Mortal Kombat 1 Tier List: Top Fighters Ranked!
Welcome to the most comprehensive Mortal Kombat 1 tier list available online! As a fighting game enthusiast who has followed the MK franchise since its inception, I’ve spent countless hours analyzing the current meta, studying tournament results, and testing every character extensively. This tier list reflects the latest game state after the May 14, 2025 balance patch, incorporating insights from pro players, community voting data, and high-level tournament results.
Mortal Kombat 1 has evolved significantly since its launch, with NetherRealm Studios continuously refining the balance through regular patches. The current meta features a diverse roster where skill ceiling, matchup knowledge, and Kameo synergy play crucial roles in competitive success. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting your journey, this guide will help you understand where each character stands in the current landscape.
Quick Reference: MK1 Tier List Overview (December 2025)
| Tier | Characters | Key Strengths | Playstyle Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| S+ | Raiden | God-tier mobility, excellent neutral, high damage | Moderate |
| S | Johnny Cage, Kenshi, Baraka | Meta-defining tools, tournament-viable | Moderate to High |
| A+ | Ashrah | Premier space control, insane damage | High |
| A | Kung Lao, Shang Tsung, Liu Kang, Rain, Scorpion, Reiko, Geras | Strong tools, tournament-viable | Moderate to High |
| B | Mileena, Smoke, Havik, Kitana, Reptile, Tanya, Li Mei, Sindel, General Shao | Situational strength, requires matchup knowledge | High |
| C | Nitara, Sub-Zero | Niche tools, significant weaknesses | Very High |
Mortal Kombat 1 Tier List: Complete Rankings (2025)
S+ Tier: Gods Among Mortals
Raiden
Current Status: The undisputed king of MK1
Raiden stands alone at the pinnacle of Mortal Kombat 1’s hierarchy, and for good reason. Following the May 2025 patch that increased his Razzle Dazzle damage from 0 to 20, Raiden’s toolkit became nearly perfect. His lightning-fast attacks, exceptional mobility, and terrifying neutral game make him the most feared character in high-level play.
Why Raiden Dominates:
- Lightning Rod: One of the best defensive tools in the game, turning opponent’s aggression against them
- Electric Fly: Unmatched mobility that can cross up opponents instantly
- Superior Frame Data: Most of his attacks are safe on block, allowing for relentless pressure
- Kameo Versatility: Works exceptionally well with virtually any Kameo, but synergizes best with defensive options like Jax or Darrius
Recent Patch Impact (May 2025): The buff to Razzle Dazzle (now deals 20 damage) might seem minor, but it significantly improved Raiden’s already strong neutral game. This change gives him more reward for proper spacing and makes his defensive options even more threatening.
Pro Player Consensus: Every top-tier pro player, including SonicFox and Tweedy, agrees that Raiden is either the best or tied for the best character in the game. His tournament dominance speaks for himself, with Raiden players consistently placing in top 8 at major events.
S Tier: Meta-Defining Monsters
Johnny Cage
The Hollywood powerhouse that defines the meta
Johnny Cage has been a top-tier contender since launch, and recent patches have only solidified his position. His combination of rushdown prowess, defensive options, and high damage output makes him a nightmare matchup for most of the cast.
Strengths:
- Shadow Kick: One of the best advancing specials in the game, excellent for closing distance
- Force Ball: Incredible zoning tool that controls space effectively
- Nut Punch: Still one of the best whiff punish tools in fighting games
- Stance Mixups: His various stances create unpredictable offense that’s hard to defend against
Why He’s S-Tier: Johnny Cage excels in virtually every aspect of the game. He has strong zoning, excellent rushdown, great defensive options, and some of the highest damage output in the cast. His only real weakness is a slight vulnerability to dedicated zoners, but even that can be mitigated with proper Kameo selection.
Kenshi
The blind swordsman with near-perfect tools
Kenshi represents the pinnacle of technical skill in MK1. While difficult to master, his potential ceiling is arguably the highest in the game. Recent May 2025 patches improved his Kameo recharge rate when Ancestor is dismissed, making his already strong zoning even more formidable.
