 1,250 Dragon Krystals. This in-game currency is important for customizing your characters. Krystals cost real-world currency, so this might be a good investment. For more info on this topic, check out our guide on the complex MK currency system.

Mortal Kombat 1 Kollector’s Edition

Well, this MK1 edition is as luxurious as you could imagine. Everything from Premium is also here, and you get even more Dragon Krystals — 2,700. And then come Physical Collectibles:

• A sculpture of Liu Kang, 16.5” tall, with some glow-in-the-dark elements;
• Art prints inspired by MK1.

As a physical copy, the edition comes with an exclusive steel case.

MK1 Kollector’s Edition also gives a special digital something — an exclusive limited-edition color variant of Liu Kang (inspired by the sculpture).

Mortal Kombat, with its visceral combat, iconic characters, and immersive storylines, has garnered a massive fan base since its debut in 1992. Time will tell if there will be a Mortal Kombat slot when we’ve seen such a rise in ‘combat-themed’ slot machines like Deadly Combat, StreetFighter and more at popular online casinos. The game's intense action and distinctive aesthetic would be well-suited for adaptation into slot machines and other gambling formats.

Which MK1 is better to buy?

It’s that part where we give our advice, which is not the ultimate truth at all. And these tips are mainly for casual players and newcomers to the genre — the FGC rather knows what they want.

MK1 Standard Edition is an excellent choice if you want to complete the story mode, enjoy matches with friends, and occasionally fight online, having every base character in your possession. Potentially, the game will hook you, and you will be converted into a dedicated fan. If this happens, the DLC will be there to purchase.

MK1 Premium Edition is a pretty good deal if you know that your passion for the game expands further than rare matches at parties. Consider making this purchase if you are excited about exploring movesets of different characters, like to show off with custom character style, and generally play Mortal Kombat a lot. 

The Kollector’s Edition is for dedicated fans and… let’s say it, clever traders.

Which Mortal Kombat 1 Edition Includes Shang Tsung?

This character was available as a pre-order bonus for every MK1 Edition. “Was” is a keyword here. If you’ve missed the pre-order campaign, Shang Tsung is available only as a purchasable DLC.

Is he worth buying? Yes! He is an interesting and strong character. Even if you are reluctant about Premium Edition, consider buying Shang Tsung for your roster. Of course, there is no hurry with this. Take your time with the base game and make sure you really enjoy it.

On What Platforms Is MK1 Available?

Mortal Kombat 1 has been released for:

• PC (Steam)

• PlayStation 5

• Xbox Series/One

• Nintendo Switch

Standard and Premium Editions are available on every platform.

Kollector’s Edition can be purchased only for Xbox and PlayStation.

Is the Switch version worth buying?

Do it only if this is really the only platform for you to play MK1. The visuals of this generally hyper-realistic game are just broken on the Nintendo consoles, and this part can’t be solved.

As Mortal Kombat 1 gets more DLC characters and various expansions, we may get other game editions. Stay tuned to DashFight, and we’ll inform you about everything interesting and important happening with MK1.

Meanwhile, if you still have doubts about buying the game, check out DashFight’s Video Review of Mortal Kombat 1.