Unmasking the Unplayable: Non-Playable Characters in Mortal Kombat 11
In Mortal Kombat 11, while the roster boasts a formidable array of fighters, several iconic characters appear but are not selectable for gameplay. These non-playable characters (NPCs) enrich the story, add depth to the environment, and sometimes even become temporary opponents. Specifically, the primary NPCs in Mortal Kombat 11 are Shinnok (appearing only as a head in a stage and in the intro), Sektor and Cyrax (featured as opponents in the story mode), and Ermac, Reptile, and Smoke (integrated into Shang Tsung’s moveset and making cameo appearances). These appearances, despite not being playable, contribute significantly to the overall Mortal Kombat experience.
Unplayable, Yet Unforgettable: The NPCs of MK11
The decision to feature certain characters as NPCs rather than playable fighters is often a complex one, influenced by factors such as storyline relevance, gameplay balance, and the desire to surprise and delight fans with unexpected cameos. While the absence of these characters from the playable roster is sometimes a point of contention among fans, their presence in the game, even in a limited capacity, is undeniably impactful.
Shinnok: The Fallen Elder God
Shinnok, the fallen Elder God, makes a chilling appearance in Mortal Kombat 11. Though not playable, his severed head serves as a grim reminder of past conflicts and the ever-present threat of evil. His presence in the story’s opening and within a specific stage adds a layer of foreboding to the narrative.
Sektor and Cyrax: Cybernetic Specters
The cybernetic Lin Kuei assassins, Sektor and Cyrax, are featured prominently in the story mode of Mortal Kombat 11. Players encounter and battle against these formidable opponents, experiencing their unique fighting styles firsthand. Despite their inclusion in the story, they are not playable characters, a decision that has left many fans yearning for their return to the roster.
Ermac, Reptile, and Smoke: Shang Tsung’s Arsenal
Ermac, Reptile, and Smoke are cleverly integrated into Shang Tsung’s moveset. The sorcerer can shapeshift and utilize their signature abilities, providing players with glimpses of these beloved characters. Additionally, they make cameo appearances in some fatalities, further solidifying their presence in the game, albeit indirectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions regarding non-playable characters and related content within Mortal Kombat 11, providing more in-depth information for avid fans:
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Why are Sektor and Cyrax not playable in Mortal Kombat 11 despite appearing in the story?
The developers, NetherRealm Studios, have not explicitly stated the reasons behind this decision. Possible explanations include gameplay balancing issues, the need to focus on other characters, or plans for future content that never materialized. Their presence as story opponents suggests they were considered but ultimately deemed unsuitable for the main roster in that iteration.
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Will Sektor and Cyrax ever be added to Mortal Kombat 11 as DLC characters?
Unfortunately, Mortal Kombat 11’s DLC support has ended, so it is highly unlikely that Sektor and Cyrax will be added as playable characters to that specific game.
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Is there any way to play as Shinnok in Mortal Kombat 11?
No. Shinnok is strictly a non-playable character in Mortal Kombat 11. He appears only as a head in a specific stage and during the intro cinematic.
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Does Shang Tsung have the full movesets of Ermac, Reptile, and Smoke when he transforms?
No, Shang Tsung’s transformations are limited to specific special moves inspired by Ermac, Reptile, and Smoke. He doesn’t have access to their complete movesets.
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Why was Reptile excluded from the main roster of Mortal Kombat 11?
The reasons for Reptile’s exclusion are unknown. NetherRealm Studios likely had specific creative and gameplay considerations that led to this decision. He appears in Rain’s fatality which has left fans hopeful for a possible future appearance.
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Are there any other characters who make cameo appearances in Mortal Kombat 11?
Yes, several characters make brief appearances in cutscenes, stages, or fatalities. These cameos add to the overall sense of the Mortal Kombat universe and provide nostalgic nods for long-time fans.
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What is the likelihood of these NPCs appearing in future Mortal Kombat games?
It is difficult to predict. The character roster changes with each installment of the franchise, and the developers make decisions based on a variety of factors. However, the popularity of characters like Sektor, Cyrax, Ermac, and Reptile suggests they have a good chance of returning in future titles.
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Are there any mods for Mortal Kombat 11 that allow players to control these NPCs?
The existence and availability of mods vary depending on the platform (PC, consoles) and the modding community. It’s possible that mods exist that allow players to control these NPCs, but it’s important to exercise caution when downloading and installing mods to avoid security risks.
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How does the storyline explain the absence of these characters from the main roster?
The storyline doesn’t always explicitly address the absence of specific characters from the playable roster. In some cases, their absence may be implied by their roles in the story or their fate in previous games.
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Are there any hints or Easter eggs related to these NPCs hidden within the game?
Mortal Kombat games are known for their Easter eggs, so it’s possible that there are hidden references or hints related to these NPCs. Exploring the game thoroughly may reveal some interesting discoveries.
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Was Goro ever a playable character in Mortal Kombat 11?
Goro was not a playable character in Mortal Kombat 11. Although his corpse appears in the story and his “Lair” stage is present in the game, he is not part of the playable roster. He was a playable character in Mortal Kombat X as a pre-order bonus.
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What is the reason behind using “K” instead of “C” in the series’ title and elsewhere?
The misspelling of “Combat” as “Kombat” was a decision made during the original game’s development due to trademarking difficulties. It has since become a signature stylistic choice for the series, adding a unique flair to the franchise.
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How did Sub-Zero become Noob Saibot?
The original Sub-Zero (Bi-Han) was killed by Scorpion. He was then resurrected by the necromancer Quan Chi as the shadowy wraith Noob Saibot. This transformation stripped him of his emotions but amplified his innate self-interest.
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Are there any LGBTQ+ characters in the Mortal Kombat universe?
Yes, Kung Jin has been confirmed as the series’ first gay character by a NetherRealm Studios employee. Though not explicitly stated in Mortal Kombat X, it was confirmed through social media, adding a welcome layer of representation to the franchise.
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Why is it so difficult to predict which characters will be playable in each Mortal Kombat game?
The decisions regarding character selection are complex and involve a variety of factors, including story relevance, gameplay balance, character popularity, and the developers’ creative vision. The developers at NetherRealm Studios want to keep the roster fresh and exciting, leading to some unpredictable choices that keep fans engaged and eager to learn more. The Games Learning Society can help in gaining the knowledge needed to predict the different characters and what their roles will be in upcoming games. You can visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
Conclusion: A Universe Rich with Characters, Playable or Not
While the absence of certain characters from the playable roster in Mortal Kombat 11 may be disappointing to some fans, their presence as NPCs enriches the game’s world and contributes to the overall Mortal Kombat experience. From the terrifying presence of Shinnok to the cybernetic menace of Sektor and Cyrax and the versatile abilities of Shang Tsung, these characters add depth and complexity to the game, reminding us of the vast and ever-evolving lore of the Mortal Kombat universe.