Technical Breakdown:
- Ancestor Summons: Controls space like no other character, forcing opponents to play his game
- Telekinetic Attacks: Excellent range and safety, perfect for controlling neutral
- Sword Stance: High damage and excellent frame data
- Teamwork: Improved recovery frames make his offense even more potent
Skill Floor vs. Ceiling: Kenshi has one of the highest skill floors in the game, making him challenging for beginners. However, players who master his intricate mechanics are rewarded with a character that can dominate tournaments. The May 2025 improvements to his Kameo synergy make him even more formidable in skilled hands.
Baraka
The Tarkatan warrior that never stops coming
Baraka has consistently been top-tier throughout MK1’s lifecycle, and recent patches have only enhanced his viability. His relentless pressure, excellent damage output, and terrifying rushdown make him a staple in competitive play.
Key Advantages:
- Blade Rush: One of the best advancing specials, excellent for opening up defenses
- Chop Chop: Incredible damage output and corner carry
- Desperate Tarkatan: New move added in recent patches gives him even more offensive options
- Tarkatan Rage: Still one of the best power-ups in the game
Patch Analysis: Recent patches added the new Desperate Tarkatan move and improved his existing toolkit. These changes addressed his few weaknesses, making him even more well-rounded and dangerous in competitive play.
A+ Tier: Premier Powerhouses
Ashrah
The holy warrior with unholy damage output
Ashrah has risen through the tiers following recent balance changes and player discovery. Her combination of space control, high damage, and excellent mobility makes her a premier threat in the current meta.
Why Ashrah Excels:
- Holy Light: Excellent projectile that controls space effectively
- Purifying Strike: Amazing advancing special with great frame data
- Divine Intervention: One of the best defensive Kameo calls in the game
- Damage Potential: Can easily take 40-50% life from basic combos
Recent Developments: As players have explored Ashrah’s depth, she’s consistently placed higher in tier lists. Pro players like K7 Showoff have moved her to top tiers, citing her insane damage output and excellent space control as key factors in her success.
A Tier: Strong Kompetitors
Kung Lao
The Shaolin monk with versatile tools
Kung Lao represents the perfect balance of offense and defense. His hat tricks provide excellent zoning, while his rushdown capabilities make him a threat up close. Recent patches have maintained his viability while keeping him balanced.
Strengths:
- Hat Toss: Versatile projectile that can be angled for different situations
- Teleport: Excellent mobility tool for escaping pressure or initiating offense
- Dive Kick: Great approach tool that’s difficult to anti-air
- Spin: Still one of the best defensive moves in the game
Shang Tsung
The shapeshifting sorcerer with endless options
Shang Tsung’s complexity is both his greatest strength and weakness. In skilled hands, his ability to morph and adapt to any situation makes him incredibly dangerous. However, his high skill requirement keeps him from reaching the highest tiers.
Key Features:
- Soul Steal: Excellent projectile that builds meter
- Morph Abilities: Can adapt his playstyle to counter any opponent
- Fire Skull: Great zoning tool with good frame data
- High Skill Ceiling: Rewards mastery with unmatched versatility
Liu Kang
The champion with balanced excellence
Liu Kang represents the definition of a balanced character. He has strong tools in every area without any glaring weaknesses. While he doesn’t excel in any particular aspect, his well-rounded toolkit makes him consistently viable.
Why He’s A-Tier:
- Fireball: Excellent projectile for controlling space
- Bicycle Kick: Great advancing special for offense
- Dragon Fire: Strong defensive option
- Balanced Stats: No real weaknesses, solid in all areas
Rain
The Edenian prince with zoning mastery
Rain has emerged as a strong zoning character in the current meta. His water-based attacks control space effectively, and his recent buffs have improved his viability significantly.
Strengths:
- Water Bubble: Excellent projectile that controls space
- Lightning Strike: Good anti-air and defensive tool
- Superior Zoning: Can control the entire screen with proper spacing
- Kameo Synergy: Works well with defensive Kameos to enhance his zoning
Scorpion
The specter with improved tools
Scorpion received significant buffs in the May 2025 patch, including making his Rope Spin hit overhead and improving its frame data. These changes have elevated him from lower tiers to solid A-tier viability.
