Mortal Kombat 1revolutionized theMKcanon with Fire God Liu Kang’s new era, completely revising the origins of some kombatants, while tweaking others with shades of their past selves. From lesser-known names such as Tanya and Havik, to franchise pillars like Scorpion and Raiden, developer NetherRealm Studios exercised some remarkable creativity with the new origins forMortal Kombat 1’s roster. This innovation has extended toMK1’s DLC fighters as well, with Quan Chi and Ermac differing from their previous depictions, and now the forthcoming Takeda receiving an altered backstory of his own.
Takeda is the last fighter inMK1’s first Kombat Pack, and many fans have wondered how he’ll figure into this newMKtimeline. Quan Chi and Ermac’s stories were at least explored in the game’s campaign, but save for a brief appearance duringMK1’s conclusion, Takeda did not play a significant role. Now that he’s been revealed, a bio for this version of Takeda provides crucial context for his place in the currentMKcanon. Similar to his fellow kombatants, the whip-wielding fighter shares some similarities with his previous self, but aspects of his background have changed to suitMK1’s storytelling.
How Takeda Has Changed From MKX to MK1
First playable inMortal Kombat X, Takeda was introduced as one-fourth ofthe Kombat Kids, characters who are the children ofMKicons. As the son of Kenshi and a member of Scorpion’s Shirai Ryu clan, Takeda possessed many of the same ninja-like abilities as his mentors. His bladed whips are the primary tool in his arsenal, in addition to plasma swords and some telekinetic abilities akin to his father’s.
Out ofMKX’s new fighters, Takeda proved to be one of its more popular additions due to his moveset and endearing, wisecracking nature. Though he wasn’t playable inMK11, his distinction as the sole Kombat Kid inMK1’s first Kombat Pack is an indication of Takeda’s lasting popularity.
Takeda’s Role in Mortal Kombat 1
When it comes to his depiction inMK1, Takeda seems to share traits with his past self while fitting better intoFire God Liu Kang’s new era. In hisMK1bio, Takeda is described as a member of the Yakuza and cousin to Kenshi. Whereas Kenshi leaves the Yakuza, however, Takeda takes pride in its exploits and attempts to thwart Kenshi’s plan to bring the organization down. After being mortally wounded, Kenshi takes Takeda to the Shirai Ryu where the latter comes to realize the error of his ways. He then swears to join his cousin in dismantling Earthrealm’s crime syndicates, training with Scorpion’s newly formed clan in the process.
Though he wasn’t playable inMK11, his distinction as the sole Kombat Kid inMK1’s first Kombat Pack is an indication of Takeda’s lasting popularity.
This new bio gives Takeda an added layer of complexity compared to his previous depiction, presenting him as a sort of foil to Kenshi. Shifting him from the son to a cousin of the swordsman also keeps any familial drama intact that might otherwise be lost due to Kenshi’s younger age. Whether Takeda shares a different relationship with Scorpion inMK1compared toMKXremains to be seen, but his commitment to the clan could prove crucial in anyfuture conflict with Sub-Zero’s Lin Kuei clan.
Takeda is a relative newcomer to theMKfranchise, but his inclusion inMK1’s Kombat Pack is a sign that he’s made a significant impact in a short amount of time. His moveset alone makes him one ofMK’s more dynamic fighters, and his connection to franchise staples like Kenshi and Scorpion adds even greater interest. Though he didn’t play a role inMK1’s story, Takeda’s new origin could play a major factor in any DLC orsequel plans NetherRealm may have in store.
Mortal Kombat 1
WHERE TO PLAY
Welcome to a new era of Kombat. NetherRealm Studios ushers in a new era of the iconic fighting franchise with a total reset that changes the entire world as we know it. Following the thrilling climax of Mortal Kombat 11, the all-powerful Fire God Liu Kang has created a New Era in the hope of bringing peace to Earthrealm and beyond. Through the series' most cinematic story mode yet, you’ll be reintroduced to a cast of legendary warriors as you’ve never seen them before. Expect twists on classic friendships and rivalries, as well as new backstories that will change everything you think you know about your favorite Kombatants. Discover a host of new offline and online game modes as you master a revitalized fighting system that boasts bone-crunching Fatal Blows, defensive Breakers and the most creatively vicious Fatalities yet.
