Best Kharacters

We did a worst character design feature before; now let’s focus on the best. We’ll have to answer this first question before delving to the rest of the cast.

Scorpion or Sub-Zero?

While Sub-Zero has the best and iciest moves, the best hero backstory (we’re talking about MKII Sub-Zero, not the future Noob Saibot), and the most iconic fatality. However, Scorpion has the hottest moves, has a killer backstory and killer streak, and the best catchphrase to symbolize the entire franchise: Get Over Here! or Come Here!

Tough choice, to be honest. I’d pick Scorpion, but only by a tiny margin. It’s like picking between Mega Man 2 and Mega Man 3: both are hella good despite your preference. No matter what, Scorpion and Sub-Zero are your go-to picks for MK’s mascots and poster ninja childs.

With that out of the way, here are the runner-ups right behind the blue and yellow duo.

Shang Tsung

The old man who started the tournament. His awesome shapeshifting powers blew our tiny 90s minds back then. Also, his trademark 3-fireballs-in-a-row move and his standout Fu Manchu beard & moustache combo are as evil as they come. He also gets props for being portrayed well and campily by Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa

Goro

Next to the fire and ice ninjas, Goro’s stature and his four arms, not to also account the fact that he’s from a dragon race, help make the MK series stand out with its cast of mythical fighters. Honorable mention goes to centaur freak Motaro.

Johnny Cage

A Hollywood star whose repertoire is as big as his ego? Who was originally based on Jean-Claude Van Damme? Definitely more outlandish and more affable than the American stereotypes Street Fighter introduced.

Liu Kang

The best invisible air cyclist known to man, before he became the revenant he is today in MK11. Also, he can transform into the MK dragon as a fatality (and in his new Fatal Blow too). And summon an arcade machine to kill you.

Raiden

The only demigod who believes in the humans of Earthrealm. Also shoots lightning real good, helps more than harm, and shouts gibberish when doing his patented superman move. Portrayed by Christopher Lambert in the goofy-yet-fun MK movie and previously voiced by Clancy Brown in that terrible Defenders of the Realm cartoon.

Toasty Guy Dan Forden

He ain’t selectable, but he’s renowned for just popping up to say “toasty” whenever someone lands an uppercut.

Shao Kahn

He’s so badass, he was featured twice as the big boss in previous MK games. He hits really hard, brandishes a badass hammer, and taunts you after knocking you down because he can.

NEXT: Best Games In The Franchise