Impressions: Shaolin Monks

A number of years ago I was priveledged to see the Shaolin Monks perform in the United States, showing off their great physical prowess and discipline, and educating the audience on their ancient ways. Finally a video game has been made celebrating their brand of martial arts. Eh, not really. Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks gleefully celebrates the hey-day of the franchise by taking place between MK and MKII. Its a 3D brawler not unlike the mega-popular, mega-hard Ninja Gaiden. Take Lui Kang or Kung Lao beyond the tournament and button mash and combo and jump and special attack the shit out of an endless number of Outworld enemies. After the stunning opening FMV, I was totally ready for this game. While I booted up MKII the other night, it really shows its age and the most fun you can have is the cheese aspect of the story. MK:SM has that in spades! Voice acting isn't great, story is as expected so far, but what fun! Its a great pick-up and play game after the first hour. And after you beat it (or use a code...) you can select Sub Zero or Scorpion and do the game all over! Can't say so far its a must buy experience, but if you've got the means to rent it, I'd endorse that option. Mortal Kombat was a such a cultural touchstone of the 90s that there isn't a gamer out there who won't chuckle with every uppercut, "Superb!" announcement, and Fatality. MK started losing its audience a couple games ago, and Deception might not be for everyone, especially if they stopped playing after MK3. But I'm really looking forward to getting through Shaolin Monks. Its not a perfect game, and i'll wager the replay value isn't high unless you're playing Co-op, but it puts a smile on your face to see Raiden's blue apron and fighting those weird robed guys from the portal and hear Lui Kang jibbering howl as he does that bicycle kick. Review pending upon completion of the game...