Mortal Kombat 4

"Absolutely Impressive, for a small amount of time..."

Graphics Score: 9

First of all I would like to point out that this game had graphics that simply blew the other Mortal Kombats in the series directly to kingdom come. The other games in the series were always side-scrolling style, digitized from true-to-life human beings, and absolutely unrealistic. This Mortal Kombat broke the mold when it was born. The graphics blew my mind, for the reason that, after seeing such terrible graphics in the other games, it was more or less a slap in the face. The graphics were beautifully rendered in nearly full 3D, and every character had painstaking designs down to the most miniscule details. The one aspect of the graphics that caught my eye the most was the gore and blood unique to this series. In a rendered format, the gore was coming at you full force. A memorable scene was blood "splattered" on your television screen after a brutal Fatality move. Excellent addition to the game. All in all, the graphics add to the realism and playability of this game, and the blood adds to the fun. Keep them coming!

Sound Rating: 7

Honestly, it could have been a smidgen better. The sound was crafted nicely, and added to the feel and playability of the game, especially the splattering and smashing sounds of a formerly airborne opponent. The sounds in the backround were eerie and submitted good atmosphere. Could have been a bit better with the other sound effects; each weapon probably should have made a different sound hitting the ground, or an opponent. More sound effects from the characters would also have been appreciated. Otherwise, a job well done and very impressive on a good stereo system.

Control Rating: 5

Control is an easy thing to review. It is horrid. The control of the game is one of it's downfalls, and is not much different from the other games in the MK series. Very bad move my video game creator friends.

Lasting Appeal Rating: 3

Not good for lasting appeal, sorry gamers. Took me about 2 weeks and I got tired of it. Blood and gore are fun for a little while, but then you grow out of it, in the speed of a crab molting it's shell. Comparable to it also. Not a good buy unless you would like to use it as a coaster for Christmas parties.

Overall Playability Rating: 6

Game was good, but the storyline was the same, controls were terrible, and graphics and sound were the only things that saved this game from a lower rating. Wouldn't quite recommend it to someone who doesn't like bloody games, has small pockets for little wallets, or just thinks the game sucked as much as I did. Because it did. Impressive graphics and sound, but stick to renting it. It looks better in the display box than under a glass of hot cider.

Reviewer's Score: 6/10, Originally Posted: 11/01/99, Updated 11/01/99