Overview
This guide covers the essential control layout for Mortal Kombat 1 across platforms and explains key gameplay mechanics, including advanced techniques to improve performance in matches.
Basic Controls Overview
- Each platform has specific buttons for Front/Back Punch and Kick, Grab, Block/Empower, Kameo, and Movement.
- Controls can be remapped and input sensitivity adjusted in the Controller Settings menu.
Advanced Mechanics & Techniques
- Dash Cancels: Double-tap forward/back to dash and use down to cancel or attack to end dash animation for quick approaches.
- Up Block: While blocking, press Up to perform a superior block against jump-ins and overheads, enabling faster recovery and punishes.
- Flawless Block: Block right before impact to avoid chip damage and deny opponents meter gain, especially effective against projectiles.
- Combo Breaker: Hold Block + Forward while being hit (requires 3 bars and available Kameo) to interrupt combos, including Fatal Blows.
- Kameo Fighters: Selected at character screen, used as assists mid-combo or defensively with a meter that recharges quickly.
- Fatal Blow: Powerful cinematic attack available below 30% health, triggered with L2+R2 (or equivalents), indicated under health bar.
- Super Meter: Three-bar gauge for enhanced moves and Combo Breakers, refilled through special moves, damage, or blocked specials; manage usage strategically.
- Hit Confirming: Confirm successful hits before committing to risky combos; tutorial includes practice section.
- Mix Up Defense: Vary get-up techniques—delay, Kameo assist (Left+R1), or armored move—to avoid opponent’s predictions; jumping avoids certain attacks when rising.
Recommendations / Advice
- Practice hit confirming to extend combos safely.
- Regularly vary defensive tactics to remain unpredictable.
- Use Kameo gauge proactively as it recharges quickly; don’t hesitate to use assists.
- Conserve super meter for crucial moments like Combo Breakers or empowered moves.