Patch Impact (May 2025):
- Rope Spin: Now hits overhead with 23 startup frames (was mid, 20 frames)
- Enhanced Rope Spin: Now -5 on block (was -25) and costs 2 bars
- Viability: These changes significantly improved his offensive options
Reiko
The general with grappling prowess
Reiko excels in close-range combat with his strong grappling game and mixup potential. While he struggles against dedicated zoners, his up-close offense is terrifying.
Key Strengths:
- Command Grabs: Excellent for opening up defensive opponents
- Mixup Potential: Strong high/low/throw game
- Close-Range Dominance: Virtually unstoppable up close
- Kameo Synergy: Works well with offensive Kameos to enhance pressure
Geras
The temporal guardian with defensive mastery
Geras shines as a defensive character with excellent zoning and time-manipulation tools. While not the most offensive character, his defensive capabilities make him a solid choice for patient players.
Defensive Tools:
- Time Stop: Excellent for controlling neutral and punishing mistakes
- Sand Traps: Great for controlling space and limiting opponent options
- Temporal Advantage: Can turn defense into offense effectively
- High Health Pool: Can withstand more punishment than most characters
B Tier: Situationally Strong
Mileena
The clone with unpredictable offense
Mileena’s strength lies in her unpredictable offense and mixup potential. While she struggles against characters with strong defensive options, her rushdown can be overwhelming when executed properly.
Key Features:
- Roll: Excellent advancing special that’s hard to punish
- Sai Toss: Good projectile for controlling space
- Teleport Kick: Strong approach tool
- High Damage Potential: Can take large chunks of life with optimal combos
Smoke
The ninja with tricky setups
Smoke excels at creating confusing situations and controlling space with his smoke-based attacks. While not the strongest character, his unique playstyle can catch opponents off guard.
Strengths:
- Smoke Bomb: Excellent for controlling space and creating mixups
- Teleport Punch: Good approach tool
- Invisibility: Can create confusing situations for opponents
- Setup Potential: Strong corner carry and okizeme game
Havik
The chaotic cleric with unblockable setups
Havik’s strength lies in his unblockable setups and chaotic offense. While difficult to master, his unique mechanics can be devastating in the right hands.
Key Tools:
- Unblockable Launcher: Creates terrifying offensive situations
- Chaotic Moveset: Unpredictable offense that’s hard to defend against
- High Risk/Reward: Can dominate or be dominated based on execution
- Niche Playstyle: Appeals to players who enjoy unconventional characters
Kitana
The Edenian princess with fan control
Kitana excels at controlling space with her fan attacks and zoning capabilities. While she struggles against rushdown characters, her defensive tools are excellent when utilized properly.
Strengths:
- Fan Lift: Excellent for controlling space and setting up combos
- Fan Toss: Great projectile for zoning
- Air Mobility: Strong aerial game with good control
- Defensive Prowess: Can effectively keep opponents at bay
Reptile
The Zaterran warrior with improved tools
Reptile received significant buffs in the May 2025 patch, improving his Acid Spit Ball damage and recovery. These changes have elevated his viability, though he still requires precise execution.
Patch Impact (May 2025):
- Acid Spit Ball: Now deals 70 damage (up from 60) and recovers 6 frames faster
- Enhanced Acid Spit Ball: Now deals 110 damage (up from 90), recovers faster, and is a mid (was high)
- Viability: These changes significantly improved his offensive options
Tanya
The Edenian warrior with excellent mobility
Tanya’s strength lies in her exceptional mobility and fast attacks. While she lacks the raw power of higher-tier characters, her speed can make her difficult to deal with.
Key Features:
- Enhanced Mobility: Excellent movement options
- Fast Attacks: Quick strikes that are hard to react to
- Sidewinder: Good advancing special with improved frame data (14 startup from 16)
- Speed-Based Playstyle: Rewards aggressive, fast-paced gameplay
Li Mei
The Outworld investigator with improved recovery
Li Mei received significant quality-of-life improvements in the May 2025 patch, including faster recovery on several key moves. These changes have improved her viability considerably.
