NetherRealm Studios Ends Support for Mortal Kombat 1: What It Means for Fans and the Future of the Series

In the middle of the month, NetherRealm Studios released the complete edition of Mortal Kombat 1, prompting fans to suspect that the game's post-launch development had concluded. Despite earlier promises to make MK1 “the longest-supported installment in the series,” the studio remained silent — until a week and a half later, when it officially confirmed that Mortal Kombat 1 will no longer receive new content.

“We are hearing players’ requests for continued game support of Mortal Kombat 1, and, while we will continue to support Mortal Kombat 1 through balance adjustments and fixes, there will not be additional DLC characters or story chapters released from this point on.,” the studio said in a statement.

Thus, NetherRealm officially wraps up active development for MK1 less than a year after its release.

Shifting Priorities: What Is NetherRealm Working on Next?

The main reason behind this decision is the studio’s need to focus on its next project. While nothing has been officially announced yet, sources suggest that NetherRealm may be working on Injustice 3, the next installment in the popular DC fighting game series.

“Our team at NetherRealm needs to focus on our next project to make it the best it can possibly be,” the developers explained.

With MK1 no longer receiving major updates, fans are now turning their attention to potential announcements from the studio, which may come in the near future.

Financial Factors: Mortal Kombat 1 Falls Short of Expectations

One likely factor behind the decision was Mortal Kombat 1’s underwhelming commercial performance. As of January this year, the game had sold around 5 million copies — roughly three times fewer than its predecessor, Mortal Kombat 11.

Meanwhile, the Mortal Kombat franchise has surpassed 100 million total copies sold, with MK11 remaining the most successful entry in terms of both sales and post-launch support. Notably, MK11 continued to receive content for 19 months, compared to just 12 months for MK1.

This discrepancy may stem not only from market conditions but also from community feedback, with players criticizing MK1’s limited content, high prices for in-game items, and lack of innovation in its story campaign.

Fan Reactions and Impact on the Franchise

The announcement that NetherRealm is ending support for MK1 has sparked disappointment and criticism among fans. Many feel that the studio prematurely abandoned the game, especially after promising long-term support. On social media, players are voicing frustration over what they perceive as an incomplete and short-lived experience.

Some analysts warn that this decision may affect player trust in NetherRealm’s future titles. If fans fear that new games will be similarly short-lived, it could impact pre-orders and community engagement moving forward.

What’s Next: Expectations and Outlook

Despite the end of MK1’s content cycle, interest in the Mortal Kombat franchise remains strong. The rumored development of Injustice 3 or another major project could reignite excitement among longtime fighting game fans and new players alike.

It's worth noting that technical and balance updates for MK1 will continue, so the game isn't being completely abandoned. However, fans hoping for new characters or story chapters will need to set those expectations aside.

Conclusion

Mortal Kombat 1 has officially reached the end of its development, despite initial promises of extended support. The game failed to match the success of its predecessor, and NetherRealm Studios is now shifting its focus to the next big project. While the future of the series remains uncertain, fans are eager to see what’s next. For now, MK1 exits the spotlight, making way for the next chapter in NetherRealm’s legacy.