Mortal Kombat is one of the definitive fighting games, kicking the entire genre into high gear with its original gory release. In the time since it debuted, we’ve had tons of games and spin-offs in the series, even multiple movies. Its up there as one of the best fighting games in its current incarnation. Out of the series’ over 30-year history though, what is the best Mortal Kombat game?

There are quite a few titles in the series which are contenders. The Mortal Kombat franchise has had landmark instalments across generations of gaming. Pretty much everyone likely has a different game which hits their nostalgic sweet spot. Looking at the franchise’s overall influence and impact though, which is the best Mortal Kombat game?

What’s the Best Mortal Kombat Game?

It’s easy to debate one of the older and more impactful titles as the best Mortal Kombat game. For playing in 2023, Mortal Kombat 11 just edged ahead. There are some problems with the game but this is the most fun and polished modern version of the series so far.

Source: Warner Bros Games

Largely, MK 11 was a strong inclusion in the series. It featured a story which pushed the franchise forward in a new way. It introduced characters in the MK roster that have become pretty classic. It’s also one of the more accessible games though.

Mortal Kombat is easier for brand-new players to jump in, with its tons of tutorials. Great for a series that can become pretty dense in places. The core fighting can still be taken to a really high level with enough work though. Mortal Kombat 11 is by no means a simple game. It’s a title that players can put a lot of time into mastering combos, the different fighters, and trying to learn fighting games to a high level. It’s one of the best mixes of accessible and complex that the series has had.

Mortal Kombat 11’s time in the sun is nearly over. We’re getting closer and closer to the Mortal Kombat 1 release date. However, this title is definitely going to go down as one of the best Mortal Kombat games.

Runner Up – Mortal Kombat II

Source: Midway

If we’re looking at the entire history of Mortal Kombat, II might be a lot of players’ pick for the top game. Its probably the most impactful Mortal Kombat game, really taking the series up to the blockbuster franchise it is today. It’s just missed out on the top spot as it can be frustrating for players to jump into today. However, this is one of the best fighting games of all time, especially if you’re willing to spend the time getting to know the older controls and input scheme.

Mortal Kombat II has all of the really classic characters. Its combat is tight enough to propel the series into something competitively viable. Its event the first game that introduces half of the mechanics we’ve come to expect from every Mortal Kombat game. Just like when looking for the best Street Fighter game, the second instalment’s innovations to the series’ style and gameplay are pretty important.

Mortal Kombat 11 is definitely the most fun game to jump into in 2023. Other titles like Mortal Kombat II pushed the entire series to a new level though. With upcoming fighting games like Mortal Kombat 1 too, we could see the best Mortal Kombat game change soon.