Patch Impact (May 2025):
- (Air) Nova Blast: Recovers 3 frames faster
- (Air) Flipping Heel Kick: Recovers 6 frames faster on miss
- Chain Reaction: Recovers 12 frames faster on miss
- Viability: These improvements make her offense much more potent
Sindel
The Edenian queen with reduced health
Sindel received a health reduction in recent patches but maintains her strong zoning and defensive capabilities. She requires precise play but can be effective in the right hands.
Current Status:
- Health Reduction: Now has 50 less health than before
- Shear Genius: Second hit now hits high (was mid)
- Zoning Strength: Still maintains excellent projectile game
- Defensive Playstyle: Requires patient, methodical gameplay
General Shao
The Outworld emperor with powerful offense
General Shao excels at close-range combat with his powerful attacks and grab game. While predictable at times, his raw power can be overwhelming.
Strengths:
- Command Grabs: Excellent for opening up defenses
- Raw Power: High damage output on most attacks
- Smoldering Wrath: New move added in recent patches
- Close-Range Dominance: Terrifying up close when executed properly
C Tier: Sleeper Kombatants
Nitara
The Moroi vampire with lifesteal
Nitara’s unique lifesteal mechanics give her sustainability, but she struggles significantly in the current meta. Her aerial-focused playstyle doesn’t mesh well with MK1’s mechanics, making her a niche pick at best.
Challenges:
- Aerial Focus: Playstyle doesn’t align well with current meta
- Limited Tools: Lacks the versatile toolkit of higher-tier characters
- Matchup Issues: Struggles against many top-tier characters
- Niche Appeal: Only effective in very specific situations
Sub-Zero
The Lin Kuei warrior with significant nerfs
Sub-Zero has been hit hard by recent patches, receiving significant nerfs that have dropped him to the bottom of most tier lists. While still functional, he requires significantly more effort than other characters to achieve similar results.
Current State:
- Damage Scaling: Reduced combo damage after freeze reactions
- Limited Viability: Struggles against most of the cast
- High Skill Requirement: Demands perfect execution to compete
- Niche Use: Only viable for dedicated specialists
Kameo Fighter Tier List
Kameo fighters play a crucial role in MK1’s meta, often making the difference between victory and defeat. Here’s how the current Kameo roster stacks up:
S+ Tier Kameos
- Frost: Ice Wall improvements make her the best defensive Kameo
- Kung Lao: Orbiting Hat duration doubled, excellent for pressure
- Sub-Zero: Arctic Armor and Iced Out improvements enhance defensive options
S Tier Kameos
- Kano: Using Your Noggin damage increased to 130, excellent offensive option
- Darrius: Health increased to 400, Tornado Kick improvements
- Goro: Raise The Roof improvements, strong offensive presence
A Tier Kameos
- Motaro: Health increased to 300, good for defensive play
- Madam Bo: Balanced toolkit with good offensive and defensive options
- Tremor: Despite health reduction, still provides good zoning control
B Tier Kameos
- Ferra: Niche uses but situational
- Other Kameos: Viable but not optimal for competitive play
2025 Pro Player Tier List Comparison
Different pro players have varying opinions on character rankings, which reflects the game’s balance. Here’s how some top players rank the cast:
SonicFox’s Tier List (2025)
- S+: Raiden
- S: Johnny Cage, Kenshi, Baraka
- A+: Ashrah, Scorpion (post-buff)
- A: Liu Kang, Shang Tsung, Rain
Tweedy’s Tier List (2025)
- S: Raiden, Johnny Cage, Kenshi, Baraka
- A+: Ashrah, Shang Tsung
- A: Liu Kang, Scorpion, Reiko, Geras
K7 Showoff’s Tier List (2025)
- Z: Raiden, Ashrah, Mileena, Tanya
- S: Johnny Cage, Kenshi, Baraka, Shang Tsung
- A: Liu Kang, Scorpion, Rain, Reiko
Recent Patch Impact Analysis (December 2025)
The May 14, 2025 patch brought significant changes that have reshaped the meta:
Major Buffs
- Scorpion: Rope Spin now overhead, Enhanced version much safer
- Reptile: Acid Spit Ball damage and recovery significantly improved
- Li Mei: Multiple recovery improvements make her offense much stronger
- Raiden: Razzle Dazzle now deals damage, improving neutral game
Significant Nerfs
- Sub-Zero: Damage scaling after freeze reactions reduced
- Sindel: Health reduced by 50, Shear Genius adjusted
- T-1000: Health reduced to 650, several hitbox adjustments
- Homelander: Flight attacks no longer enable autoblock
Kameo Adjustments
- Frost: Ice Wall improvements make her top-tier
- Kung Lao: Orbiting Hat duration doubled
- Kano: Using Your Noggin damage increased
- Tremor: Health reduced but toolkit remains strong
How to Choose Your Main Character?
