List of Mortal Kombat arenas
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This is a list of arenas, also known as "Kombat Zones", used in the Mortal Kombat games.
[edit] Significant/recurring arenas
[edit] The Armory
The Outworld army's weapon armory. This is where the Outworld weapons are crafted; there is even lava in the background that would have been used to make the weapons. A Mortal Kombat symbol hangs in the center room. The Armory debuted in Mortal Kombat II, and subsequently appeared in Mortal Kombat Trilogy, Mortal Kombat: Tournament Edition, and Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks.
An updated version of this arena is featured in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon. This version of the Armory retains the lava in the background, which a player can now be knocked into as a death trap, but now also features a giant rolling rock crusher on a conveyor belt, which is used to smash ore to be melted down for weapons-making, or any player that is knocked onto it.
[edit] The Balcony
Motaro's sanctuary, it has two Centaurian statues on both sides of the room. A hole shows a green light where the Soul Chamber rests below.
The Balcony debuted in Mortal Kombat 3 and its remakes. It served as the arena where the player battled sub-boss Motaro (though in the SNES version of Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3, the battle with Motaro takes place on The Roof, as The Balcony was removed in the port).
The Balcony has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon renamed as Kahn's Balcony, its been changed greatly, with more detail added to the environs. It is also featured in the Konquest portion of the game, where the character Taven would end up fighting the shokan Goro.
[edit] Bell Tower
This is a bell tower that sits in an unknown realm; due to the easy recognition of the moon as Earth's moon and MK3's setting, it would most probably be set in Earthrealm.
Victorious players can use this arena's stage Fatality, uppercutting their opponents to send them down six stories and impaling them on the long spikes below.
This level premiered in Mortal Kombat 3 and reappeared in Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 and Mortal Kombat Trilogy.
This arena has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon though it has been drastically altered, and the death trap spikes have changed from a row of spikes to a set of spikes with blades at the bottom that would slice the victim's limbs off after sliding down a certain amount and afterward rats begin to drag the limbs away. This deathtrap is only possible by uppercutting the opponent during the "Finish Him/Her" prompt in the area around center bell at the bottom level of the stage. There are also numerous bells around the perimeter of the lower level that players can be bounced off of for extra damage, as well as the gigantic bell hanging in the middle of the room that players can be knocked into.
[edit] The Courtyard
This is the courtyard of Shang Tsung’s Island Fortress in the Lost Sea. Great tournaments have been held here for centuries. Guards patrol and students watch warriors engage in Mortal Kombat. It is sometimes referred to as simply "The Courtyard".
This arena premiered in the first Mortal Kombat. In it, an aged Shang Tsung sits in a throne and watches the Mortal Kombat tournament. Monk students also watch and applaud after every round is finished. This is reminiscent of the tournament courtyard from the movie set of Enter the Dragon.
In Mortal Kombat Trilogy, when fighting in this arena (renamed "Kung Fu Part 1") Shang Tsung has been replaced with Shao Kahn. It should be noted that the scepter that Kahn holds is not the same as the one in Kahn's Arena and Kahn's Kave. Also, the monks are no longer animated nor do they applaud after a round is over.
A different version of this arena was featured in Mortal Kombat: Deception.
[edit] The Dead Pool
The Dead Pool is a place for punishment and sacrifice. Captives would be bound with chains, then lowered into the acid below. Shang Tsung favored this method of punishment and built the Acid Bath.
Premiering in Mortal Kombat II, a modified version of this level appears in Mortal Kombat: Deception. The original Dead Pool featured a straight walkway across the acid, whereas in the Deception Dead Pool, players fight on a square patch of concrete in the middle of the acid. Players who are close to the edge can be knocked into the acid for an instant win. In Deception, Shang Tsung watches over the arena from a balcony, dressed in his MKII outfit.
The arena also appears in Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks. When players approach this arena in story mode, they are attacked by bloody skeletons.
Pressing and holding down in the stage fatality on MKII or simply activating the death trap on MK: D will make the voice of Dan Forden say something sounding similar to "Awwwuh".
Rumors had persisted since the earliest days of Mortal Kombat II that enemies could be impaled on a chain and lowered into the acid. Even in Mortal Kombat: Deception these rumors still ran strong, but it was not until Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks that this long dream of fans had finally been realized.
[edit] Dragon King Temple
This ancient structure is located in Outworld. The temple is part of a huge complex that is connected to an inner pyramid called The Lost Tomb.
This arena made its debut in Mortal Kombat: Deception as the arena where players face Onaga, the game's final boss.
This arena has two dragon-like statues by the entrance and a six-pointed star in the floor, each point connecting to a kamidogu. When a character destroys a kamidogu, the opponent becomes stunned for a few seconds. Players who venture too closely to the edge of the platform can be knocked into the spikes, garnering their opponent an instant win for that round.
[edit] Falling Cliffs
The Falling Cliffs is a hostile area of Outworld. Plagued with constant tremors and earthquakes, this volcanic region is very dangerous. Sulfur pours out of cracks and holes. Mountains billow smoke like giant chimneys.
This area was first seen in Mortal Kombat: Deception, and returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon as an unlockable stage.
A small rounded arena of dirt and rocks, there are a few cross-like polls on the outside rim, with a view of mountains in the background. As a fight continues, the arena becomes smaller and smaller as the outer levels fall away. Players caught on the ledge when this happens will find themselves impaled by the spikes at the bottom of the canyon. In the event that both players fall and are impaled, the player with the least damage taken during the match will win.
In Mortal Kombat: Armageddon the arena returns, but no big changes have been made.
[edit] The Fire Well
This arena appears to be surrounded by fire. The walls are decorated with the skeletal remains of defeated warriors, and the skulls of some fighters even litter the floor. These skulls can also be used as throwing weapons against your opponent. There appears to be only one entrance from a dark hallway.
This arena made its debut in Mortal Kombat 4 and Mortal Kombat Gold. The arena has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon and now features a conveyor belt death trap that players can utilize.
