Since its release, Mortal Kombat 1 has faced a rocky post-launch period. Despite the positive addition of two Kombat Packs introducing exciting new fighters, the game has also encountered issues with microtransactions, unimpressive seasonal content, and a somewhat bland story expansion. Amidst these challenges, a recent update has brought something that has revitalized the community.
Recently, Mortal Kombat 1 introduced not only Conan the Barbarian but also a surprise “secret” boss fight featuring a pink ninja named Floyd. This secretive showdown is triggered by completing 10 out of 37 randomized challenges unique to each player. Once you’ve completed these 10 challenges, your match will suddenly end, the screen will crack, and you’ll find yourself transported to the battleground from MK1’s first trailer to face Floyd. This hidden boss encounter is a fantastic new feature, offering a fresh experience that could serve as a brilliant concept for Injustice 3.
Injustice 3 has the opportunity to take inspiration from Mortal Kombat 1’s secret Floyd fight, using it as a base to introduce Elseworlds characters that otherwise might not fit as full-fledged fighters in the game. Iconic characters from different continuities, like Gotham by Gaslight’s Batman, Red Son Superman, Amazonia’s steampunk Wonder Woman, and the Wild West-themed Justice League from Justice Riders could make brief but impactful appearances.
These Elseworlds heroes could be unlocked in Injustice 3 in a manner similar to Floyd’s journey — through the completion of specific challenges that align with their respective stories. For example, to unlock a boss fight with Gotham by Gaslight Batman, players might need to triumph over all knife-wielding fighters while playing as Batman, paying homage to the comic storyline centering on Jack the Ripper.
After defeating these hidden Elseworlds bosses, players should find themselves on a unique stage imbued with the essence of the comic source material. Imagine battling Red Son Superman in a backdrop of Soviet-era Moscow, or exploring a Batman Beyond-themed stage set amidst the futuristic skyline of Neo-Gotham.
Given how the Injustice series already explored multiverse themes in its second installment, integrating secret fights against Elseworlds characters seems like a natural progression for the next game in line.
These secret encounters could offer more than just the thrill of discovery. Just as Mortal Kombat 1 rewards players with exclusive in-game unlockables for defeating Floyd, Injustice 3 could provide a comparable bounty. In-game rewards might include skins inspired by the Elseworlds character, a distinctive stage, and other delightful cosmetics. If Injustice 3 happens to reintroduce unlockable moves from Mortal Kombat 11, adding moves themed around Elseworlds versions would be a thrilling addition. Imagine, for instance, Flash gaining the ability to use a six-shooter, echoing Justice Riders.
All these elements would not only enhance the game’s appeal but also offer players an enriching and imaginative exploration of the expansive DC multiverse.