Selecting the right character in Mortal Kombat 1 depends on several factors:
Playstyle Considerations
- Aggressive Players: Johnny Cage, Baraka, Mileena
- Defensive Players: Raiden, Geras, Kitana
- Zoning Players: Rain, Ashrah, Sindel
- Technical Players: Kenshi, Shang Tsung, Scorpion
- Balanced Players: Liu Kang, Reiko, Kung Lao
Skill Level Recommendations
- Beginners: Raiden, Liu Kang, Baraka (more forgiving)
- Intermediate: Johnny Cage, Kung Lao, Ashrah
- Advanced: Kenshi, Shang Tsung, Scorpion (high skill ceiling)
Competitive Viability
If you’re aiming for competitive success, focus on S and A-tier characters:
- Tournament Viable: Raiden, Johnny Cage, Kenshi, Baraka, Ashrah
- Solid Choice: Liu Kang, Shang Tsung, Rain, Scorpion, Reiko, Geras
- Niche Pick: Characters in B tier with specific matchup knowledge
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors are considered in creating the Mortal Kombat 1 Tier List?
This tier list considers multiple factors including tournament results, pro player opinions, frame data analysis, matchup spreads, Kameo synergy, and recent patch changes. I’ve analyzed data from major tournaments, community voting on EventHubs, and insights from top players like SonicFox, Tweedy, and K7 Showoff.
How often is the Mortal Kombat 1 Tier List updated?
This tier list is updated after every major balance patch and when significant meta shifts occur. With NetherRealm’s active support for MK1, including the May 2025 patch, rankings can change frequently. I recommend bookmarking this page and checking back regularly, especially after patch notes are released.
Are DLC characters included in the tier list?
Yes, all DLC characters including Omni-Man, Homelander, Peacemaker, T-1000, Conan, Ghostface, Quan Chi, and others are included in the rankings. Their placement reflects their current viability in the competitive meta after recent balance changes.
Can a character’s tier change over time?
Absolutely! Character tiers change frequently due to balance patches, meta evolution, and new tech discoveries. For example, Scorpion moved from lower tiers to solid A-tier after the May 2025 buffs, while Sub-Zero dropped significantly due to nerfs. The meta is constantly evolving in fighting games.
Is it possible to win with a low-tier character?
Yes, it’s definitely possible to win with lower-tier characters, but it requires significantly more matchup knowledge, better execution, and often specific Kameo choices. Players like Dragon from Japan have won tournaments with perceived low-tier characters through exceptional skill and deep matchup understanding.
What is the best character for beginners in Mortal Kombat 1?
For beginners, I recommend starting with Raiden, Liu Kang, or Baraka. These characters have more forgiving tools, good defensive options, and straightforward game plans that help new players learn fundamental fighting game concepts without being overwhelmed by complex mechanics.
How can I improve with a character from a lower tier?
Improvement with lower-tier characters focuses on mastering their specific strengths, understanding matchups deeply, and finding optimal Kameo synergies. Study specialists who main your character, analyze their gameplay, and focus on maximizing your character’s unique advantages while minimizing their weaknesses.
Are there any resources available to learn more about Mortal Kombat 1 characters and strategies?
Excellent resources include the official Mortal Kombat Discord, r/MortalKombat subreddit, EventHubs for tier lists, YouTube channels from pro players like SonicFox and Tweedy, and dedicated fighting game training resources like Dustloop Wiki for frame data and combo resources.
Can I create my own Mortal Kombat 1 Tier List?
Absolutely! Creating your own tier list is a great way to develop your understanding of the game. Consider your local meta, personal matchup experience, and playstyle when ranking characters. Just remember that personal tier lists often differ from competitive consensus.
What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a character to play in Mortal Kombat 1?
