Summary
Mortal Kombat 1’s Kameo Fighters introduced a new element to the series, and there’s fair argument over whether it should return for the sequel. It was one of the more surprising additions to the game and played a significant role in shaping the meta ofMortal Kombat 1. While the game’s story has been set up for an enticing sequel, the fate of Kameo Fighters is less clear. They could be embraced as an important part of the new timeline’s fights. Conversely, they could be an experiment that ends up abandoned beforeMortal Kombat 2comes out.
In a series first,Mortal Kombat 1introduced Kameo Fighters, who act as unplayable assistants to the player’s chosen fighter. Kameo Fighters each have a small pool of moves that players can activate on command, including projectiles, melee attacks, and support moves. They even have their own Fatalities and Brutalities, albeit fewer than the playable characters. Some Kameos are even alternate versions of fighters already on the playable roster. To date, the roster of Kameo Fighters inMortal Kombat 1consists of:
Mortal Kombat 1’s Kameos Leave Its Sequel With an Important Decision
Kameo Fighters Are a Prominent Tool in Mortal Kombat 1
The main contribution that Kameo Fighters make toMortal Kombat 1’s competitive metais how their own abilities complement the fighters. Since every Kameo can be combined with every playable fighter, they can be worked into many different fighting styles. For example, Sektor’s energy net entangles enemies for so long that it practically guarantees a hit, while Sareena’s multi-hitting sickle throw is a good tool for extra damage. Even non-damaging abilities like Kung Lao’s teleport can prove useful. Just like the fighters themselves,Mortal Kombat 1’s Kameo characters have plenty of utility, and future tournaments will likely do a good job of showing those perks.
Mortal Kombat 1’s Kameo Fighters Are Highly Useful and Feature More Characters
Some decent arguments could be made forgoing further withMortal Kombat 1’s Kameo FightersinMortal Kombat 2. They add an extra element of strategy to a fight, giving players extra tools while also adding an extra obstacle to overcome. In addition, Kameo Fighters can make sure that more characters get some screen time in the game, even if they can’t make it onto the main roster. Since they get to take part and even have their own fatalities, bringing a Kameo Fighter is a step up from being an NPC, andMortal Kombat 2could include more Kameos in kind.
Kameo Fighters Might Be a Gimmick That Doesn’t Last
Players could also come up with reasons for Kameo Fighters not to return, even ifMortal Kombat 2fully follows the previous titleotherwise. Admittedly, they are a gimmick, and a lot of gimmicks don’t last very long, so the developers could decide to go back to basics in the next game. In addition, the Kameo roster itself could be a sore spot for some. Having a character on the Kameo Roster means that their story probably won’t be explored in that game, which is a letdown for their fans. The situation could be likened to whenSuper Smash Bros.characters were Assist Trophies instead of full fighters.
The continued existence of Kameo Fighters won’t be confirmed until information aboutMortal Kombat 2starts coming out. Somecharacters make for excellentMortal KombatKameos, and the mechanic has been good for making fights more interesting. At the same time, there are some potential discrepancies with the idea as well. Overall, there seem to be more positives than negatives when it comes to the Kameo system inMortal Kombat 1. However, the fate of Kameo Fighters comeMortal Kombat 2is ultimately up to NetherRealm.
Mortal Kombat 1
WHERE TO PLAY
Welcome to a new era of Kombat. NetherRealm Studios ushers in a new era of the iconic fighting franchise with a total reset that changes the entire world as we know it. Following the thrilling climax of Mortal Kombat 11, the all-powerful Fire God Liu Kang has created a New Era in the hope of bringing peace to Earthrealm and beyond. Through the series' most cinematic story mode yet, you’ll be reintroduced to a cast of legendary warriors as you’ve never seen them before. Expect twists on classic friendships and rivalries, as well as new backstories that will change everything you think you know about your favorite Kombatants. Discover a host of new offline and online game modes as you master a revitalized fighting system that boasts bone-crunching Fatal Blows, defensive Breakers and the most creatively vicious Fatalities yet.