[edit] Goro's Lair
- This arena is sometimes referred to merely as "The Lair"
This lair is home to the Grand Champion Goro. Goro does battle in this lair. Shang Tsung also watches Goro's battles, for should he fail, Shang Tsung will intervene and battle as soon as Goro is defeated. Sometimes there will be boulders lying around. Spikes were later implemented on the lair’s ceiling.
Appeared in Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat II, Mortal Kombat Trilogy, Mortal Kombat 4, Mortal Kombat Gold, and Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks. Goro's Lair also appears in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon. Goro's Lair is tied with the Living Forest for having appeared in more Mortal Kombat games than any other arena.
In MKII, it appears when players fight the secret characters Jade, Smoke and Noob Saibot.
In Mortal Kombat Trilogy, this arena was used for the opening story.
In the Nintendo 64 version of Mortal Kombat Trilogy, the Armory is located above Goro's Lair, and players can uppercut opponents there and from there to the The Kombat Tomb. Strangely, Goro's Lair is known to be located in Earthrealm, whereas both The Tomb and Armory are in Outworld. The possibility exists that the Lair is linked to the Armory in Outworld via a portal, much as Scorpion's Lair in Netherrealm lead to Kahn's Cave.
The version of Goro's Lair seen in Mortal Kombat 4 and Gold is not much different from the original Goro's Lair, other than its spiked ceiling.
Shaolin Monks reveals that the lair is actually made up of several rooms and houses vicious Oni.
In Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, Goro's Lair is a multi-tiered arena. Players can knock their opponent either upwards into another chamber, or through the various surrounding gates. The chamber the player ends up in is nearly identical to the primary chamber, but with less wall decoration (while maintaining an infinite number of cells a player can be knocked through).
[edit] Hell
This arena is new to Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, and is a remake of the arena called "Scorpion's Lair", which appeared in Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 and Mortal Kombat Trilogy. Hell is located in the Netherrealm. Players fight on a circular platform, which goes down to the deepest levels of Netherrealm. Skulls, demons, floating ghosts and lava can be seen on the background.
[edit] Hell’s Foundry
In Hell’s Foundry, giant steel smashers pound out newly cast slabs of metal, or any kombatant foolish enough to stray near. They will be used to make the instruments of war needed to defend the Dragon King’s reign as the ruler of Outworld.
This arena made its debut in Mortal Kombat: Deception and has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon as an unlockable stage.
[edit] Kahn's Arena
In Outworld, Shao Kahn has his own arena where the Emperor will sometimes battle opponents himself. There are literally hundreds of spectators that come to see their emperor crush opponents in battle. When not battling, Shao Kahn observes the fight from his throne.
Sonya Blade and Kano were captured and held here in Mortal Kombat II as prisoners forced to observe the vicious battles that took place to the delight of the blood thirsty crowd and Shao Kahn himself when not competing. Kahn's Arena also reappeared in Mortal Kombat Trilogy, however due to Sonya and Kano being playable they were removed from the background.
While this arena originally premiered in Mortal Kombat II, it has been overhauled for Mortal Kombat: Armageddon. The new arena now has four Death Traps of various flavors: twin crushing gears, both acid and lava baths, and a pike-laiden pit.
This is the arena where players battle with Shao Kahn and Kintaro in MKII and Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks.
[edit] Kombat Temple
- This arena is also sometimes referred to as "The Temple" or "Church"
Shao Kahn had a temple constructed for himself after successfully invading Earthrealm.
This arena debuted in Mortal Kombat 3 and appeared in later installments as well such as Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 and Mortal Kombat Trilogy. Though the arena was not featured in Mortal Kombat 4, it was later featured in the upgrade for Dreamcast, Mortal Kombat Gold, and renamed "The Church".
[edit] Kombat Tomb
- This arena is sometimes referred to as merely "The Tomb"
This is a tomb for dead warriors. There are spikes on the ceiling where players may be sent to their death. Dragonfly ships can be seen flying in the background. According to the N64 version of MK Trilogy, this is located on top of the armory.
This arena first appeared in Mortal Kombat II. It has subsequently been featured in Mortal Kombat Trilogy and Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks.
[edit] Kuatan Palace
The throne room of Kuatan Palace is decorated with the heads of ancient great rulers of the Shokan race. Prince Goro ruled here as one of the most feared half human, half dragon Shokan warriors. After his apparent death, an elaborate funeral procession led his casket to the Circle of Judgement. Statues of his ancestors looked on while the casket was lowered into the eternal river of lava. Princess Kitana, representing the Royal Family of Edenia, attended and bid farewell to her old friend. Unbeknownest to Kitana, however, it was not Goro inside the casket but a disfigured Shokan warrior Goro had placed his royal seal upon to fool people into thinking he had died in battle. He had actually been saved from death by Shao Kahn himself after being left for dead from a sneak attack by Noob Saibot.
This arena first appeared in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance and returned later in Mortal Kombat: Deception complete with a death trap that left victims burning alive in the molten lava surrounding the platform.
[edit] Lin Kuei Temple
Sub-Zero needed a remote base of operations for his newly reformed Lin Kuei. After a long search, he found this mysterious and ancient temple frozen in the arctic and immediately claimed it as the new temple of the Lin Kuei.
In Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, the Lin Kuei Temple is one of the arenas in the racing minigame Motor Kombat, while the temple court and inner sanctums are arenas in Konquest mode.
[edit] Living Forest
The Living Forest is located in Outworld. These woods of mystery have haunted inhabitants for centuries. The trees themselves are living, some with faces that groan and roar. The faces sometimes move a lot or sometimes they may lie dormant for years.
The Living Forest is tied with Goro's Lair for having appeared in more Mortal Kombat games than any other arena. This stage premiered in Mortal Kombat II and then later in Mortal Kombat Trilogy. It is a playable arena in Mortal Kombat: Deception, and is also seen in Deception's Konquest mode.
In Mortal Kombat II, Jade and Smoke could be seen lurking in the background, occasionally poking their heads from around the trees. A since-disproven rumor had the winning player performing a stage Fatality where one of the trees would chew up the opponent; this concept was integrated into the Shaolin Monks version as a means of progressing through the level.