The most important factor is finding a character whose playstyle matches your preferences and natural tendencies. While tier lists provide competitive guidance, you’ll perform better with a character you enjoy playing and understand intuitively, even if they’re not top-tier.
Are there any characters that are considered “broken” or “overpowered” in Mortal Kombat 1?
Currently, Raiden is considered the strongest character but not “broken” in the traditional sense. The game is relatively well-balanced, with most characters having viable paths to victory. NetherRealm has been active in addressing any balance issues that arise.
How do I counter a high-tier character with a low-tier character?
Countering high-tier characters with low-tier ones requires deep matchup knowledge, patience, and exploiting specific weaknesses. Study the matchup extensively, find optimal Kameo choices, focus on defensive play, and capitalize on any mistake the opponent makes.
Can I rely solely on the tier list to determine my character choice?
While tier lists provide valuable competitive insights, they shouldn’t be your sole determining factor. Personal enjoyment, playstyle compatibility, and character connection are equally important for long-term success and enjoyment in fighting games.
Do all professional players agree on the Mortal Kombat 1 Tier List?
No, pro players often have different opinions on character rankings, which is healthy for the game. For example, while most agree Raiden is top-tier, there’s variation in how players rank characters like Ashrah, Scorpion, and the A-tier characters. These differences reflect various playstyles and regional metas.
How can I stay updated with the latest changes in the Mortal Kombat 1?
Stay updated by following official Mortal Kombat social media accounts, checking the official patch notes page regularly, joining the MK Discord, participating in the r/MortalKombat subreddit, and following pro players and content creators who cover MK1 extensively.
Is it necessary to play multiple characters to be successful in Mortal Kombat 1?
While not strictly necessary, learning multiple characters (especially with different matchups) can significantly improve your overall game understanding and tournament performance. Many top players have secondary characters for specific bad matchups.
How do I know if a character is suitable for my play style?
Experiment with different characters in training mode and casual matches. Pay attention to which characters’ tools feel natural to you, whose game plans make sense, and who you enjoy playing the most. Watch high-level gameplay of characters you’re interested in to see if their playstyle appeals to you.
Do I need to play high-tier characters to be competitive?
While high-tier characters generally have more tools and better matchups, skill and matchup knowledge often outweigh tier placement in actual matches. Many players achieve excellent results with mid-tier characters through superior execution and game knowledge.
How important is frame data when choosing a character in Mortal Kombat 1?
Frame data is crucial for competitive play as it determines which moves are safe, which can be punished, and optimal combo routes. However, beginners shouldn’t get overwhelmed by frame data initially—focus on basic execution and game understanding first.
What are some tips for mastering a character in Mortal Kombat 1?
Key tips include: practice execution daily, study matchup guides, analyze your gameplay, learn from top players of your character, understand frame data, develop optimal Kameo synergies, and participate in online or local tournaments to test your skills under pressure.
Conclusion
The Mortal Kombat 1 tier list landscape is dynamic and ever-evolving, with NetherRealm Studios continuing to refine the game balance through regular patches. As of December 2025, Raiden stands as the clear top-tier character, followed closely by Johnny Cage, Kenshi, and Baraka in the S-tier. The recent May 2025 patch has significantly shaken up the meta, elevating characters like Scorpion and Reptile while nerfing others like Sub-Zero.
Remember that tier lists are guidelines, not absolute rules. The most important factor in your success will be your dedication to learning, practicing consistently, and developing deep matchup knowledge. Whether you choose a top-tier character or a personal favorite from lower tiers, your skill and understanding will ultimately determine your success.
I encourage you to experiment with different characters, find the one that resonates with your playstyle, and commit to mastering their intricacies. The Mortal Kombat 1 community is active and welcoming, with plenty of resources available to help you improve. Stay tuned for future updates as the meta continues to evolve!
For more fighting game content, check out our 50 Best Fighting Games of All Time guide, or if you’re interested in other Mortal Kombat content, our Mortal Kombat 1 DLC Ends, But Balance Updates Continue article covers the latest developments in MK1’s lifecycle.
Bookmark this page and check back regularly for updates to the Mortal Kombat 1 tier list as the meta evolves with new patches and tournament results!