Mortal Kombat 11 throws a lot at you right from the jump—characters, currencies, mechanics, gear, and more. It can feel overwhelming, especially for newcomers or players returning after a long break. But don’t sweat it. This guide will break down 12 essential things every player should know to get their MK11 journey off to a powerful start.

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1. Start with the Tutorials and Character Lessons

MK11’s tutorial system is one of the most detailed in the genre. It goes beyond just telling you which buttons to press—it actually teaches core fighting game concepts like:

• Frame data
• Zoning
• Escaping pressure
• Match-specific strategies

There’s even character-specific training that helps you get familiar with individual fighters. It’s an invaluable tool that gives you real fundamentals instead of leaving you guessing.

2. Learn from the Move List

Outside of the tutorial, every character has a move list that includes inputs, damage values, and full frame data. It may look intimidating at first, but understanding concepts like startup speed, recovery, and block disadvantage will give you an edge in real matches.

Having this info built into the game means you don’t have to hunt down frame data elsewhere—just hit pause, open the move list, and get studying.

3. Use Fatal Blows Wisely

Fatal Blows are flashy cinematic moves you can perform once per match when you’re below 30% health. Press both triggers to activate them. But here’s the trick:

• They can be blocked, so don’t just throw them out randomly.
• Save it for a comeback opportunity or weave it into a combo for guaranteed damage.

Avoid wasting it in Round One unless it’ll secure the win.

4. Understand Meters: Offense and Defense

MK11 splits its meter system into two distinct parts:

• Offensive Meter – Used to amplify special attacks, dealing more damage or extending combos.
• Defensive Meter – Used for breakaways, get-up attacks, or rolls.

Both regenerate automatically over time. Smart management of these meters can completely change the outcome of a match. Don’t burn everything early—hold onto your tools.

5. Experiment with Combo Strings

Combo building is essential to dealing damage. The game won’t feed you finished combos—but it gives you all the tools:

• Launchers to start juggles
• Stun attacks to leave enemies open
• Amplified specials to extend or finish combos

Hit the lab and experiment with different strings. The deeper you go, the more damaging and stylish your combos become.

6. Customize Variations for Your Playstyle

MK11 lets you build custom character variations with unique special moves, gear, and augments. Gear changes are cosmetic only, so you’re free to mix and match for style.

Use this freedom to explore your favorite tools. Whether you want more zoning, better mobility, or enhanced throws, you can fine-tune a fighter to your liking.

7. Know the Preset Variations for Ranked

When playing ranked matches, you’re limited to two predetermined variations per character. This standardizes competition and balances the meta.

So while customization is great for casual or AI matches, you’ll need to study the preset loadouts if you want to compete seriously online. Learn what they do and how to use their tools effectively.

8. Master MK11’s Currency System

There are four main types of currency in MK11:

• Koins – Earned from almost everything. Used to open chests in the Krypt.
• Soul Fragments – Gained by winning matches. Used to open green chests or repair objects in the Krypt.
• Hearts – Earned by doing Fatalities and Brutalities. Used to open premium chests.
• Time Krystals – Can be bought or earned. Used in the premium shop for skins, intros, and more.

Each currency unlocks different types of content, so understanding them helps you prioritize your grind.

9. Explore the Krypt

The Krypt is more than just a chest menu—it’s a third-person adventure across Shang Tsung’s Island. You’ll solve puzzles, uncover secrets, and spend your hard-earned currency.

Iconic locations like Goro’s Lair and Mataro’s Horn appear as fan service and challenge areas. Keep an eye out for hidden keys and interactables—you never know what secret gear or cosmetics are waiting.

10. Use the Towers of Time for Rewards

If you want gear fast, hit up the Towers of Time. These evolving challenge towers offer:

• Unique match conditions (like projectiles falling from the sky)
• Limited-time modifiers
• Consumables that you can equip to help even the odds

You can also send in an AI fighter to complete towers for you—perfect for grinding while multitasking.

11. Complete Daily Challenges

Your Kombat Kard shows daily missions you can complete for quick Koins and other resources. These might ask you to:

• Win matches with a certain character
• Land X number of Fatal Blows
• Perform certain attacks

They’re usually easy and quick to finish, making them perfect for casual players to rack up rewards.

12. Don’t Skip Story Mode

MK11’s Story Mode is both cinematic and rewarding. Across 12 chapters, you’ll:

• Learn about each major character
• Fight using a wide range of the roster
• Earn a large amount of Koins and unlockables

It’s also just a blast. Whether you’re a longtime fan or totally new to MK, the story offers a grounded and exciting intro to the universe.

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Wrap-Up Getting started in Mortal Kombat 11 can feel like a lot, but once you break it down, it’s manageable—and a ton of fun. Start with the basics, take your time in training, and explore everything the game offers. Before you know it, you’ll be stringing combos, countering zoning, and climbing the online ranks.

Good luck out there—and remember, every uppercut you eat is just another step on the path to greatness.