Introduction
Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1) has taken the fighting game community by storm with its reimagined universe, courtesy of Liu Kang‘s time-bending actions. This latest installment in the legendary franchise boasts a revamped fighting system, exciting new game modes, and a roster of iconic characters presented in fresh and unexpected ways. As one of the most beloved characters in the series, Liu Kang‘s combos are essential for players looking to dominate the competition.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll dive deep into Liu Kang‘s combos in MK1, covering everything from basic strings to advanced corner combos and devastating Fatal Blow sequences. Whether you‘re a seasoned Mortal Kombat veteran or a newcomer to the series, this article will help you master Liu Kang‘s unique fighting style and take your gameplay to the next level.
The Fundamentals: Liu Kang‘s Basic Combos
Before we delve into the more complex aspects of Liu Kang‘s combo potential, let‘s start with the basics. These fundamental combos form the foundation of your offense and are essential for opening up your opponents and dealing consistent damage.
12~bf1 – This combo is a great starter that can be initiated from a quick jab (1) followed by a strong punch (2). Cancel the string into Liu Kang‘s Back Forward 1 special move for a solid ender. Other effective starters include f14, 22, 333, and f43.
22~db1 – Another simple yet effective combo, this one begins with two strong punches (22) and is canceled into Liu Kang‘s Dragon Kick (Down Back 1). Alternatively, start with 33 or f43 for some variation.
f43~bf3 – This combo showcases Liu Kang‘s agility and is perfect for catching opponents off-guard. Start with a Forward 4 and 3, then cancel into his Dragon‘s Roar (Back Forward 3) for a powerful finish. Mix it up by starting with 12, f14, 22, or 333.
Remember, mastering these basic combos is crucial for maintaining pressure on your opponent and setting up more advanced opportunities. Practice these combos until they become second nature, and you‘ll be well on your way to becoming a formidable Liu Kang player.
Elevating Your Game: Advanced Liu Kang Combos
Once you‘ve got a solid grasp on Liu Kang‘s basic combos, it‘s time to explore his more advanced options. These combos require precise timing and execution, but the payoff is well worth the effort.
f14~db4, dash, 333~bf3 – Start with a Forward 1 and 4, then cancel into Liu Kang‘s Low Dragon Kick (Down Back 4). Quickly dash in and follow up with a triple 3 string, canceling the final hit into Dragon‘s Roar (Back Forward 3). This combo deals significant damage and can be started with various openers like 333.
f14~db4, dash, b23, dash, 33~bf3 – Similar to the previous combo, but with an added Back 2 and 3 string after the dash. This variation extends the combo and allows for an extra dash to close the distance before finishing with 33 into Dragon‘s Roar.
f14~db4, dash, 333~bf1~u+k, j134 – A more advanced version of the first combo, this one incorporates Liu Kang‘s Dragon‘s Fire (Back Forward 1) canceled into his Bicycle Kick (Up + Kameo). As you land, input a Jump 1, 3, and 4 for an aerial follow-up. Combine this with Scorpion‘s Kameo for an extremely damaging sequence.
These advanced combos showcase Liu Kang‘s potential for extensive damage and highlight the importance of Kameo fighters in MK1. By weaving in Kameo attacks, you can create longer, more powerful combos that devastate your opponents.
Cornering Your Opponent: Liu Kang‘s Corner Combos
Corner combos are an essential aspect of any fighting game, and MK1 is no exception. When you‘ve got your opponent backed into a corner, Liu Kang‘s combo potential reaches new heights. Here are some of his most effective corner combos:
f14~db4, b23, 333~bf3 – Start with a Forward 1 and 4 canceled into Low Dragon Kick, then follow up with a Back 2 and 3 string. Finish with a triple 3 into Dragon‘s Roar. Amp up the damage by using an EX Dragon‘s Roar or adding an extra string of 333~bf3.
b23, 3, b23, 333~bf3 – This corner combo begins with a Back 2 and 3 string, followed by a single 3 and another Back 2 and 3. End with a triple 3 into Dragon‘s Roar. Experiment with EX variations, additional 3~bf3 strings, or incorporate Scorpion‘s Kameo for even more damage.
f43~bf3 ex, b23, 333~bf1~k, j134~bf1 – A powerful combo that starts with a Forward 4 and 3 into an EX Dragon‘s Roar. Follow up with a Back 2 and 3, then a triple 3 into Dragon‘s Fire canceled into Liu Kang‘s Bicycle Kick. As you land, input Jump 1, 3, and 4 followed by a final Dragon‘s Fire. This combo is highly effective and can be started with various openers like 12, 22, or 33.
Mastering these corner combos is key to maximizing your damage output and closing out rounds in style. Remember, practice makes perfect, so spend time in training mode until you can consistently execute these combos under pressure.
The Ultimate Finisher: Liu Kang‘s Fatal Blow Combos
Fatal Blows are the ultimate expression of a character‘s power in MK1, and Liu Kang‘s are no exception. These devastating moves can turn the tide of battle in an instant, and incorporating them into your combos is a surefire way to strike fear into your opponent‘s heart. Here are some of Liu Kang‘s most potent Fatal Blow combos:
starter~fb – Any combo starter can be canceled into Liu Kang‘s Fatal Blow for a simple yet effective finisher. This is a great option when you need to quickly close out a round or punish an opponent‘s mistake.
f14~db4, dash, 333~fb – Start with a Forward 1 and 4 into Low Dragon Kick, dash in, and execute a triple 3 string canceled into Liu Kang‘s Fatal Blow. This combo offers good damage and is relatively easy to execute.
corner f43~bf3 ex, b23, 333~fb – In the corner, start with a Forward 4 and 3 into an EX Dragon‘s Roar. Follow up with a Back 2 and 3 string, then finish with a triple 3 into Liu Kang‘s Fatal Blow. This combo is more challenging to perform but deals massive damage.
corner f43~f+k, b23, 333~fb – Another corner combo, this one utilizes Liu Kang‘s Dragon‘s Bite (Forward + Kameo) after the initial Forward 4 and 3. Continue with a Back 2 and 3 string, then end with a triple 3 into his Fatal Blow. Amp up the damage by incorporating Scorpion‘s Kameo after the final string.
Remember, timing is critical when executing Fatal Blow combos. Practice these sequences in training mode to get a feel for the rhythm and to ensure you can perform them consistently in the heat of battle.
Conclusion
Liu Kang‘s combo potential in Mortal Kombat 1 is a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the franchise‘s most iconic characters. By mastering his basic, advanced, corner, and Fatal Blow combos, you‘ll be well-equipped to take on any challenger and emerge victorious.
Remember, the key to success with Liu Kang is practice, patience, and a willingness to experiment. Don‘t be afraid to try out new combo variations and explore different ways to incorporate Kameo fighters into your sequences. With time and dedication, you‘ll be able to unleash Liu Kang‘s full potential and dominate the competition.
So, what are you waiting for? Fire up MK1, select Liu Kang, and start your journey towards becoming a true master of the Dragon‘s Fist. The tournament awaits, and with this comprehensive guide at your fingertips, victory is within reach. Good luck, and may the Elder Gods watch over you!
