Mortal Kombat 1 Kameo Fighters: New mechanic explained

Matthew "MJP" Pryor

Matthew "MJP" Pryor

Kameo Fighters will add a unique element to Mortal Kombat 1’s gameplay.

The wait is over for dedicated Mortal Kombat fans after four years without a new title. NetherRealm Studios unveiled the latest series entry and reboot, Mortal Kombat 1. The developers have already divulged many details, including a new gameplay element. Mortal Kombat 1’s new Kameo Fighters mechanic is unique to the series, and there are questions surrounding it. 

Here’s what we know about Mortal Kombat’s newest addition and some theories about what it could involve.

What are Mortal Kombat 1 Kameo Fighters?

The game’s official FAQ briefly explains the mechanic, but there is a lot of uncertainty. 

“Kameo Fighters are a unique roster of partner characters to assist during matches, creating expanded gameplay possibilities for players. These characters are chosen separately from the main roster of fighters.”

Based on the description, this reads as a mechanic that allows you to extend combos with assistance from Kameo Fighters. While not necessarily a “tag team” mode like Mortal Kombat 9, it seems similar. 

The FAQ indicates that these Kameo Fighters are separate from Mortal Kombat 1’s main roster. As a result, the possibilities are endless. However, some fans pointed out that fan favorites could become Kameo Fighters instead of playable characters. 

Another tag-like feature appeared in Mortal Kombat X as part of Quan Chi’s Summoner variation. He would summon a bat in the game to help extend combos and deal more damage. Additionally, you could use it as a defensive tool. 

The concerns with this new mechanic 

Many have claimed that Kameo Fighters in Mortal Kombat 1 could sideline many beloved characters. Ed Boon engaged in a Twitter conversation with user @lSuper_, who sported an Erron Black outfit. 

Ed Boon responded, saying, “Super Erron Black be busting out some Kameo Kombos this year.” He quickly clarified that this does not mean Erron Black would appear in Mortal Kombat 1 as a Kameo Fighter.

Naturally, there is uncertainty around fan favorites such as Ermac and Smoke becoming Kameo Fighters. We expect to learn more in the lead-up to Mortal Kombat 1. 

Stay tuned to esports.gg for more news and updates!