Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection
- August 30, 2011
- Other Ocean Interactive
A retro-fused bundle offering some of the most iconic 2D fighters ever conceived, the MK Arcade Kollection is ultimately let down by a shockingly bad online component and dodgy sound issues.
Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection is a 2011 video game developed by Other Ocean Interactive and published by Warner Bros. Games. It is a compilation of three classic 2D fighting games in the Mortal Kombat series: Mortal Kombat (1992), Mortal Kombat II (1993) and Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 (1995). The game was created after an ambitious previous incarnation, a HD remake project titled Mortal Kombat HD…
PC
PlayStation
Playstation 3
Xbox
Xbox 360
Reviews
- The game offers an authentic arcade experience with higher quality audio and a full roster of characters compared to console versions.
- Once set up, the gameplay is smooth and reminiscent of the original Mortal Kombat games, providing nostalgic fun for fans.
- The code redemption process works, allowing players to access the game despite its removal from official stores.
- The installation process is complicated and requires multiple steps, including setting up a Windows Live account, which can be frustrating for users.
- The game suffers from poor online functionality and control issues, making multiplayer experiences disappointing.
- Many users report that the game does not work properly on modern systems, with issues like being stuck on the title screen or requiring extensive troubleshooting.
- graphics9 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game remain true to the original arcade versions, which some players appreciate for authenticity, while others find them outdated and lacking enhancements. Despite the option to disable texture streaming for better performance, there are no significant improvements in graphics or gameplay, leaving the experience feeling stagnant compared to modern standards. Overall, the visuals evoke nostalgia but may disappoint those seeking a more polished presentation.
“The graphics and sound are just like the arcade machines, and it's great to sit and play for free (well... ten dollars but who cares)!”
“At least with releases like Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix, we got gameplay balances and tweaks to go with the upgraded graphics; all the while still feeling as close to the original release as possible.”
“If you have an awesome graphics card and don't like texture streaming, you'll find that in the ini files, you can disable that.”
“The graphics are the original with no touch-ups at all... on the one hand, this is good for authenticity, but on the other hand, you will want to claw your eyes out.”
“Nothing has really been improved gameplay or graphics-wise; and the most noticeable problem with the game is the slow pace at which characters (still) move in the original game.”
“Without any effort towards improving on the original titles, adding an option for online play doesn't save Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection from failing to climb out of the early 90's.”
- gameplay9 mentions
- 56 % positive mentions
- 11 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection is praised for its nostalgic appeal and faithful recreation of the original titles, providing a fun experience for fans of the series. However, many reviewers note a lack of improvements in gameplay mechanics and graphics, with some criticizing the slow character movement and poor keyboard controls. While the inclusion of online play and joystick compatibility is a positive aspect, the overall experience feels dated compared to modern standards.
“Other than that, it supports 360 controllers and the gameplay is nice.”
“I used to play these games on my SNES (minus MK3 then...), but this arcade pack beats any gaming system out there for the gameplay and fun.”
“Gameplay remains identical to their near two-decade-old counterparts, and fans of the series will feel right at home with the fluent controls.”
“Nothing has really been improved in gameplay or graphics; and the most noticeable problem with the game is the slow pace at which characters still move in the original game.”
“No improvements made to gameplay or graphics; the keyboard controls are awful, and there's no ability to switch between games without quitting first.”
“Without any effort towards improving on the original titles, adding an option for online play doesn't save Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection from failing to climb out of the early 90's.”
- stability3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -67 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's stability is generally good, with most users reporting smooth performance. However, there are minor glitches, control issues, and sound problems that detract from the experience, suggesting a lack of polish in the final product.
“Runs great without any crashes or glitches.”
“The game maintains a smooth performance even during intense moments.”
“I haven't experienced any stability issues; it runs flawlessly.”
“There are several control issues, some sound glitches, and it just doesn't feel like much effort went into the final product.”
“There are a few little glitches that will likely never get patched unless the community manages to do it, but nothing too bad.”
- music2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is praised for its higher quality audio compared to the SNES, Genesis, and Sega CD versions, providing a more authentic arcade experience. Players appreciate the inclusion of the full roster of characters and the informative loading screens that enhance gameplay. Overall, the audio quality significantly enhances the nostalgic feel for those familiar with the arcade versions.
“The actual arcade version of the games features higher quality audio for both music and voice files compared to the SNES, Genesis, and Sega CD. This makes a big difference if you have only played the console versions.”
“The full roster in all games is available instead of the console variants, which often had some fighters missing. The loading screens also provide helpful information on how to unlock fighters, moves, the blood code, and the hidden level.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is subtle and encourages players to maintain a lighthearted attitude while mastering its mechanics, suggesting that a sense of humor can enhance the overall experience. While some players may initially struggle, embracing the game's quirks can lead to a rewarding journey.
“If you are spoiled rotten on the newer Mortal Kombat games, you may not like it at first, but keep a stiff upper lip, have a sense of humor, and learn the combos and special attacks, and you shall become a new champion of Earthrealm!”
