Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat Review: Nostalgia Meets Modern Gameplay

Arcade1Up has been making waves in the gaming community by bringing classic arcade games back into our living rooms, and one of the most iconic among these is the Mortal Kombat series. This review dives deep into the Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat cabinet, assessing its design, gameplay, and overall value for both nostalgic gamers and newcomers.

Design and Build Quality

Arcade1Up has done an impressive job of replicating the look and feel of the original Mortal Kombat arcade cabinets. The cabinet is approximately 4 feet tall, which makes it slightly smaller than the original arcades, but it's designed to fit perfectly in a home setting. The artwork on the cabinet features the classic Mortal Kombat imagery, from the iconic dragon logo to the detailed character artwork. The colors are vibrant, and the graphics are high-quality, ensuring that the cabinet is a true showpiece in any room.

One of the most talked-about aspects of the Arcade1Up cabinets is their build quality. Made from MDF wood, the cabinet is sturdy and durable, though some users have noted that it might not withstand heavy use in a commercial setting. For home use, however, it's more than adequate. The controls—joystick and buttons—are another critical aspect. Arcade1Up has equipped this cabinet with controls that feel close to the original, with responsive buttons and a joystick that offers precise control. However, hardcore players might notice a slight difference in the responsiveness compared to the original arcade machines.

Games Included

The Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat cabinet includes three classic games: Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat II, and Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3. These games are emulated versions of the originals, providing an authentic arcade experience. Each game has been faithfully reproduced, from the iconic character selection screens to the brutal finishing moves. The inclusion of all three games offers great value, especially for fans who want to relive the evolution of the Mortal Kombat series.

Gameplay Experience

Playing Mortal Kombat on the Arcade1Up cabinet is a trip down memory lane for those who grew up with the series. The gameplay is smooth, and the emulation is nearly perfect, capturing the fast-paced, combo-heavy combat that made the series famous. The arcade controls add to the experience, making it feel like you're playing on an original arcade machine.

One of the standout features of this cabinet is the inclusion of local multiplayer. Mortal Kombat has always been about facing off against your friends, and Arcade1Up has kept this tradition alive. The cabinet supports two players, allowing for head-to-head combat just like in the old days. However, it's worth noting that the cabinet doesn't include online multiplayer, which could have been a nice addition for modern gamers.

Sound Quality

The sound quality on the Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat cabinet is another highlight. The iconic soundtrack and sound effects of Mortal Kombat are reproduced with clarity, bringing the arcade atmosphere to your home. The cabinet includes adjustable volume controls, so you can set the sound to your preferred level. However, some users have noted that at the highest volume settings, the sound can become slightly distorted, which is something to keep in mind if you prefer playing with loud audio.

Assembly Process

One aspect of the Arcade1Up experience that potential buyers should be aware of is the assembly process. The cabinet comes in a flat-pack box, and you'll need to assemble it yourself. The instructions are straightforward, but it can take a few hours to put everything together, especially if you're doing it alone. Once assembled, the cabinet is sturdy and ready to play, but the assembly process might be a hurdle for some buyers.

Price and Value

At its price point, the Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat cabinet offers excellent value, especially for fans of the series. While it’s not a cheap purchase, the combination of three classic games, authentic arcade controls, and nostalgic design makes it a worthwhile investment for many gamers. It’s also a great conversation piece and a fantastic addition to any game room or living space.

Comparisons with Other Arcade1Up Cabinets

When compared to other Arcade1Up cabinets, the Mortal Kombat version stands out due to the iconic status of the game series. While other cabinets, like the Street Fighter or Pac-Man ones, offer great experiences, Mortal Kombat's unique blend of fighting gameplay, memorable characters, and cultural impact gives it an edge. However, it's important to note that the appeal of the cabinet depends largely on your preference for fighting games versus other genres.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Nostalgic design: Faithful reproduction of the original arcade cabinet's artwork and design.
• Three games in one: Includes Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat II, and Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3.
• Smooth gameplay: Faithful emulation of the original arcade games.
• Local multiplayer: Supports two players, maintaining the original arcade experience.

Cons:

• Assembly required: The cabinet comes in a flat-pack and requires assembly.
• No online multiplayer: Lacks the option for online play, which might be a downside for some modern gamers.
• Slight control differences: The controls are close but not identical to the original arcade machines.

Final Verdict

The Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat cabinet is a must-have for fans of the series and those who appreciate retro gaming. It successfully captures the essence of the original arcade experience while making it accessible for home use. While it has a few minor drawbacks, like the lack of online multiplayer and the need for assembly, the overall package is impressive. For the price, it delivers a nostalgic punch that’s hard to beat.

If you're a fan of Mortal Kombat or simply looking to add a retro gaming cabinet to your collection, the Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat is an excellent choice. It’s not just a gaming machine but a piece of gaming history that brings the arcade experience home.

Conclusion

Arcade1Up's Mortal Kombat cabinet is a well-crafted tribute to one of the most iconic arcade games of all time. From its authentic design to the faithfully emulated gameplay, it offers a nostalgic and enjoyable experience for both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike. Whether you're looking to relive the glory days of the arcade or introduce a new generation to the brutality of Mortal Kombat, this cabinet is a worthy addition to any home.