Is Sub-Zero or Scorpion a Villain? Unraveling the Moral Ambiguity in Mortal Kombat

The question of whether Sub-Zero or Scorpion is a villain is deceptively complex, and the most accurate answer is: it depends. In the sprawling lore of Mortal Kombat, both characters have traversed the moral spectrum, sometimes acting as heroes, other times as outright villains, and often dwelling in the morally grey area of anti-heroes. It is crucial to distinguish between the different iterations of Sub-Zero and understand the driving forces behind Scorpion’s actions to fully grasp their alignment. The original Sub-Zero, Bi-Han, is largely portrayed as a villainous figure. The current Sub-Zero, Kuai Liang, is typically depicted as a hero.

The Shifting Sands of Morality in Mortal Kombat

The Mortal Kombat universe is not one of clear-cut heroes and villains. It is a realm of warring factions, ancient prophecies, and personal vendettas, all of which contribute to the characters’ fluid moral standing. Both Sub-Zero and Scorpion are prime examples of characters whose actions are dictated by circumstances, personal tragedies, and manipulations by external forces.

The Case of Sub-Zero: Two Brothers, Two Destinies

The name Sub-Zero has been held by two brothers: Bi-Han and Kuai Liang. This distinction is crucial when evaluating Sub-Zero’s morality.

• Bi-Han (The Original Sub-Zero/Noob Saibot): Bi-Han, the elder brother, is the original Sub-Zero. He is often portrayed as ruthless, arrogant, and morally ambiguous. His most villainous act is arguably the murder of Hanzo Hasashi (Scorpion) in the original timeline. This single action set in motion a chain of events that defined the relationship between the two characters for decades. He also serves Shang Tsung. After his death at the hands of Scorpion, Bi-Han is resurrected as Noob Saibot, a wraith serving the Netherrealm. In this form, he is unequivocally a villain, embodying pure darkness and malice.

• Kuai Liang (The Second Sub-Zero): After Bi-Han’s death, his younger brother, Kuai Liang, assumes the mantle of Sub-Zero. He is depicted as more honorable and compassionate than his predecessor. Kuai Liang seeks redemption for his brother’s actions and actively fights for the forces of good, often aligning himself with Earthrealm’s defenders. He eventually becomes a mentor and leader, steering the Lin Kuei towards a more righteous path.

Scorpion: Driven by Vengeance, Treading the Line

Scorpion (Hanzo Hasashi) is arguably the most popular character in Mortal Kombat, known for his iconic “Get over here!” catchphrase and his burning skull. His defining characteristic is his relentless pursuit of vengeance.

• The Avenger: Scorpion’s journey begins with tragedy. The murder of his clan, the Shirai Ryu, and his family at the hands of Quan Chi (posing as Sub-Zero) fuels his burning desire for revenge. This single event shapes his entire existence, driving him to make morally questionable choices. He often aligns himself with malevolent forces if it means achieving his goals, which often involves wreaking havoc.

• A Morally Neutral Force?: While Scorpion is often driven by revenge, he’s not inherently evil. He’s more of a morally neutral force manipulated by others. Quan Chi repeatedly exploits Scorpion’s rage, turning him into a weapon against Earthrealm. In some timelines, Scorpion eventually learns the truth about Quan Chi and dedicates himself to protecting the innocent and atoning for his past actions, leaning towards heroism. He’s not interested in the fates of the realms.

Key Differences & Conclusions

Ultimately, the alignment of both Sub-Zero and Scorpion hinges on specific timelines and the actions of others. Here’s a breakdown:

• Bi-Han (Original Sub-Zero): Generally portrayed as a villain, especially after becoming Noob Saibot.
• Kuai Liang (Second Sub-Zero): Typically a hero, striving for honor and redemption.
• Scorpion: Morally ambiguous, driven by revenge and often manipulated, but capable of heroism.

