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Is Goro in MK XL? A Deep Dive into the Mortal Kombat XL Roster

Yes, Goro is indeed in Mortal Kombat XL (MK XL), but with a significant caveat. He’s not part of the base roster included with the game. Instead, Goro is a DLC (Downloadable Content) character. This means you’ll need to purchase him separately or acquire him as part of a bundle to unlock him for play.

Unlocking the Shokan Prince: Goro’s Journey to MK XL

Goro’s presence in Mortal Kombat XL represents a continuation of his role in Mortal Kombat X (MKX), the game upon which MK XL is based. Initially offered as a pre-order bonus for MKX, Goro’s availability extended beyond that initial offering. While those who pre-ordered received him automatically, other players had the option to purchase him later as standalone DLC. This model continued with MK XL, ensuring the hulking Shokan warrior remained accessible to all players, albeit for a fee.

However, it’s important to note the specific ways you can access Goro in MK XL. Let’s break down the methods:

Purchasing Goro as Standalone DLC: This is the most direct approach. You can typically find Goro available for purchase in the PlayStation Store (for PlayStation 4) or the Xbox Marketplace (for Xbox One).
Buying the Mortal Kombat XL Pack: This comprehensive pack includes not only Goro, but also all other previously released DLC characters and skins for MKX. Buying this pack offers the best value if you’re looking to expand your roster significantly.
Acquiring Mortal Kombat XL Premium Edition (potentially): While less common to find new these days, some editions of the game (particularly used or pre-owned copies) might already include the MKXL pack, thereby granting you immediate access to Goro. Check the packaging carefully to confirm.

It’s always wise to check the specific storefront for the platform you are playing on to confirm availability and pricing. DLC availability can sometimes change over time.

Why Goro Matters: His Impact on the Mortal Kombat Universe

Goro is more than just a powerful character; he’s an icon of the Mortal Kombat franchise. Introduced in the very first Mortal Kombat game, Goro served as a sub-boss, a formidable opponent standing between the player and Shang Tsung. His unique four-armed physiology and brutal fighting style immediately made him a fan favorite.

His significance extends beyond gameplay:

Lore and Story: Goro is a Prince of the Shokan, a race of powerful half-dragon, half-human warriors from the Outworld realm. His victories in the Mortal Kombat tournament helped solidify Outworld’s dominance, adding depth to the game’s narrative.
Fighting Style: Goro’s move set typically emphasizes brute strength and grappling. His powerful punches, ground pounds, and throws make him a dangerous opponent at close range. He often boasts unique command grabs that differentiate him from other characters.
Fan Favorite: Goro’s intimidating appearance and powerful fighting style have earned him a loyal following. He consistently ranks high on lists of favorite Mortal Kombat characters.

Mastering Goro in MK XL: Tips and Strategies

Playing as Goro requires a different approach than most of the MK XL roster. Here are some key tips:

Embrace the Grapple: Goro’s command grabs are his bread and butter. Practice executing them reliably, as they are a key component of his damage output.
Control the Space: Goro is most effective at close range. Use his size and reach to bully opponents into staying where you want them. Utilize ground pounds to zone and punish predictable jumps.
Vary Your Offense: Don’t rely solely on grabs. Mix in punches, kicks, and special moves to keep your opponent guessing.
Learn His Combos: Goro has some devastating combo potential. Practice linking his normals into special moves and command grabs for maximum damage.
Be Mindful of His Weaknesses: Goro’s size can make him a target for projectiles and aerial attacks. Be prepared to block and counter these strategies. Use armor moves wisely.

Related Considerations About Mortal Kombat XL

Beyond Goro, MK XL represents a definitive edition of Mortal Kombat X, offering a wealth of content for fans of the series. It addresses concerns raised about the base game and provides a more complete experience.

