If you’re wondering how to block in Mortal Kombat 1, the answer isn’t as simple as holding a button anymore. The new up block and Flawless Block features add a lot of variety to your defensive game that players can incorporate into their playstyles.
Mortal Kombat 1 isn’t just a reboot of the series' story; the game also brings with it several new additions and changes to the gameplay that make it a fresh new experience. One area where the game adds upon the previous entry is the blocking system.
For more on the game, make sure to also learn all the basic controls in Mortal Kombat 1. We've also got a full list of voice actors, plus details on how to get early access.
How to block in Mortal Kombat 1
Like previous Mortal Kombat entries, the new Mortal Kombat 1 does include a basic block button. To initiate a block in Mortal Kombat 1, you need to press the R2 button on the PlayStation or the RT button on the Xbox.
You can initiate a low block by holding down on the D-pad while pressing the block button as well. Your opponent can be unpredictable, so your blocks need to be on point as well.
Note that blocking only mitigates the damage you would otherwise take, and still deals some chip damage. It's a good defensive tool, but not the solution to every problem. That said, Mortal Kombat 1 also adds a new kind of block to the mix.
How does up block work in Mortal Kombat 1?
Mortal Kombat 1’s new ‘up block’ feature is a game-changer. With it, players can actively protect themselves from fierce aerial attacks and complex air combos by adopting a diagonal block stance. Simply hold the up button while performing a block, and your character will change their stance to the up block.
This isn't just a minor tweak; it's a significant leap that promises to redefine how you experience the heat of battle in Mortal Kombat 1. This change comes at a pivotal time, as Mortal Kombat 1 is ramping up the ante with an intensified focus on air combat, a step up from its predecessors. Now, instead of constantly retreating from aerial attacks by your opponent, you can stand your ground, strategise, and fight back without a hint of hesitation.
How does Flawless Block work in Mortal Kombat 1?
Mortal Kombat 1’s Flawless Block activates when you block your enemy’s attack at the right time during a few specific frames of the attack. A Flawless Block gives you a quicker recovery time, allowing you to turn the tables with a counter attack on your opponent and potentially land a string of attacks. However, unlike Mortal Kombat 11, there are no follow-up attacks attached to the Flawless Block.
It also minimises chip damage to a great extent, keeping your opponent's meter build-up in check. This makes the Flawless Block a perfect counter to spam-heavy characters with telegraphed attack animations. The meter buildup negation is also crucial in matchups where your opponent is spamming projectiles from a distance to build up their meter.
There you have it, a quick rundown on how to block in Mortal Kombat 1. Be sure to learn how to perform brutalities and check all the pre order bonuses.