mortal kombat

 "The Mortal Kombat franchise has always been more than just a fighting game series—it’s a cultural phenomenon that has shaped gaming, movies, and even pop culture for over three decades. As 2025 winds down, the Mortal Kombat universe has seen both exciting developments and heartbreaking losses. Let’s dive into the latest news, updates, and stories surrounding this legendary franchise."

 The Passing of Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa

One of the most emotional pieces of Mortal Kombat news this year was the death of Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, the actor who immortalized the villain Shang Tsung in the 1995 Mortal Kombat film. Tagawa passed away at the age of 75 in Santa Barbara, California, due to complications from a stroke.

Tagawa’s portrayal of Shang Tsung was iconic—his chilling delivery of “Your soul is mine!” became one of the most memorable lines in video game movie history. Fans across the globe mourned his passing, remembering not just his Mortal Kombat role but also his long career in Hollywood, which included appearances in The Last Emperor, Tekken, and voice work in Mortal Kombat 11. His death is a reminder of how deeply Mortal Kombat has been intertwined with real-world talent and artistry.

 
Mortal Kombat 2 Movie Delayed

On the cinematic front, Mortal Kombat 2, the sequel to the 2021 reboot, has hit a delay. Originally scheduled for October 2025, the release has now been pushed to May 15, 2026. Directed by Simon McQuoid, the film will feature Karl Urban as Johnny Cage alongside returning stars like Ludi Lin, Jessica McNamee, Joe Taslim, and Hiroyuki Sanada.

The delay reportedly comes in part due to Warner Bros. shifting focus after the massive success of its Superman project. While disappointing for fans, the extra time may allow the filmmakers to polish the movie further. The sequel is expected to pit Earthrealm’s champions against Shao Khan, promising high-stakes battles and fan-service moments.

 
Mortal Kombat 1 Joins Xbox Game Pass

For gamers, there’s good news: Mortal Kombat 1, the 2023 reboot of the franchise, has officially joined Xbox Game Pass in December 2025. This means millions of players can now experience NetherRealm’s bold reimagining of the series at no extra cost.

While Mortal Kombat 1 didn’t reach the commercial heights of Mortal Kombat 11, it introduced fresh mechanics, a new timeline, and reworked character arcs. Its arrival on Game Pass could breathe new life into the title, expanding its player base and keeping the franchise relevant in the competitive fighting game scene.

 
Leaks and Surprises for 2025

Adding to the buzz, a Mortal Kombat leak earlier this year teased a surprise update for fans. While details remain scarce, speculation ranges from new DLC characters to crossover content. Mortal Kombat has a long history of surprising players with guest fighters—from Freddy Krueger to Terminator—and fans are eager to see what’s next.

Given NetherRealm’s track record, it wouldn’t be shocking if 2025’s surprise involves a major expansion or even hints at the next installment in the series. With Mortal Kombat 11 having set franchise records and Mortal Kombat 1 experimenting with a reboot, the studio may be preparing another bold move.

 
The Legacy Continues
Despite the ups and downs, Mortal Kombat remains one of the most enduring franchises in gaming. Its mix of brutal combat, rich lore, and iconic characters has kept fans engaged for decades. The passing of Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa reminds us of the human artistry behind the franchise, while the upcoming movie and game updates show that Mortal Kombat is far from slowing down.

As 2026 approaches, fans can look forward to the delayed but highly anticipated Mortal Kombat 2 film, continued support for Mortal Kombat 1, and whatever surprises NetherRealm has in store. Whether through games, movies, or cultural impact, Mortal Kombat continues to prove that it’s not just about fatalities—it’s about legacy.