The arena is seen again in Mortal Kombat 4 and Mortal Kombat Gold; it is very similar to its previous incarnation, although Smoke and Jade are no longer hiding in the trees and it is now in 3D.
The arena's Mortal Kombat: Deception appearance remained largely unaltered, aside from adding a ditch around the arena and crisper graphics. Oddly enough, in this incarnation of the Living Forest, the trees do not moan or roar.
In Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks, the Living Forest is both a Versus mode arena and an area players can access through the single player/co-op modes. However, it looks significantly different than its MKII predecessor, sporting tombs and lit by many torches.
[edit] Meteor Storm
This arena is new to Mortal Kombat: Armageddon. It is rumored to be a remake of The Pit II stage from Mortal Kombat II. The battle begins on a top platform, with meteors falling and crashing nearby constantly. A player can knock their opponent off of the edge of the top platform, sending them crashing through a bridge and finally landing on a lower platform where the fight continues. However, the lower platform is located near jagged rocks with a bridge over top of them, fueling the Pit II rumors
[edit] Netherrealm
The Netherrealm arena appearing in Mortal Kombat Gold is essentially an altered version of Scorpion's Lair from Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3. The battle takes places in a small throne room, but in the background, behind the throne, the familiar pillars of skeletal remains from Scorpion's Lair can be seen with the lava casting its reddish glow.
It is unknown who the throne belongs to, but it is probable that it belongs to the ruler of the Netherrealm, namely either Lucifer or Shinnok, depending on the time.
[edit] Nethership
Ages ago, Shang Tsung used this transport to cross the Lost Sea to the Celestial Portal of Outworld. It was also used to bring warriors from the mainland to Shang Tsung's island fortress. In ancient times, vessels like these were referred to as ghost ships.
This vessel is mainly used as a cargo ship for Shang Tsung to transport the Dragon King's Army from the Lost Tomb to his palace. At times, Shang Tsung will carry prisoners in the ship's cages, further torturing their souls as they await their executions.
This arena is quite simply a massive sail boat, with two enormous sails jutting out on either side of the ship. It has a dragon head on the mast jutting out over the water, and a huge cabin/deckhouse at the back of it. Puddles of water litter the boat as two warriors fight to the death. Massive waves cascade over the sides of the boat as it makes it deadly journey to Shang Tsung's Palace.
[edit] Nethership Interior
The Nethership is seen again in Mortal Kombat: Deception, but this time bouts take place below deck, in the belly of the ship. The two fighters start out on a ledge above the very bottom of the ship. Behind each fighter is a map on the wall, apparently to help the sailors of the ship. To the left sides of the fighters are glass windows overlooking the sea outside. These windows are breakable, revealing the rough seas outside. Fighters can be knocked through wooden rails to the lower larger area of the ship. This hull area has a series of corpses hanging from ropes that rock with the ship. The corpses can be used as shields in battle or when punched, they can be used as minor swinging weapons.
The Nethership Interior returns in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon looking unaltered.
[edit] Nexus Arena
This arena is its own tiny realm that was created by the Elder Gods for their Champion. It made its premiere in Mortal Kombat: Deception, and appears in a slightly different form in the Konquest mode of the game. In Konquest, it contains six portals, one to each of the six main realms, and an altar in the centre where the player places the Kamidogu. In versus mode, it is simply a circular arena with no other features.
A notable feature of this level is the ability for players to knock their opponent through the columns and into the void surrounding the arena, thereby garnering an instant win. Once a column or wall has been destroyed, though, the player cannot be thrown out through that area. In the practice mode of Deception, it is possible for a player to knock out every single wall and column.
This arena is the only location where the character Monster can be seen and fought.
[edit] Palace Grounds
Recently built by Li Mei’s people under threat of death, Shang Tsung’s palace is not only the base of operations for the Deadly Alliance, but it also serves as the new location for housing the Dragon King’s mummified army.
This arena premiered in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance. Though it did not reappear in the sequel, Mortal Kombat: Deception, it is visible in the game's opening cinematic. In it, the camera travels up the stairs and through the gates, resting at the battle between the Deadly Alliance and Raiden.
[edit] The Pit
There have been several different "Pit" arenas throughout the Mortal Kombat series.
[edit] The Pit I
On Shang Tsung’s island fortress lies the pit. Combatants fight on a bridge suspended over a sea of steel spikes, which is the source of death for anyone unlucky enough to be knocked off.
This arena premiered in the first Mortal Kombat. It would later reappear in Mortal Kombat Trilogy, however, with a star-filled background instead of moving clouds.
This was also featured in Mortal Kombat: Deception. Few changes were made since its last appearance, although instead of a bridge, the players fight on a square platform. The bridge from the original game can still be seen in the background, however.
The Pit I also appears in the Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks. During the first part of the game, which is very similar to the first Mortal Kombat, the player can go from top of the pit to the bottom without dying, although damage is taken should the character touch the spikes. The first Stage Fatality appeared here, where the victor would uppercut (or in Shaolin Monks, perform a variety of different moves) their opponent off the bridge, who would land on the spikes.
In all of the games, except for MKT, silhouettes occasionally appear in front of the moon. In Shaolin Monks, the player character will even point them out, and in the original Mortal Kombat, it was necessary for a shadow to be over the moon in order to unlock a battle with Reptile.
The Pit I is the only pit arena where players simply had to uppercut their opponent to perform the Stage Fatality.
It's interesting to note that although The Pit I isn't a playable arena in Mortal Kombat Armageddon, it is seen on as of the main screens showing Scorpion and Sub Zero.
[edit] The Pit Bottom
Located under the bridge, this is the pit rowed with razor sharp spikes that is meant to impale anyone who gets knocked off the bridge. Many warriors' bodies rest here as a tomb. In Mortal Kombat, this is where the player fights Reptile.
The disembodied heads and remains of various Midway employees like MK creators Ed Boon and John Tobias as well as MK sound programmer Dan Forden can be seen impaled on the Pit Bottom.
