Is Mortal Kombat 1 banned in any countries?

Is Mortal Kombat 1 banned in any countries?
Nico Vergara Updated on by

Video Gamer is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Prices subject to change. Learn more

Is Mortal Kombat 1 banned in any countries? NetherRealm Studios’ storied fighting game franchise has often been notorious for its gore and excessive violence. So naturally, fans are now wondering whether some countries have banned it due to these graphic displays of disembowelment and flying viscera.

Fortunately, we’re here to give you the answer to your question, so you won’t have to search any longer. Before we get into it, though, we suggest checking out our Mortal Kombat 1 character list, Mortal Kombat 1 voice actors, and Mortal Kombat 1 fatalities so you can learn more about the game. However, if you want to know which countries MK1 is banned in, keep reading to find out.

What countries is Mortal Kombat 1 banned in?

Yes, Mortal Kombat 1 is banned in three countries, which consist of the following:

  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Mainland China

These countries have historically had strict laws regarding the portrayal of violence and gore in media. And since NetherRealm Studios’ fighting game franchise has often been generous with its displays of blood and guts in their games, these nations have predictably banned the latest entry once again following their similar decision with MK11.

According to the South Korean Game Rating and Administration Committee, Mortal Kombat 1 currently has a rating of “Refusal to classify,” meaning that the excessive violence within has once again prevented the latest game from being released in this country. In addition, fans on Reddit have also confirmed its prolonged ban in Japan as many continue to complain about the nation’s strict guidelines. Similarly, mainland China’s uncompromising laws on displays of blood and violence mean that the MK series won’t be making an appearance there any time soon.

This time, though, it seems some countries like Indonesia and Ukraine are set to allow releases for Mortal Kombat 1 following their refusal of the previous installment. However, this hasn’t been confirmed by these nations’ actual game rating boards, so you’ll need to take this information with a grain of salt for the time being.

That covers all you need to know about the countries where MK1 is banned. If you want to learn more about the game, check out our guides on how to do a fatality in Mortal Kombat 1, Mortal Kombat 1 Denuvo, and how to get the free Mortal Kombat 1 PS5 upgrade as well.