Who Killed Raiden?
Raiden, the God of Thunder and protector of Earthrealm, has been a central character in the Mortal Kombat series since its inception. However, in various iterations of the franchise, Raiden’s fate has been a topic of much debate. In this article, we will delve into the different instances where Raiden’s life has been taken, and who was responsible for his demise.
Mortal Kombat 1: Shao Kahn
In the original Mortal Kombat game, Raiden’s story arc culminates in a final showdown with Shao Kahn, the main antagonist of the game. Shao Kahn emerges victorious, killing Raiden with a brutal uppercut. This event marks a significant turning point in the Mortal Kombat storyline, as Raiden’s death sets the stage for the events of Mortal Kombat 2.
Mortal Kombat 2: Reincarnation
In Mortal Kombat 2, Raiden is resurrected as a god, taking on a new role as the protector of Earthrealm. Raiden’s reincarnation is a result of his own actions, as he is able to transcend his mortal form and become a god once more. This storyline marks a significant shift in Raiden’s character, as he becomes a more powerful and confident hero.
Mortal Kombat Trilogy: Shinnok
In Mortal Kombat Trilogy, Raiden’s story takes a dark turn as he is possessed by the spirit of Shinnok, the Elder God. Shinnok’s influence causes Raiden to become corrupted, leading to a battle between the two characters. Ultimately, Raiden is able to resist Shinnok’s influence and reclaim his godly powers.
Mortal Kombat 4: Onaga
In Mortal Kombat 4, Raiden’s storyline takes a dramatic turn as he is killed by Onaga, the Dragon King. Onaga’s victory is short-lived, as Raiden’s soul is able to transcend his physical form and continue to fight for Earthrealm.
Mortal Kombat: Deception: Taven
In Mortal Kombat: Deception, Raiden’s storyline is significantly altered as he is killed by Taven, the chosen one. Taven’s motivations for killing Raiden are unclear, but it is implied that he is acting on behalf of the Elder Gods.
Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe: Dark Raiden
In Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe, Raiden’s storyline takes a dark turn as he is transformed into a cyborg by the forces of Outworld. As Dark Raiden, he becomes a formidable opponent, but ultimately falls to the combined efforts of the heroes of Earthrealm.
Metal Gear Solid 2: Raiden’s Fate
In Metal Gear Solid 2, Raiden’s storyline takes a dramatic turn as he is killed by Vamp, a member of the Philanthropy group. Raiden’s death is a result of his own actions, as he is unable to escape the clutches of Vamp.
Conclusion
Raiden’s fate has been a topic of much debate throughout the Mortal Kombat series. From his original death at the hands of Shao Kahn to his numerous resurrections and reincarnations, Raiden’s story has been marked by drama and intrigue. Ultimately, Raiden’s ability to transcend his mortal form and continue to fight for Earthrealm has made him a beloved character in the Mortal Kombat franchise.
Key Takeaways
- Raiden has been killed by various characters throughout the Mortal Kombat series, including Shao Kahn, Onaga, Taven, and Dark Raiden.
- Raiden’s death has often been a result of his own actions, as he is able to transcend his mortal form and continue to fight for Earthrealm.
- Raiden’s storyline has been marked by drama and intrigue, making him a beloved character in the Mortal Kombat franchise.
Table: Raiden’s Fates
| Game | Who Killed Raiden? | Reason for Death |
|---|---|---|
| Mortal Kombat 1 | Shao Kahn | Upper cut |
| Mortal Kombat 2 | N/A | Reincarnation |
| Mortal Kombat Trilogy | Shinnok | Possession |
| Mortal Kombat 4 | Onaga | Physical form destroyed |
| Mortal Kombat: Deception | Taven | Unknown motivations |
| Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe | Dark Raiden | Cyborg form destroyed |
| Metal Gear Solid 2 | Vamp | Physical form destroyed |
Note: The table only includes the most significant instances of Raiden’s death and does not include every instance of his death throughout the Mortal Kombat series.