The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) was a popular gaming console in the early 1990s, known for its impressive library of games. One of the most iconic and controversial titles of that era is Mortal Kombat II, a fighting game that became infamous for its graphic violence and "fatalities." In this article, we'll take a closer look at the characters, secrets, and features of Mortal Kombat II on the SNES, as well as explore its age rating.

A Brief History of Mortal Kombat II

Mortal Kombat II was released in 1993 by Midway Games, just a year after the original Mortal Kombat. The game built upon the success of its predecessor, introducing new characters, stages, and gameplay mechanics. Mortal Kombat II also featured an expanded "fatalities" system, allowing players to gruesomely finish off their opponents.

Characters in Mortal Kombat II

Mortal Kombat II boasts an impressive roster of 10 playable characters, each with their unique abilities and special moves. These characters include:

1. Liu Kang: The main protagonist of the series, Liu Kang is a Shaolin monk who wields a pair of nunchucks.
2. Johnny Cage: An actor and martial artist, Johnny Cage uses his movie star persona to distract opponents before delivering a swift kick.
3. Sonya Blade: A skilled fighter and member of the Special Forces, Sonya Blade excels in close-range combat with her trusty Uzi machine gun.
4. Kano: The leader of the Black Dragon clan, Kano is a brutal and ruthless fighter who wields a pair of sai.
5. Sub-Zero: A member of the Lin Kuei clan, Sub-Zero can freeze his opponents solid using his icy powers.
6. Scorpion: A specter from hell, Scorpion seeks revenge against those who wronged him in life.
7. Smoke: Another member of the Lin Kuei clan, Smoke is a master of stealth and deception.
8. Raiden: The god of thunder, Raiden can summon lightning bolts to strike down his opponents.
9. Kitana: A princess from Edenia, Kitana uses her fan to attack opponents with swift and deadly precision.
10. Reptile: A mysterious creature from the Outworld dimension, Reptile is a formidable fighter who can transform into a reptilian form.

Secrets and Easter Eggs

Mortal Kombat II contains several secrets and Easter eggs that fans of the game have discovered over the years. Here are a few examples:

• To unlock the "Konquest Mode," players must complete all 12 stages on the hardest difficulty setting without continuing.
• When playing as Sub-Zero, pressing the "down" button while in mid-air allows him to freeze his opponents solid.
• In the character select screen, players can press the "start" button repeatedly to hear a secret voice message from Liu Kang.
• If players input a specific code (1-2-3-4) into the game's start-up menu, they will be rewarded with a special "hidden" stage.

Games and Levels

Mortal Kombat II features 12 stages, each set in a different environment. The stages are divided into three categories: terrestrial, aquatic, and aerial. Here are all 12 stages:

1. Pit
2. Jungle
3. Temple
4. Mountain
5. River
6. Cave
7. Harbor
8. Forest
9. Stadium
10. Volcano
11. Sub-Stage (accessed by completing the previous stage)
12. Hidden Stage (accessed by inputting a specific code)

Age Rating

Mortal Kombat II was initially rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in 1993, due to its graphic violence and "fatalities." The game's rating has since been updated to AO (Adults Only), which means it is not suitable for players under the age of 18.

Legacy

Mortal Kombat II remains one of the most iconic fighting games of all time, influencing countless sequels, spin-offs, and imitators. Its impact on popular culture cannot be overstated, with its characters and catchphrases becoming ingrained in gaming history.

In conclusion, Mortal Kombat II on the SNES is a classic game that still holds up today. Its impressive roster of characters, extensive secrets and Easter eggs, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of fighting games. However, its age rating reflects its graphic content, which may not be suitable for all players.

If you're looking to experience Mortal Kombat II on your SNES, make sure to check out the various re-releases and ports that have been made available over the years. Some notable releases include:

• The original SNES release (1993)
• The "Complete" edition, which includes all 10 characters and 12 stages (2000)
• The "Mortal Kombat II: Special Edition," which features updated graphics and sound (2011)

Whether you're a retro gaming enthusiast or simply looking to experience one of the greatest fighting games of all time, Mortal Kombat II on the SNES is an absolute must-play.