This arena appears in Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat Trilogy and Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks.
[edit] The Pit II
This is a bridge with another bridge further out into the distance. A full moon shows and any contestant unfortunate to lose a battle on this bridge may lose his life by falling off and hitting the solid rock bottom below. "Hornbuckle" and Blaze face each other in the background.
This arena appears in Mortal Kombat II.
When this arena reappeared in Mortal Kombat Trilogy, the pit fatality feature was taken out of the game due to the fatality's unique overhead shot and the amount of characters either not found in or were updated from MKII that would've had to have been animated.
This arena reappeared in Shaolin Monks as a hidden area.
The Pit II seems to have been remade in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon as "Meteor Storm". Players can knock their opponent off of the main platform, crashing through a bridge and continuing the fight at a lower platform located near what seems to be the bottom of the Pit II arena, complete with jagged rocks.
[edit] The Pit III
During Kahn's invasion of Earthrealm in Mortal Kombat Trilogy, he had a fortress built within a large city, which can be seen in many other arenas. This arena is Kahn's throne room, with his throne on the far right. This is where the final battle with Shao Kahn takes place at the end of the game. Statues are engraved on the back wall, and below the bridge are rapidly spinning blades that would shred anyone unfortunate enough to fall off it.
This arena appears in Mortal Kombat 3, Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3, and Mortal Kombat Trilogy.
[edit] The Portal arenas
There have been several different "Portal" arenas throughout the Mortal Kombat series.
[edit] The Portal (MKII)
This arena lies in the Highlands of Outworld. The portal remains still but with lightning striking in the center. This gateway is very unstable and unpredictable. Shadow Priests stand guard as watchers.
A blue palette swapped version of this arena appeared in Mortal Kombat II only in the Sega Genesis port. It is used for fighting hidden opponents Jade and Smoke instead of fighting in Goro's Lair.
The original MKII Portal stage also reappeared in MK Trilogy with an added pagoda-style temple on each end of the arena.
This arena forms the basis of several areas in Outworld in Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks. The areas are generally guarded by two Shadow Priests that must be defeated before the bridge to the portal will appear.
[edit] The Hidden Portal
- This arena is sometimes referred to as "Smoke's Portal."
A bridged area, ruined towers (that are in fact the "Choose Your Destiny" towers) can be seen in the background and a portal in the sky. This arena is accessed when fighting Smoke via Kombat Kode in Mortal Kombat 3 and Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3, and only reappeared in the Nintendo 64 version of MK Trilogy. It is also part of the Portal arena in Mortal Kombat: Deception
[edit] Lost Bridge
- This arena is sometimes referred to as "Scislac Busorez."
This arena consists of a bridge with a large blue-purple portal in the background. This is in fact a combination of the levels The Pit II and The Pit III, with the portal being taken from the Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 "Choose Your Destiny" background.
This background also reappeared in MK Trilogy. In the N64 version of that game, Blaze and "Hornbuckle" randomly appear on The Pit II bridge in the background.
[edit] The Portal (Deadly Alliance)
A portal that is said to be known only to sorcerers and deities, it is located in Outworld and transports it's users to Earthrealm. The Deadly Alliance used this portal to get to Earthrealm in order to murder Liu Kang, after they apparently killed Shao Kahn in Outworld.
[edit] The Portal (Deception)
This portal is a 3D version of the Portal from Mortal Kombat II, and The Hidden Portal. The Towers from The Hidden Portal can be seen on one side of the arena, with The Portal arena on the other. The portal now spins.
[edit] The Prison
One of the prisons in the Netherrealm. A defeated opponent here could find themselves tossed in the rapid turning fans that are fast enough to shred any contestant.
This stage first debuted in Mortal Kombat 4/Mortal Kombat Gold.
A variation of this arena has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon however, it takes place aboard Sektor's Tekunin Warship. There are now four fans in the background, one at each corner of the arena, but they no longer serve as death traps as it did in Mortal Kombat 4/Mortal Kombat Gold, they merely serve as hazards that damage the players, as they are knocked into them, shredding the blades, then being shot through the ventilation ducts and spewed back into the arena. However, there is a fifth fan on the ceiling, narrowly unseen during the fights, that serves for a death trap only in the "Finish Him/Her" prompt, where the winning player must uppercut the losing player at the center of the room or near (just below this fan, actually).
[edit] Pyramid of Argus
This arena made its debut in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon. It was a trap for the kombatants upon the rise of armageddon. Atop is where fighters would face the elemental Blaze in the single player. In multiplayer mode, it is little more then a circular arena with no special features.
[edit] Quan Chi's Fortress
The interior of Quan Chi’s stronghold. It features the fighting arena on the right and Quan Chi’s inner sanctum in "centerfield". The inner sanctum is a place, protected by magical runes, where Quan Chi leaves his body as he astroplanes to other spheres of existence. Quan Chi’s Fortress is located in Outworld. The glowing egg in the background is where Quan Chi recharges his power. The center ring rests above a network of lasers. The lasers make a spider web pattern which is fitting for this evil sorcerer.
This arena first appeared in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance and returned in Mortal Kombat: Deception complete with a newly added laser web death trap.
[edit] Reptile's Lair
This is the lair of Reptile. According to Shaolin Monks, this is hidden deep within the living forest. Within it, trials have to be passed before the character goes on to battle Reptile and his giant snake.
This arena made its first appearance in Mortal Kombat 4, and returned for Shaolin Monks.
An updated version of this arena has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, complete with a series of large reptile eggs lining the arena that the opponent can be knocked into for damage. The large snake was originally going to be a deathtrap, but since the snake died before its time, the structure was made in its honor, that was taken from a description, from inside the game, this was referring to the large snake from Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks.
[edit] Scorpion's Lair
Scorpion's lair, located somewhere in the depths of the Netherealm. There is lava in the background that losers may find themselves bathing in. Pillars bearing the skeletons of vanquished warriors are visible in the background.
This arena premiered in Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 and Mortal Kombat Trilogy. Performing an uppercut on an opponent will send them up into Shao Kahn's Kave.
