Mortal Kombat 1: When Can You Play? A Complete Guide to Launch Times and Early Access

The burning question on every Mortal Kombat fan’s mind is: when can I finally play Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1)? The answer depends on which edition you purchased and your time zone.

• Standard Edition: Officially launches September 19, 2023, and unlocks at midnight in your local time zone.

• Premium and Kollector’s Editions: Grants early access starting September 14, 2023, at 10 a.m. PDT / 1 p.m. EDT / 6 p.m. BST.

This means if you pre-ordered the Premium or Kollector’s Edition, you get a five-day head start! For those waiting for the standard edition, patience is key; your time will come on the 19th!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mortal Kombat 1 Release Times

1. I pre-ordered the Premium Edition. What time can I start playing MK1?

If you’re among the privileged few who pre-ordered the Premium Edition or Kollector’s Edition, you gain access to MK1’s early access period starting on September 14th at 10:00 AM PDT. This translates to 1:00 PM EDT and 6:00 PM BST. So, mark your calendars and prepare to FINISH HIM! well before the official launch.

2. What happens if I’m in a different time zone? How does the Sept. 19th release date affect me?

The official release date for the Standard Edition is September 19, 2023. The game will unlock at midnight in your local time zone. Therefore, if you’re in a time zone ahead of PDT, you’ll technically get to play it “earlier” relative to those on the West Coast of the United States.

3. Can I play MK1 early with the Standard Edition?

Unfortunately, no. The ability to play MK1 early is exclusively tied to purchasing the Premium Edition or the Kollector’s Edition. The Standard Edition will be playable starting on the official launch date, September 19th.

4. What are the different editions of Mortal Kombat 1, and what do they include?

MK1 comes in three distinct editions, each with its own price point and content:

• Standard Edition ($69.99): Includes the base game.

• Premium Edition ($109.99): Includes the base game, the Kombat Pack (featuring additional characters and Kameo Fighters), and early access starting September 14th.

• Kollector’s Edition ($249.99): Includes everything in the Premium Edition, plus a special collectible statue, steel case, and in-game content.

5. How do I access the MK1 Beta? Is it still available?

The MK1 Beta was a limited-time event that ran from August 18th to August 21st. Access was granted primarily to those who pre-ordered the game on PlayStation 5. The beta period has concluded, and you’ll need to wait for the full game release to play.

6. What platforms will Mortal Kombat 1 be available on?

Mortal Kombat 1 is launching on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC (via Steam and Epic Games Store).

7. Will Mortal Kombat 1 have crossplay (Krossplay)?

As of launch, Mortal Kombat 1 does not feature cross-platform play. While the Steam version was initially advertised with crossplay, this feature was removed, and NetherRealm Studios has confirmed its absence at launch. Whether it will be added in the future remains to be seen.

8. How long is the Mortal Kombat 1 story mode?

The story mode in MK1 is estimated to be between 6 and 10 hours long. This is consistent with the length of story modes in previous Mortal Kombat games. The captivating narrative promises twists, turns, and epic battles.

9. How do I access downloadable content (DLC) in MK1?

Additional content for Mortal Kombat 1 doesn’t require a separate DLC file download. The game automatically verifies your add-on entitlements upon launching. So, if you’ve purchased the Kombat Pack or other DLC, it should be available in-game once you start playing.

10. What is the Kombat Pack?

The Kombat Pack is a DLC offering that includes additional playable characters and Kameo Fighters. It’s part of the Premium Edition and Kollector’s Edition of Mortal Kombat 1 and can also be purchased separately.

11. Who are the new and returning characters in Mortal Kombat 1?

Mortal Kombat 1 features a mix of returning fan favorites and some characters with altered lore. Expect to see iconic fighters like Liu Kang, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Raiden, Kitana, and Mileena. Additionally, characters like Smoke have undergone changes to their backstories, adding new depth to the Mortal Kombat universe.

12. Is Mortal Kombat 1 kid-friendly?

Mortal Kombat games are generally not considered kid-friendly due to their violent content and graphic fatalities. Mortal Kombat 1 is expected to be rated M for Mature by the ESRB, meaning it is intended for audiences aged 17 and older.

13. How much does Mortal Kombat 1 cost?

The cost varies depending on the edition:

• Standard Edition: $69.99
• Premium Edition: $109.99
• Kollector’s Edition: $249.99

14. Where can I redeem my Mortal Kombat 1 Beta code?

Since the Beta has finished, you cannot redeem any codes for it. The code redemption process would have been at Account.WBGames.com/Betas, where you would need to log in to or create a WB Games Account.

15. Can I get a refund if I bought the Premium Edition but can’t play early?

You should contact the retailer where you purchased your edition from. Whether or not you can get a refund depends on the retailers refund policies.

Why Is This Launch So Important?

The launch of Mortal Kombat 1 is not just another game release; it’s a cultural event. The Mortal Kombat franchise has been a staple in the gaming community for decades, known for its intricate lore, memorable characters, and, of course, its over-the-top violence. Mortal Kombat 1 represents a new chapter, promising a fresh take on the classic formula while retaining the elements that made the series so beloved. The anticipation surrounding its release underscores the enduring appeal of fighting games and the impact they have on popular culture. Games are not just entertainment but also a source of community and shared experience, as explored by researchers at the Games Learning Society, highlighting the educational and social aspects of gaming. You can learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Hopefully, this comprehensive guide has answered all your questions about when you can play Mortal Kombat 1. Get ready to FINISH HIM! and dive into the latest installment of this legendary fighting game franchise!