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Companies & Studios

NetherRealm Studios

Mortal Kombat reborn

NetherRealm Studios rose from Midway's ashes to revitalise Mortal Kombat and create Injustice, establishing the modern template for story-driven fighting games.

playstation-3playstation-4xbox-360xbox-onepc developerfightingwarner-bros 2010–present

Overview

From Midway’s collapse came fighting game renaissance. NetherRealm formed around Ed Boon and the Mortal Kombat team after Warner Bros. acquired the franchise. The 2011 reboot proved the series could evolve, adding substantial story modes and refined mechanics. Injustice applied the formula to DC superheroes. Both franchises delivered consistent quality.

Fast facts

  • Founded: 2010.
  • Founder: Ed Boon.
  • Parent: Warner Bros. Interactive.
  • Location: Chicago, Illinois.

Mortal Kombat revival

TitleYearAchievement
Mortal Kombat (2011)2011Series reboot
Mortal Kombat X2015New generation
Mortal Kombat 112019Story conclusion
MK12023Timeline reset

Injustice series

TitleYearFeature
Injustice2013DC fighting
Injustice 22017Gear system

Design innovations

FeatureImplementation
Story modeCinematic campaigns
Tutorial depthLearning tools
Roster varietyGuest characters
Variation systemCharacter customisation

Industry impact

AchievementNote
Story standardFighting game narratives
Crossover successGuest characters
Competitive sceneTournament support
SalesMulti-million sellers

See also