A variation of this arena can be seen in Mortal Kombat Gold renamed to Netherrealm. The battle takes places in a small throne room, but in the background, behind the throne, the familiar pillars of skeletal remains from Scorpion's Lair can be seen with the lava casting its reddish glow.
A remake of this arena has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon under the name "Hell". Players initially fight on a circular floating rock island that appears to be falling through the myriad levels of the Netherealm, complete with the souls of the tortured floating around and demons feasting upon them seen in the background. From here, a player can knock his/her opponent (or be knocked themselves) off the island and down in front of the familiar Skull entrance to the Lair. From here, if knocked off the platform, they get sent to the a lower circular platform, with the loop continuing.
Another arena in Armageddon contains the Scorpion's Lair name, but looks completely different, more resembling the Mortal Kombat 4 arena Fire Well than the other arenas with the Lair's name.
[edit] Shaolin Temple
The Shaolin temple is where the Shaolin monks go to spar with each other and to hone their skills. There are doors that lead into the room with the Mortal Kombat symbols by them; a storm can be seen through the window. Rooms such as this can also be found in Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero, featuring the Eldest Sub-Zero's adventures before his demise in the first Mortal Kombat at the hands of Scorpion.
[edit] Sky Temple
The Sky Temple is located in Earthrealm. This structure is a place of meditation for Lord Raiden. His mighty war hammer lies on the roof and acts as a lightning rod. The Sky Temple is 1,666 ft (508 m) tall.
This arena debuted in Mortal Kombat: Deception.
Combat in this arena begins on the upper platform, which has Raiden's war hammer in the center for players to use. An opponent can be knocked down to the second level. From here, it is possible to instantly win the round by knocking the opposing fighter through the wall and down to the ground, where they explode on impact.
This arena has returned Mortal Kombat: Armageddon as an unlockable stage.
[edit] Soul Chamber
- This arena is also sometimes referred to as the "Cavern of Souls"
Once Shao Kahn takes the souls of the Earthrealm he stores them in the soul chamber. It is here that the souls are trapped and are watched by the shadow priest.
Uppercutting an opponent in this arena sends them up into the Balcony arena.
This arena premiered in Mortal Kombat 3, and was brought back for Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3, Mortal Kombat Trilogy and Mortal Kombat Gold. This arena has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, this time with small statues similar in look and position to the Kamidogu found in Onaga's Lair in Mortal Kombat; Deception, that the player can smash the opponent through for damage. When smashed, the soul contained within the statue would be released.
[edit] The Subway
This is an underground subway in the Earthrealm. As Ed Boon and John Tobias are known for putting their names in the game, two places that the subway leads to are called 'Boon' and 'Tobias'. Players defeated in this arena may find themselves thrown into the path of an oncoming subway train.
This arena made its way through Mortal Kombat 3 series and has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, complete with a Death Trap version of the stage's classic Fatality.
[edit] Tekunin Warship
- This arena is also sometimes referred to as the "Tekunin Prison"
This arena is featured Mortal Kombat: Armageddon and its Konquest mode.
The Tekunin Warship appears to be a variation of The Prison arena from Mortal Kombat Gold. The fan in the background no longer serves as the death trap as it did in Mortal Kombat 4/Mortal Kombat Gold, it merely serves as a hazard that damages the players while a larger overhead fan on the ceiling chops the victim sent up there to pieces. There also appears to be a computer console and glass visual screen in the arena that you can destroy by sending your opponent into them. In the developemental version of Mortal Kombat Armageddon, Frost would appear in the stage's opening working on a console to seal the doors. Frost would be replaced by a red colored Cyrax (Sektor's appearance in Mortal Kombat Tournament Edition) on both doors in the arena in the final version of the game.
[edit] The Tower
A tower that, according to Shaolin Monks, is in Outworld, but is so high up that a blue sky can be seen.
First appeared in Mortal Kombat II & returned in Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks. This arena has returned in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, renamed the "Evil Tower", featuring a previously unseen area where players can knock their opponent down a nearby flight of stairs to an outdoor section of the arena, featuring a deathtrap portal that players can utilize.
[edit] Warrior Shrine
A shrine dedicated to honor the contestants of the tenth Mortal Kombat tournament, which would have been Shang Tsung's ultimate victory if he had it. Goro's statue is in the center being the Grand Champion. This area is also commonly referred to as "The Hall of Statues".
First appeared in the original Mortal Kombat and then again in Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks.
The warriors in the shrine are (not in order) Scorpion/Sub-Zero, Sonya Blade, Raiden, Goro, Johnny Cage, Liu Kang, and Kano. In Shaolin Monks, a fight with the secret character Ermac will ensue if the player inspects the ninja statue three times, and – in the later discovered Endurance mode – the shrine is also where the player fight all four ninja characters (Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Ermac, and Reptile). In this battle, the statues can be destroyed for a medium health refill.
According to the canon story, the shrine is found on Shang Tsung's island, but in the non-canon Shaolin Monks, it is located on the grounds of the Wu Shi Academy.
[edit] The Wastelands
Most of Outworld consists of wastelands and ruined plains, and this is just a single area of it.
This arena made its debut in Mortal Kombat II then returned in Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks, where players meet - and rescue - a maskless Kabal.
In Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, this arena returns as a stone fortress within the wasteland at war with another nearby tower. The players start within the fortress' main gates, although you can knock the opponent through the gate down to the courtyard below, which contains five burning catapults being used in the battle, which also work as deathtraps - there is one more catapult within the gates, too.
The first Mortal Kombat film used the Wastelands as the basis for a set in the later third of the film.
[edit] Wu Shi Academy
Wu Shi Academy. Five great masters founded the school dedicated to fighting the forces of evil. The center practice area is used to evaluate tests as the teachers watch from the tower. This is also the featured arena used in the opening cinematic depicting the Deadly Alliance murdering Liu Kang.
This arena was first seen in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance, and then returned in Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks.
