Mortal Kombat 11 is coming to Nintendo Switch, the first time a Mortal Kombat game has appeared on a Nintendo console since 2007's Mortal Kombat Armageddon. While it is exciting to see NetherRealm's latest making the jump to Nintendo's handheld/console hybrid, but is doing so at a cost.
In an interview with GameRevolution, Mortal Kombat 11 producer Trevor Traub explained there had to be minor alterations to the Switch version's graphics to ensure smooth gameplay. "There are special geometry reductions that happen to make it work on the Switch," he said in the interview. "The end product is actually really fantastic. We're actually not developing it in house; it's being developed by Shiver Studios. They're developing it at the same time as us so it's sort of a co-development. There is no lead SKU."
While it may be disappointing to some, this makes sense. The Switch isn't as powerful as the PS4 or Xbox One. There needed to be a sacrifice on the Switch between game speed and graphics, and the developers chose speed. This ensures Mortal Kombat 11 will run as smoothly on the Switch as it does other consoles, even if it doesn't look as sharp.
Despite the minor alterations, Traub says he's still a fan of the product. "I actually really like the Switch build. I like the Joy-Con controller more than I thought," he said. "We're trying to reach as many people as we possibly can."
In other Mortal Kombat 11 news, there are eight fighters currently confirmed for the roster, with one being a pre-order bonus. The roster as of right now includes:
- Baraka
- Sonya Blade
- Skarlet
- Sub-Zero
- Raiden
- Scorpion
- Geras
- Shao Kahn
Shao Kahn is the pre-order exclusive character, while Geras is a new fighter to the franchise. Geras uses his time-manipulation abilities to attack opponents. Geras also has control of sand, and can use it in different attacks.
More fighters will be confirmed leading up to the release of Mortal Kombat 11. Based off the picture above from the recent Mortal Kombal 11 live stream reveal, there will be 25 fighters included at launch. Shao Kahn is assumed to not be included in that 25, as his picture is not seen on the roster page.
Based on the live stream, we can also assume Kabal, Liu Kang, Kronika and Kung Lao will be announced for the roster soon. All four characters made appearances during the stream, with Kabal receiving the most obvious hint at a future announcement.
Mortal Kombat 11 releases for PS4, Xbox One, Switch and PC on April 23.
So what do you think? Are you excited to see the full Mortal Kombat 11 roster? Will you play Mortal Kombat 11 on your Switch, or a different platform? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Uncommon Knowledge
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