The complexity of these characters makes them compelling and highlights the shades of grey that exist even within a fighting game. The question isn’t simply whether they are good or bad, but why they act the way they do, and whether they ultimately choose to rise above the darkness that surrounds them. Understanding the intricate plotlines of these characters can be compared to exploring the complex dynamics found in real-world conflict. To understand the impact of games on learning and understanding, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the original Sub-Zero evil?

Yes, Bi-Han, the original Sub-Zero, is generally portrayed as a villain due to his ruthless nature, and especially after his transformation into Noob Saibot. His actions, such as killing Hanzo Hasashi, solidify his role as an antagonist.

2. Is Kuai Liang, the current Sub-Zero, a hero?

Yes, Kuai Liang, the second Sub-Zero, is typically depicted as a heroic figure. He seeks redemption for his brother’s actions and fights to protect Earthrealm.

3. Why did Sub-Zero kill Scorpion’s family?

In the original timeline, Sub-Zero (Bi-Han) did not kill Scorpion’s family. It was Quan Chi disguised as Sub-Zero who committed this act to manipulate Scorpion into becoming his undead warrior.

4. Is Scorpion inherently evil?

No, Scorpion is not inherently evil. He is driven by vengeance and often manipulated by others, but he is capable of acting heroically and pursuing justice once he learns the truth.

5. What makes Scorpion a morally neutral character?

Scorpion’s morality is complex because his primary motivation is revenge. He will align himself with anyone who can help him achieve his goals, regardless of their alignment, making him a morally flexible character. He has no interest in the fates of the realms.

6. Are Sub-Zero and Scorpion always enemies?

Not always. While they have a deep-seated rivalry rooted in the past, there have been timelines where they form alliances or even show respect for one another, especially with Kuai Liang as Sub-Zero. In some instances, they’re depicted as brothers.

7. Who is Noob Saibot, and what is his connection to Sub-Zero?

Noob Saibot is the resurrected form of Bi-Han, the original Sub-Zero. After being killed by Scorpion, he was resurrected in the Netherrealm and became a shadow warrior serving evil forces.

8. Which Sub-Zero is considered the stronger fighter?

This is debatable and depends on the specific game or storyline. Both Bi-Han and Kuai Liang possess formidable skills. Some argue that Bi-Han’s ruthlessness gives him an edge, while others believe Kuai Liang’s discipline and mastery of ice make him superior.

9. How does Quan Chi manipulate Scorpion?

Quan Chi exploits Scorpion’s desire for revenge. By orchestrating the death of Scorpion’s family and clan and framing Sub-Zero, Quan Chi turns Scorpion into a vengeful specter and uses him as a weapon.

10. In what timeline are Sub-Zero and Scorpion brothers?

In the Mortal Kombat 1 timeline, Scorpion (Kuai Liang) and Sub-Zero (Bi-Han) are reimagined as brothers, creating a completely new dynamic between the characters.

11. Is Sub-Zero’s mask purely for aesthetic reasons?

While it adds to his mystique, Sub-Zero’s mask often symbolizes more. In some interpretations, it represents his attempt to conceal his pain, guilt, or identity, depending on which Sub-Zero is being represented.

12. Can Scorpion ever find peace?

In some storylines, Scorpion achieves a degree of peace after learning the truth about his family’s murder and dedicating himself to protecting others from similar tragedies. His journey is often about finding balance between vengeance and justice.

13. What is the Lin Kuei, and what role does it play in Sub-Zero’s story?

The Lin Kuei is a Chinese clan of assassins and warriors. Both Bi-Han and Kuai Liang are members. The clan’s traditions, goals, and internal conflicts significantly influence Sub-Zero’s actions and moral compass.

14. Does Sub-Zero ever become a superhero?

In one of Sub-Zero’s endings, inspired by Batman, Kuai Liang leaves the Lin Kuei and becomes a hero, but is later hunted by the Lin Kuei for deserting them.

15. Why did Scorpion turn evil?

Scorpion did not “turn evil.” He is rather a morally neutral character as his own personal goals matter more to him than things like the fates of the realms.