[edit] Minor arenas
[edit] Mortal Kombat
- Palace Gates: These gates lead into Shang Tsung's palace. The gates are decorated by numerous statues. The gates also have lion statues that symbol the guarding of his palace. At the far right of the arena, there are pictures of Pac-Man and the ghosts from the same game above the door.
- Throne Room: The throne room inside Shang Tsung's island palace. Gold dragon statues litter the space, as Shang Tsung watches the contestants battle on his red carpet. He applauds after each round is fought. Premiering in the first Mortal Kombat, a variation of this arena appears in the opening cinematic for Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks where, instead of one fight at a time, three fights happen at the same time, with some of the fighters interferring in others' (Sub-Zero vs. Scorpion, Kano vs. Sonya and Johnny cage vs. Reptile). Also, the Masked Guards did not appear in the original version of this arena.
[edit] Mortal Kombat 3
Unless otherwise noted, the following arenas also appeared in Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3.
- The Bank: This is a bank in the city that Shao Kahn takes over in his quest to take over Earthrealm. His fortress is visible in the city skyline in the background. Players can uppercut their opponents through the ceiling, bringing the battle to the Rooftop arena. In the arcade version of MK3, The Bank was the only regular arena that was removed in the update, Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3. It was later included in Mortal Kombat Trilogy, with a new red carpet replacing the stone floor.
- The Bridge: A bridge inside the city. Buildings can be seen in the background. This arena made its debut in Mortal Kombat 3 and reappeared in its remakes. It is modeled after the city of Chicago, where the MK team is based.
- Noob Saibot's Dorfen (Also referred to as "Noob's Dorfen"): On the other side of the soul chamber hole and across from Motaro's balcony, Noob Saibot has his own sanctuary where he hides within the shadows. Noob's Dorfen is merely The Balcony itself with the back wall and Centaurian statues removed.
- The Rooftop (Also referred to as "The Roof"): This is the rooftop of the bank stage. It also has a better view of the city and Shao Kahn's fortress. Stone gargoyles line the edge of the building. This place served as the battleground between Sonya and Kano in MK3, the former emerging victorious and the latter plummeting all the way down to the ground.
- The Street: Located just above the subway, this is a normal street set in an American city. The city can be seen as well as Shao Kahn's newly constructed fortress.
- The Graveyard (Also referred to as "Cemetery"): A massive graveyard, Johnny Cage was found and buried here after his death by the Extermination Squads. A full moon shines. On some of the headstones, players can see some of the games' design team names, such as Ed Boon and John Tobias. The supposed date of death on the tombstones is the date on which Mortal Kombat 3 was released in arcades. In the Nintendo 64 version of Mortal Kombat Trilogy, the stage has more random names on the gravestones near the front. As well as the original Midway design team of MK3, names of the team at Williams Entertainment were added. The date of death on the stones was changed, from April 1, 1995 to September 30, 1996, MK Trilogy's release date.
[edit] Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3
- Jade's Desert (Also referred to as "The Desert" or "Cyrax’s Desert"): This arena premiered in Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 and appeared in the follow-up, Mortal Kombat Trilogy. It is a desert in Outworld given to Jade by Emperor Shao Kahn. A walkway was built over the sand to assure safe passage across the vast desert. Cyrax can be seen in the background, alluding to his victory storyline that states he malfunctioned and was lost in the desert after defeating Shao Kahn. This story (minus his victory over Shao Kahn) became a part of the canon storyline. Somewhat paradoxically, even if a player is using Cyrax, the other one still will be in the background.
- Kahn's Kave (Also referred to as "Shao Kahn's Kave", "The Cave", or "The Kave"): This is where Shao Kahn tried to steal the souls from the Netherealm. Kahn's Kave is above a large cavern in the Netherealm, namely Scorpion's Lair. In the N64 version of Mortal Kombat Trilogy this stage is "enhanced". The floor's glow is now animated and there are moving clouds in the background.
- The Waterfront: An arena just next to a river. There is a collapsed bridge partially in the river, and a view of the city in the background.
[edit] Mortal Kombat Trilogy
- Star Bridge: This is a remake of the Pit II level, only with stars in the background as opposed to clouds.
Along with the character Khameleon, The Star Bridge was a new feature that made its only appearance in the Nintendo 64 version of Mortal Kombat Trilogy.
[edit] Mortal Kombat 4
The following arenas also appeared in Mortal Kombat Gold.
- Elder Gods: This is an arena that the Elder Gods watch. The room is simple with fire in the walls and the Mortal Kombat symbol. There are two-pointed star symbols on the walls, as well as an eight-pointed star symbol on the floor. There is a single entrance to the arena. This is believed to be the location where mortals speak to the Elder Gods.
- Ice Pit: A pit, but unlike previously encountered pits. In this stage, the player is in a circular pit outside and surrounded by walls. It is snowing outside and with doors that lead into the pit. Debuted in the console versions of Mortal Kombat 4. Although the arena was entitled Ice Pit, leading many fans to believe an arena-based death could be triggered, there was no associated Stage Fatality. However, if the One-Button Fatality cheat was enabled in the home versions, a glitch could be found as the players press the Stage Fatality Button: all arenas, except for The Prison, emulate the death trap seen in Goro's Lair, the bed of spikes on the ceiling. Even in the Ice Pit, where there was no ceiling, this was possible.
- Skull Stage: This is an unused level which can be found in all home ports of Mortal Kombat 4. The arena takes place inside a structure which looks like the inside of a skull; flames burn outside through windows resembling the skull's eyes. The level can be played using a GameShark code for either the PlayStation or Nintendo 64 versions of MK4, or a trainer for the PC version. The Skull Stage was not finished, but its leftover remnants were accidentally left in the game by the developers allowing it to be accessed.[1]
- The Tomb: A tomb, although it is unknown who it was built for. The window sills are in the shapes of skulls and the floor is littered with boulders.
- Wind World: This is an outdoor arena among the mountains. Rain constantly pours down during battles. This arena is also featured in the intro for the game when Raiden explains his past with Shinnok. In both Mortal Kombat 4 and Mortal Kombat Gold, if the correct Kombat Kode is entered, the rain in this stage will be changed to blood.
