Summary
One of the coolest characters inMortal Kombat 1was sorely underused, and deserves a more prominent role in the sequel. Of course, with a cast as big asMortal Kombat 1’s offerings, not every character will get the same amount of spotlight. However, this can easily lead to a character with a lot of potential not getting the chance to shine. In at least one case, this ended up coming true with one of the roster’s more distinctive members. While this was disappointing to see, it is something that could easily be rectified inMortal Kombat 2.
When choosing thecast ofMortal Kombat 1, the developers included many of the most iconic fighters from the franchise, such as Scorpion, Mileena, and Johnny Cage. At the same time, there were a few characters that came as more of a surprise, such as Havok and Li Mei. This mix worked to the games benefit, providing plenty of familiar fighters while including a few more interesting choices to add more variety, even before the guest characters trickled in from the DLC. Even though a few memorable characters missed the main roster,Mortal Kombat 1still has an admirable selection of fighters to choose from.
Mortal Kombat 1 Could Have Done More with Ashrah
Ashrah Played a Small Role in Mortal Kombat 1’s Story
Out of the playable characters,Ashrah inMortal Kombat 1does not play as big of a role as she could have. She has one of the more interesting fighting styles, wielding her enchanted sword Kris, and the ability to transition between light and dark stances mid-fight. In addition, she has an interesting backstory of being a demon seeking to restore her soul with Kris' power. However, despite how interesting she is, Ashrah is one of the least prominent heroes in the campaign. She’s around enough to be established as an ally, but her overall role in the plot isn’t particularly large.
Ashrah Has Plenty of Stories Primed For the Sequel
The notable thing about Ashrah is thatMortal Kombat 2can use her effectivelythanks to all of the story breadcrumbs surrounding her. Her ending features her training with the Shaolin monks, giving her a greater connection to multiple main characters. In addition, her enmity with Quan Chi, desire to save Sareena, and possible relationship with Reptile mean that Ashrah has a lot going on. There are a myriad of ways thatMortal Kombat 2could give Ashrah a bigger role thanks to these subplots. Ashrah has more possible stories than most characters, andMortal Kombat 2can easily capitalize on that.
Mortal Kombat 2 Can Make Ashrah Into a Bigger Character
Ashrah would benefit more from a bigger story role in the sequel than most. As along-missing character inMortal Kombat,Mortal Kombat 1was Ashrah’s chance to re-establish herself. While she does have one of the game’s most distinctive fighting styles, her role in the campaign was minor at best. It would be disappointing if she were to disappear again after taking so long to return, especially since she’s such a unique character in the series. Ashrah deserves another appearance in the next game, and underscoring that with a bigger role inMortal Kombat 2could solidify her as a series icon.
Ashrah has more possible stories than most characters, andMortal Kombat 2can easily capitalize on that.
Bringing back Ashrah forMortal Kombat 1was a good move, but some opportunities were still missed. Thestory ofMortal Kombat 2can easily find a place for Ashrah, since she seems perfectly poised to take on a bigger role. Even one of the plot threads that she has could be used to give her a more important part in the next game. She’s an interesting character, and one that deserves more appreciation.Mortal Kombat 2’s story can give Ashrah the recognition that she deserves in the series.
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.
