The first batch of images from Mortal Kombat 2 has been released, revealing the first look at new characters joining the sequel. The Mortal Kombat franchise originated as a fighting-based video game series whose first installment was put out in 1992. It was first adapted into a movie in 1995, with a sequel in 1997. Then, in 2021, a new film adaptation was released and directed by Simon McQuoid, who is returning to helm Mortal Kombat II. The second film features a leading cast including Karl Urban, Hiroyuki Sanada, Martyn Ford, Lewis Tan, Adeline Rudolph, and Tati Gabrielle.

Via EW, the images reveal a new look at Urban’s Johnny Cage as well as the designs of Shao Kahn (Ford) and Kitana (Rudolph). Additionally, the images include a look at the return of Scorpion, played by Sanada. Urban looks ready to fight in his image, posed with one fist ready to punch and the other looking to block. Rudolph holds out Kitana’s bladed fans, wielded in both her hands. Shao Kahn has red eyes and a shadowy figure. Check out the images below:

What This Means For Mortal Kombat II

The Costumes Designs Shift Some Elements Of The Games

In addition to the image, the Mortal Kombat II team also spoke about what the sequel will offer. The game’s co-creator Ed Boon noted that Urban is “adding his own flair to” his Johnny Cage role, stepping out from the exact way that he is portrayed in the franchise. In terms of physical appearance, the images show Urban in a fairly classic Johnny Cage fighting stance. He wears a jacket that is not entirely dissimilar from previous character designs, making his physical resemblance similar even if his acting will differ from the games.

As for the other characters, the movie takes some departures from the original game content. Shao Kahn sports a similar headpiece as he does in the game, for example, but he appears to be wearing more full-body armor than his video game counterpart. Kitana’s bladed steel fans are carried over from the game, but her outfit is more modest than some versions of the character in the video games.

Our Take On The Mortal Kombat Images

Karl Urban’s Performance Is An Intriguing Element Of This Update

Coupled with the news about Urban’s character changes, it seems that Mortal Kombat II will provide an interesting blend of new and familiar elements. Similarly to the 2021 film, it will not copy every character design exactly as it switches to live-action, but will still have enough overlap for the video game adaptation to be familiar to fans. If Urban provides as much of a new performance as Boon promises, Johnny Cage could be an especially appealing element of the anticipated sequel.

Source: EW