[edit] Mortal Kombat Gold
- Ladder: The ladder stage is exclusive to MK Gold.
[edit] Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance
- Acid Bath: This place of sacrifice is where Shang Tsung once resided. Tournaments were held here and the loser would be sprayed by the four acid-spitting Buddhas surrounding the ring. The Buddha statues serve as a hazard during matches (the only form of arena interaction present in this game). Many fans also speculated that it was possible to do an arena fatality, or later referred to as a death trap, in this very arena, but these rumors would be proven to be false.
- Dragonfly: The Dragonfly is the fastest form of transportation across the vast expanses of Outworld, aside from sorcery. There are many of these flying transports, each with its own set of destinations.
- Drum Arena: The cliff people of Makeba hold their trials here. The giant drummers beat their drums as the fighters beat each other up. It is said that in the event of a tie, Konga, the biggest drummer, will challenge both of the warriors.
- House of Pekara: The House of Pekara was a place of worship built upon a tomb of ancient warrior kings. It was in the labyrinth below this structure that Shang Tsung fooled Kenshi into releasing the souls of the kings.
- Lava Shrine: The last Dragon Egg incubates in an underground Lava Shrine. A secret group of priests cares for and protects the egg, waiting for it to hatch.
- Lost Tomb: The Lost Tomb is located in the Golden Desert inside a pyramid near the Sarna Ruins. The entrance was buried for thousands of years until a great earthquake created an opening. The Dragon King’s army was entombed here until his second coming. An unknown keeper maintains the tomb and its portal. This pyramid was once thought to be a solid structure.
- Lung Hai Temple: Lung Hai Temple serves the Great sea dragon with sacrificial offerings. Defeated warriors are sacrificed to the dragon from a floating platform on the ocean’s inlet.
- Moloch's Lair: Located deep below Shang Tsung’s palace, this lair serves as a place of torment, where Moloch resides. The arena is an echo of Goro's Lair, as both serve as underground chambers that hold a beast, both being Sub-Bosses (and Shang Tsungs minions). This is the only arena in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance players will face Moloch.
- Sarna Ruins: The Sarna Ruins were located just outside of the pyramid of the Dragon King. After the king’s death, it was hoped that the last dragon egg could be incubated here. But with growing instability in the land, the Dragon King’s holy men were forced to hide the egg in an underground molten cavern far from this location.
- Shang Tsung's Palace (Soul Palace): In return for reviving the mummified army of the Dragon King, Quan Chi unlocked the ancient portal to the Heavens for Shang Tsung. The result is a green swirl of tortured souls. Shang Tsung will now have access to an unlimited number of souls to sustain his life force forever.
[edit] Mortal Kombat: Deception
- Beetle Lair: The Beetle Lair is located in the realm of Outworld. This tomb-like structure is located high in the Lei Chen Mountains. It is said that it was a place of worship for a warrior demi-god as seen in the carvings on the wall. Blood beetles roam freely, and a powerful weapon known as the Thor Axe is located here. The Beetle Lair is made up of two different rooms. The first has a beetle glass structure and two pillars, all three of which can be broken. Players can knock their opponents through the wall without a door or window, leading them to the second area. Here, an axe can be found and used by either player. Both rooms are swarming with flesh eating beetles, which were intended for a death trap, but the idea was scrapped. Instead, players can squash the bugs as they walk over them.
- Chamber of Artifacts: The Red Dragon clan built the Chamber of Artifacts to house the numerous tablets and treasures they have stolen. The most mysterious item is a large sword embedded in a giant green gem. They are trying to unlock its mysteries by constructing a large time piece with pressure sensitive chambers. It holds the same inscriptions that Quan Chi discovered in the ancient ruins. The players start on the upper level of the Chamber, where the sword is, and can either smash through the gem to gain access to the sword or through the floor to the lower chamber below; once in the lower level, a player can uppercut his/her opponent through the glass ceiling/floor separating the two levels, though the glass is too fragile to hold the opponent when they come back down, thus returning to the upper level is impossible.
- Dark Prison: The Dark Prison is located deep below Shang Tsung’s Palace Grounds. The prisoners were not criminals, but merely the next victims. The lucky ones had a quick death in the spiked human compactor for the amusement of the guards (this serves as the Death Trap for the arena). Others pointlessly struggled for their lives out in the Courtyard serving as fodder for the skilled fighters during Mortal Kombat tournaments. The unlucky ones still died, but if Shang Tsung claimed the energy of their souls, they served him for eternity. The Dark Prison features several character cameo appearances, including Fujin, Stryker and Kintaro. These characters, if confined on the ground level of the prison, can hold a player for a free hit if they get too close.
- Dragon Mountain: Dragon Mountain is located in Outworld. This mountain is nearly hollow on the inside with a maze of caverns and tunnels running throughout. A temple was constructed here for worship of the dragon.
- Golden Desert: The cliff side arena lies on the outer edge of the Golden Desert. Centuries ago, giant caverns were dug in the mountainside where statues were placed. A new community came here after a deep water well sprung, creating an oasis. Characters can be knocked down to lower balcony areas. Once players reach this area, they can encounter two Death Traps: Knocking the opponent into the far cliff walls to either side will cause one of the massive statues to fall on top of them, while being knocked off the front edge will cause the opponent to fall onto a rock spire below.
- Liu Kang’s Tomb: After Liu Kang was killed by the Deadly Alliance, the masters of the Wu Shi Academy had his body carefully preserved and hidden deep in the nearby forest, away from the forces of evil. Academy students come to Liu Kang’s Tomb periodically for retreats and meditation on their lessons. Medallions showing his four Mortal Kombat victories are displayed above the eternal flame of his memory.
- Lower Mines: This mining complex, used to gather ore for the making of weapons, is located in Outworld. A giant mechanical beast’s head crushes rocks with its iron jaws. On the lower level a huge grinding wheel spins away, crushing stone. The stone is thrown over the side into an incinerator. Naturally, all three of these mechanisms can prove deadly for any player foolish enough to get near.
