☠ Special Moves and Fatalities
Each fighter in Mortal Kombat comes with a unique set of special moves and a powerful finishing technique known as a Fatality. These signature attacks are a major part of the game's identity and appeal.
Notes:
- You can use WASD instead of when playing on PC.
- The + symbol means the buttons should be pressed at the same time.
- means Forward, means Back - assuming your character is on the left side of the screen.
Below you'll find a complete list of special moves and Fatalities for every playable character in the SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive version.
Johnny Cage
Johnny Cage is a Hollywood action star with real martial arts skills. He uses flashy moves and quick strikes to outshine his opponents.
- Shadow Kick: K
- Energy Ball: J
- Groin Punch: +L
- Fatality (Close): J
Kano
Kano is a ruthless mercenary and leader of the Black Dragon clan. He fights dirty, using quick knife throws and his signature Cannonball to overwhelm enemies.
- Throw knife: HoldLShiftpress
- Cannonball: HoldLShiftpressreleaseLShift
- Fatality (Close): J
Sub-Zero
Sub-Zero is a cold-blooded warrior from the Lin Kuei clan. He uses ice-based attacks to freeze opponents in place and finish them with precision.
- Freeze Ball: J
- Slide: +K+L
- Fatality (close): J
Sonya
Sonya is a skilled Special Forces operative who combines agility and strength. Her energy-based attacks and acrobatic moves make her a formidable and fast-paced fighter.
- Energy Rings: JJ
- Leg Throw: +J+K
- Flying Punch: J
- Fatality (Any distance): LShift
Rayden
Rayden is the God of Thunder, wielding lightning and teleportation to outmaneuver and overwhelm his opponents with divine power.
- Shoot lightning: J
- Flying Thunder God:
- Teleport:
- Fatality (Close): J
Liu Kang
Liu Kang is a Shaolin monk and champion of Earthrealm. He uses fast strikes and fireballs, relying on speed and precision to defeat his enemies.
- Fireball: J
- Super Kick: L
- Fatality (Any distance):
Scorpion
Scorpion is a vengeful specter from the Netherrealm. He uses his iconic spear to pull enemies in and follows up with fiery, unpredictable attacks.
- Hand Spear: J
- Teleport Punch: J
- Fatality (Sweep Distance):
🗝️ Cheats and Secrets
Blood Mode
Unlock the original arcade-style blood and gore that was hidden by default in the SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive version. From the Code of Honor screen, press
JKJLJKK
If done correctly, the text will turn red and you'll hear Scorpion shout "Get over here!"
Cheat Mode
On the screen where you choose to start the game or change options, press
J
If entered correctly, a new option called Cheat Enabled will appear in the menu. At the bottom of the Cheat Mode screen, you'll find a section with several toggles called "flags" - these let you adjust hidden gameplay elements. Here's what each one does:
- FLAG 0: One hit kills CPU
- FLAG 1: One hit kills you
- FLAG 2: Objects fly across the moon on the Pit stage
- FLAG 3: A man's head flies across the moon on the Pit stage
- FLAG 4: Reptile's clues appear between fights
- FLAG 5: Infinite credits
- FLAG 6: CPU uses Fatalities to finish you
- FLAG 7: Entire tournament takes place on the same stage
🏟️ Stages
Mortal Kombat on SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive features six unique stages, each with its own atmosphere and visual design. While stages don't affect gameplay mechanics, they add mood, intensity, and iconic style to every fight.
- The Courtyard - A peaceful temple courtyard where rows of monks observe the fight in silence. It's the default stage and one of the most recognizable.
- The Pit - A narrow bridge over deadly spikes. This stage includes the famous stage Fatality. At night, strange shapes or a head may fly across the moon when certain cheat flags are active.
- Palace Gates - A ceremonial exterior filled with ancient statues and ornate architecture. It has a calm, formal tone.
- Throne Room - Shang Tsung watches the match from his throne in a torch-lit chamber. A tense and dramatic setting.
- Goro's Lair - A dark dungeon filled with bones, chains, and shadows. This stage appears in the later rounds of the tournament.
- Warrior Shrine - A quiet stone hall displaying statues of all the fighters. It symbolizes honor, legacy, and the weight of the tournament.
Each stage helps bring the world of Mortal Kombat to life, from mystical temples to sinister dungeons.
💡Tips and Strategy
Whether you're new to Mortal Kombat or returning for a challenge, these tips will help you get the most out of the SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive version.
- Learn Each Character's Range and Speed
Some fighters are faster (like Liu Kang or Sonya), while others hit harder but move slower (like Kano). Find the one that fits your playstyle and practice their timing. - Use Special Moves to Control Distance
Moves like Sub-Zero's Freeze Ball or Scorpion's Spear are great for stopping aggressive opponents and setting up a follow-up attack. - Block Often
Holding the Block button is key to survival. It reduces incoming damage and gives you time to counter. Just don't rely on it too much - throws can still break through. - Practice Fatality Input Timing
Fatalities in the Genesis version require precise timing and distance. Practice the inputs after winning a round, so you're ready when the moment comes. - Stay Mobile
Jump kicks and sweeps are effective and relatively safe options. Moving often makes it harder for the CPU to trap you. - Use the Pit Stage Fatality
On The Pit stage, hold Block and press Up after the final hit to knock your opponent into the spikes - but only if the timing is right and you're close enough. - Watch for Patterns in CPU Behavior
The AI tends to fall for certain tactics, like repeated jump kicks or well-timed projectiles. Use that to your advantage, especially in later matches.
With practice and awareness, even the toughest fights can be overcome. Stay patient, know your character, and don't forget - "Finish Him!"