Complete Roster: MK XL includes all DLC characters released for MKX, including Jason Voorhees, Predator, Alien, Leatherface, Tremor, and Tanya, alongside Goro.
All Skins and Costumes: The game contains a vast array of character skins, allowing you to customize the appearance of your favorite fighters.
Gameplay Enhancements: MK XL includes balance adjustments and gameplay tweaks that improve the overall fighting experience.
Story Mode and Krypt: Experience the epic story mode and explore the Krypt, unlocking costumes, concept art, and other secrets.
Enhanced Online Play: Improved online netcode provides a more stable and enjoyable online multiplayer experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Goro in Mortal Kombat XL

If I buy a used copy of MK XL, will Goro automatically be unlocked? Not necessarily. It depends if the previous owner redeemed the MK XL Pack. If they did, Goro will be unlocked on their account, not yours. Check if the used copy includes a download code for the XL Pack.
Can I unlock Goro by playing through the story mode? No, Goro is not unlockable through the story mode. He is exclusively available as DLC.
Is Goro available in the mobile version of Mortal Kombat? The mobile version of Mortal Kombat has a separate roster and progression system. Goro is often featured in the mobile game, but his availability and method of acquisition may vary.
Does Goro have any unique Brutalities and Fatalities in MK XL? Yes, Goro has his own set of Brutalities and Fatalities, showcasing his raw power and brutality. These are unique to him and not shared with other characters.
Is Goro a difficult character to learn? Goro can be challenging to master, especially his timing for grabs. But his core gameplay is straightforward: Power and Pressure. Players who enjoy a more aggressive, in-your-face playstyle will find him easier to pick up.
What are Goro’s biggest strengths in MK XL? His biggest strengths are his damage output, command grabs, and ability to control space. He can punish opponents severely for making mistakes.
What are Goro’s biggest weaknesses in MK XL? Goro’s weaknesses include his susceptibility to projectiles, aerial attacks, and zoning strategies. He also lacks mobility compared to some other characters.
Is Goro considered a top-tier character in MK XL competitive play? Goro isn’t typically considered top-tier, but he is still a viable character in competitive play. Skilled players can utilize his strengths to overcome his weaknesses and achieve success.
Does Goro have any unique interactions with other characters in the intro dialogues? Yes, Goro has unique intro dialogues with many characters, reflecting his relationships and history within the Mortal Kombat universe.
Are there any variations of Goro in MK XL (like other characters have)? No. Goro, as a DLC character, does not have variations.
How much does Goro usually cost as standalone DLC? The price of Goro as standalone DLC can vary depending on the platform and any ongoing sales. Check the PlayStation Store or Xbox Marketplace for current pricing.
Is it worth buying the MK XL Pack just to get Goro? If you are only interested in Goro, buying the MK XL Pack might not be the most economical option. However, if you are also interested in the other DLC characters and skins, the pack offers significant value.
Does Goro appear in Mortal Kombat 11 or Mortal Kombat 1? Goro has not been included in Mortal Kombat 1, but he appeared as a DLC character in Mortal Kombat 11.
Where can I find more in-depth guides and strategies for playing as Goro? You can find guides and strategies on YouTube, fighting game forums, and websites dedicated to Mortal Kombat.
How can gaming, like playing Mortal Kombat, contribute to learning and skill development? Gaming can foster critical thinking, problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, and strategic planning. Organizations like the Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) explore the educational potential of games, highlighting their ability to engage learners and promote valuable skills. Gaming can also promote social skills and collaboration through online multiplayer experiences.

Final Thoughts: The Enduring Appeal of Goro

Goro’s inclusion in Mortal Kombat XL, even as DLC, underscores his lasting appeal as one of the franchise’s most iconic characters. While he might not be available from the start, the opportunity to unleash his four-armed fury is well worth the effort for fans who appreciate his unique blend of strength and brutality. His presence enriches the overall experience of MK XL, adding another layer of depth to an already impressive fighting game. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, Goro offers a distinct and satisfying gameplay experience that sets him apart from the rest of the roster.