- Slaughterhouse: The Slaughterhouse is located in the Netherealm in the city of Nekros. Grinders are located throughout this grim complex. Men and animals are thrown into the grinders as a sacrifice. The remains fall into a river of blood and flesh that is consumed by the dwellers of this dark realm.
- Yin Yang Island: This island is stuck in-between two realms, Earthrealm and Outworld. Sailors have said they have seen an island in a bed of fog, then it would vanish. They said trees would become snakes then turn back into trees again. No one would believe them and blamed the delusions on the rum.
- This arena made its debut in Mortal Kombat: Deception. During a match, the arena will suddenly switch between a Light version, featuring a sunny sky and swaying palm trees, to a Dark version, with no visible sunlight and giant snakes instead of trees. Players can knock their opponents through the two statues that appear on the island, as well as into palm trees in the light version, which results in a coconut dropping onto the opponents head, causing mild damage. Players must also be weary of approaching the edges of the island, as it is possible to be knocked into the water; players who do so are rewarded with an instant win, as their opponent is consumed by piranhas. This fatality only occurs during its dark phase. Many other things change as the 'Earthrealm light' changes to 'Outworld dark', such as the ferry in the background changing to Shang Tsung's Nethership, or the change in music, from a Caribbean steel pan drum, to darker music with a distorted guitar. The breakable statues also change from Buddha-like statues holding a bowl of flowers to skeletal statues holding a bowl on fire. When knocked into the trees, a character will get hit in the head with a coconut. In the dark version's snakes, a skull replaces it.
- This arena also appears as a stage for Deception's Puzzle Kombat mode.
[edit] Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks
- The Ice Falls: The arena consists of a frozen landscape and waterfalls, with a bridge going from one end of the arena to the other, where the kombatants begin.
- The Kombat Crag: This Arena is a lot like the Soul Chamber, with souls flying around everywhere, it may be the top of the soul tombs, where Shang Tsung keeps the souls, some souls are escaping through cracks, so this area may be the rooftop aftermath, after the Shaolin monks, Liu Kang and Kung Lao destroyed the soul trap.
- Sacred Dojo: This arena is possibly used for training Shao Kahn's army. The location of Dojo is assumed to be Outworld. This arena made its debut in Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks, and it's only entry is through the survival mode.
[edit] Mortal Kombat: Armageddon
Arenas denoted with asterisks are primarily arenas to battle a character one-on-one in the game's Konquest mode, commonly referred to as "Konquest arenas". They never appear during arcade or versus matches; although they are selectable to fight in on the character select screen. All Konquest mode arenas lack any interactive elements.
- Arctika*: Arctika is home to the Lin Kuei Temple. It is later revealed in Mortal Kombat: Armageddon to be the former temple of Delia.
- Botan Jungle*: This is where Taven began his quest in Konquest Mode, the temple of Argus located here, in the Konquest Mode, Taven fought the Black Dragon clan outside the temple and defeated their leader Kabal. Also, this arena appears as a track in the mini-game Motor Kombat.
- Chamber of Daegon*: This is where the Red Dragon, Caro, is imprisoned and forced to open portals for the Red Dragon clan serving under Daegon.
- Edenian Ruins*: This arena is located in Edenia. In the story, it acts as a trigger to the activation of Blaze's pyramid.
- Krimson Forest*: The home base of the Red Dragon Clan, led by Daegon, is hidden here. Fujin fought Taven here in the game's Konquest mode.
- Lin Kuei Palace*: It is the inside of the Temple as shown in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance. After her attempt to steal the Dragon Medallion, Frost was sealed here in an icy tomb. She was accidentally awakened by Taven, who was searching the temple for traces of his mother's temple. This area was shortly after invaded by the forces of Noob-Smoke. Curiously, although not containing any interactive elements, the versus screens depicting this arena shows a row of spikes on the ceiling (a reference to the spikes that the player must knock the Brotherhood members into in the Konquest version of the room, before the fight with Noob-Smoke), hinting that an earlier render of the arena may had retained the death trap it had in the Konquest version.
- Lumber Mill: This arena features a wood chipper death trap that players can knock their opponents into.
- Netherrealm Cliffs*: The largest arena in the game, with no death traps or destructable features. Taven was teleported here by Caro, to search for his brother Daegon.
- Outworld Spire: The Spire is located in Outworld, at Shao Kahn's fortress. Fighting takes place on the landing of a staircase that wraps around the edge of a circular tower. If a fighter is knocked down the steps, they will fall the next landing, which is identical to the first. If a fighter is knocked off the balcony toward the center of the tower, the fighter will fall to their death and land on a sharp hanging lamp.
- Red Dragon Caverns*: This arena was the underground fortress of the Red Dragon, where draconic hybrids were created by splicing human and dragon DNA.
- Reiko's War Room* (Also referred to as "Reiko's Map Room" or "General Reiko's (War/Map) Room"): This is part of Shao Kahn's fortress, where his general Reiko kept maps of the realms. Taven entered this room in the game's Konquest mode, where he battled Reiko and his guards.
- Shao Kahn's Throne Room*: Shao Kahn held rule over his minions here. Taven stumbled upon a meeting of Shao Kahn's with Raiden, Onaga, and the Deadly Alliance. They escaped into a portal, leaving Taven to battle Raiden.
- Shinnok's Spire*: The fallen Elder God Shinnok took residence here. In Konquest Mode, Shinnok deceived Taven into clearing demons that were "overruning" the spire to help him regain his status as Elder God. Taven did not know Shinnok was evil. Shinnok's status is unknown, although he was shown as giving orders to Daegon.
- Shinnok's Throne Room*: This arena is located at the top of Shinnok's spire. Here, Taven fought Sheeva and Kintaro, who were attacking the spire. Shinnok teleported Taven to Outworld shortly after.
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Mortal Kombat • MKII • MK3 / Ultimate MK3 / MK Trilogy • MK4 / MK Gold • Deadly Alliance • Deception • Armageddon |
