Is Mortal Kombat based on China?

Is Mortal Kombat Based on China?

Mortal Kombat is a popular video game franchise known for its bloody fighting moves and intricate plotline. Created by Ed Boon and John Tobias, the game draws inspiration from various cultures, including Chinese martial arts and mythology. In this article, we will delve into the Chinese influence on Mortal Kombat, exploring its connection to Chinese culture, folklore, and mythology.

Inspiration from Chinese Mythology and Folklore

One of the most striking features of Mortal Kombat is its Chinese-inspired setting and characters. Tobias, the creator of the game, drew inspiration from Chinese mythology and folklore to create the game’s fantastical world. The game’s initial premise revolves around a mystical realm, called Earthrealm, where humanity exists alongside supernatural creatures.

Some notable Chinese mythological influences in Mortal Kombat include:

• Dragons and demons: Both dragons and demons appear prominently in Mortal Kombat’s world, often as powerful entities with control over the forces of good and evil. This mirrors the prominent role of dragons and demons in Chinese mythology.

• Netherrealm: The Netherrealm is a supernatural realm in the game where spirits of the dead reside. This concept is reminiscent of Chinese Buddhism’s concept of the "afterlife," where souls migrate to the realm of Hungry Ghosts, Beasts, and the Dead.

• Qinglo’s influence: In the game’s lore, the mystical island of Qinglo is said to have influenced the creation of the Mortal Kombat tournament. Qinglo’s legend echoes that of the ancient Chinese Taoist alchemist, Qin Qin, who is said to have invented alchemy and achieved immortality.

Asian-inspired Characters and Fights

The Mortal Kombat game also features several Asian-inspired characters, such as Sub-Zero and Scorpion. These characters’ stories are woven into the game’s plot, incorporating Chinese mythology and folklore.

• Sub-Zero: As the half-human, half-Oni assassin, Sub-Zero is one of the most iconic characters in the series. His origins are deeply rooted in Chinese folklore, where the concept of demonic descent and bloodlines play a significant role.
• Scorpion: As the ninja specter who fights to avenge his own death, Scorpion’s character draws inspiration from Japanese mythology. However, his soul- retrieval process, where he fights to free his trapped spirit, mirrors the concept of Chinese ghost-catching techniques.

Chinese Inclusivity in Game Design

Throughout its iterations, Mortal Kombat has maintained a diverse cast of characters from various ethnic backgrounds, including Asian descent. The game’s developers have consulted with experts on Chinese culture and language to ensure a high level of accuracy in depicting these characters and their stories.

In summary, Mortal Kombat draws inspiration from Chinese mythology and folklore, weaving it into its world, characters, and stories. While the game’s plotline may be fictional, the creative influence from Chinese culture is evident and profound.

Timeline of Key Events and Milestones

• 1992: The first Mortal Kombat game is released, introducing its supernatural realm and Chinese-inspired characters.
• 1993: Mortal Kombat 2 adds more Asian characters and increases its emphasis on Chinese folklore and mythology.
• 1997: Mortal Kombat 4 incorporates more direct Chinese references, such as the mystical island of Qinglo and the assassin clan of Lin Kuei.

Table: Key Events and Milestones in Mortal Kombat

By examining the various elements within the Mortal Kombat franchise, we can conclude that the game’s creators, Ed Boon and John Tobias, have been inspired by Chinese mythology and folklore from its inception. This influence can be seen in the game’s world-building, characters, and plotlines, making Mortal Kombat a unique blend of eastern and western cultures.