Is Shang Tsung’s Ending Canon? A Deep Dive into Mortal Kombat Lore
Alright, Kombatants! Let’s tackle a question that has plagued the Mortal Kombat community for decades: Is Shang Tsung’s ending canon? The short answer? It’s complicated, but leaning towards no, not strictly. However, the implications and fascinating possibilities it presents within the ever-shifting sands of Mortal Kombat’s multiverse make it a topic well worth exploring.
The Nature of Mortal Kombat Endings
To understand why Shang Tsung’s ending (or any character’s ending, for that matter) is so nebulous, we need to discuss how Mortal Kombat storylines function. Generally, each character in the game receives an individual arcade ending after defeating the final boss. These endings are often hyperbolic displays of power, humorous divergences, or outright contradictions. They represent potential futures, possible what-ifs based on that character’s victory.
In essence, while each ending offers a glimpse into a character-specific reality after their victory, only a small portion – usually the ‘official’ storyline detailed in subsequent games or media – is selected and integrated into the larger, overarching narrative. This means many character endings, including Shang Tsung’s, are relegated to non-canonical possibilities – intriguing thought experiments rather than definitive historical accounts.
Why Shang Tsung’s Ending is So Compelling
Despite its dubious canonicity, Shang Tsung’s ending consistently sparks debate. This is largely due to his inherent ambition and manipulative nature. The notion of him achieving ultimate power – conquering realms, absorbing souls, and reshaping reality to his liking – is entirely believable within the Mortal Kombat universe.
Furthermore, Shang Tsung’s endings often present compelling alternative timelines. They explore scenarios where he outsmarts the other powerful figures in the realms. His capacity for treachery and his mastery of soul manipulation make him a constant threat, and this inherent potential fuels the fascination with his possible, albeit mostly non-canon, triumphs.
The Ever-Evolving Canon of Mortal Kombat
It’s important to remember that the Mortal Kombat canon is not a rigid, unyielding structure. NetherRealm Studios has shown a willingness to retcon, reimagine, and reboot timelines, particularly with games like Mortal Kombat (2011) and Mortal Kombat 1. This fluidity means that elements from previously non-canonical storylines could, theoretically, be incorporated into the main narrative at any time.
Consider the Mortal Kombat: Armageddon event. While not a strictly “canon” game, it explored the concept of total annihilation and the need for a reset, ultimately laying the groundwork for the timeline alteration in Mortal Kombat (2011). In this sense, even non-canonical events can serve as inspiration or foreshadowing for future developments.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Mortal Kombat Canon
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the complexities of Mortal Kombat canon and Shang Tsung’s place within it:
1. What exactly does “canon” mean in the context of Mortal Kombat?
In the context of Mortal Kombat, “canon” refers to the official storyline as dictated by NetherRealm Studios. This includes events depicted in the main numbered games (e.g., Mortal Kombat 1, Mortal Kombat 11), as well as supplementary materials like comics, animated movies, and live-action adaptations (though the canonicity of the latter is often debated).
2. How does NetherRealm Studios decide which character endings become canon?
The developers at NetherRealm make strategic decisions to push forward storylines that will generate the most excitement and plot potential. There is no set formula, so it’s often based on narrative needs, character development opportunities, and fan feedback.
3. Are all character endings in Mortal Kombat non-canon?
Not necessarily. Some character endings contain elements that eventually become incorporated into the main storyline, even if the entire ending isn’t considered fully canonical. It’s more of a spectrum.
4. Has Shang Tsung ever achieved a truly “canon” victory?
In the original timeline, Shang Tsung, along with Quan Chi, did defeat Shao Kahn in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance. This established a canonical victory for the treacherous duo, albeit a short-lived one.
5. Does the Mortal Kombat 1 reboot change the canonicity of previous endings?
Absolutely. Mortal Kombat 1 presents a completely new timeline, effectively overwriting much of the established canon from previous games. While elements of past storylines might reappear, they will likely be presented in a different context.
6. What is the difference between a “timeline” and an “ending” in Mortal Kombat?
A timeline represents the overarching history and events of a particular universe within the Mortal Kombat multiverse. An ending, on the other hand, is a character-specific possibility that may or may not align with the established timeline.
7. Could Shang Tsung become the main villain in a future Mortal Kombat game?
Absolutely. Given his popularity and inherent villainous nature, Shang Tsung is always a prime candidate to return as a major antagonist. His potential to disrupt timelines and manipulate events makes him an appealing choice for NetherRealm Studios.
8. How does the Elder Gods’ influence affect the canonicity of events?
The Elder Gods are powerful beings who play a crucial role in shaping the Mortal Kombat universe. Their actions and interventions can significantly impact the canonicity of events, as they have the power to alter timelines and influence the outcomes of conflicts.
9. Are the Mortal Kombat comics considered canon?
The canonicity of the Mortal Kombat comics varies depending on the specific series. Some comics are considered to be part of the official timeline, while others are more loosely connected.
10. What role does Liu Kang play in determining canon after Mortal Kombat 11?
In Mortal Kombat 11, Liu Kang becomes the Keeper of Time, essentially granting him the power to reshape the timeline as he sees fit. Mortal Kombat 1 depicts the result of his efforts to create a more peaceful and balanced world. He has significant control over the formation of any canon moving forward.
11. Does the popularity of a character influence their chance of having a canon victory?
While NetherRealm Studios certainly considers fan feedback, popularity alone doesn’t guarantee a character a canon victory. Storytelling needs and overall narrative direction are the primary drivers.
12. Is there a definitive source for determining what is and isn’t canon in Mortal Kombat?
The most definitive source for Mortal Kombat canon is the official media released by NetherRealm Studios, including the games themselves and any officially licensed supplementary materials.
13. How do crossovers with other franchises (e.g., Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe) fit into the canon?
Crossover events are generally considered non-canon. They exist outside of the established Mortal Kombat timeline and are treated as separate, self-contained narratives.
14. Why is Shang Tsung such a compelling villain?
Shang Tsung’s allure lies in his intellect, ambition, and ruthlessness. He’s not simply a brute force antagonist; he’s a cunning strategist who manipulates and deceives his opponents to achieve his goals.
15. Can the fans influence future canon?
Yes, definitely. The Games Learning Society can have a profound impact on the future of the Mortal Kombat franchise. NetherRealm Studios actively engages with the community. Fan theories, popular requests, and general feedback are considered when crafting new storylines and character arcs. NetherRealm has a demonstrated history of listening to its community and making changes based on fan insights and opinions.
Conclusion: Embracing the Multiverse of Possibilities
Ultimately, whether or not Shang Tsung’s ending is “canon” is less important than the fascinating questions it raises about power, ambition, and the nature of reality itself. The beauty of the Mortal Kombat universe lies in its multiverse of possibilities, where anything can happen. So, while Shang Tsung may not have definitively conquered the realms (yet!), the possibility remains, and that’s what keeps us coming back for more!