Ideas like this were briefly touched upon in Shaolin Monks but could have been far better implemented a second time around. Much like with Shaolin Monks, Scorpion and Sub-Zero's special moves would have likely factored directly into the gameplay, perhaps by having Sub-Zero freeze water to create platforms, or Scorpion's spear being used to activate switches in the distance. Gameplay-wise, it likely would have expanded on the simple, yet surprisingly multi-layered combat system that Shaolin Monks had, which utilized simple to learn combos with upgradeable special moves. There's not much known about the game, though it would have likely featured the long-standing rivals putting aside their differences to face a greater threat, most likely Quan-Chi or Shinnock, given their close ties to the color-coded ninjas. Related: Why Multiple Employees Resigned From Skullgirls' Dev Lab Zero Games Their inherent mistrust of one another, coupled with their ingrained similarities, could have offered a unique insight into their complicated relationship that the classic MK games could never have. As well-loved as Liu Kang and Kung Lao are amongst the fandom, there's no denying that Scorpion and Sub-Zero are the most iconic, even to those that have never played a Mortal Kombat game. Not much is known about this project, although the title would suggest Scorpion and Sub-Zero would be front and center, something fans would be foaming at the mouth for. Midway was quick to capitalize on this by ordering a sequel, which would have been Mortal Kombat: Fire & Ice. Even to this day, Shaolin Monks is easily one of the finest co-op games of its time.
MORTAL KOMBAT SHAOLIN MONKS SCORPION SERIES
The game also boasts a commendable 8.9 User Score, not only making it a highly-regarded spin-off title but one of the highest-ranked games in the series thus far. Critics were especially kind to it too, with its current score on Metacritic sitting at a very respectable 7.7 from critics.
It offered fans an entirely new experience that repurposed all the familiar Mortal Kombat tropes in fresh and exciting ways.ĭespite the resentment towards previous spin-offs, Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks was a surprise hit for Midway, selling just over a million copies during its time on store shelves. Instead of a static brawler, Shaolin Monks played like Streets of Rage on steroids, chock-full of crunchy combat, stunning fatalities, light puzzle solving and environmental hazards that could be used to disembowel your foes. Set during the events of Mortal Kombat II, the game put players in the shoes of either Liu Kang or Kung Lao as they brutalize their way across the realms to prevent the tyrannical Shao Kahn from conquering Earthrealm.