Mortal Kombat 1 Fatality List And How To Perform Each Finish

Posted on 12 October 2026 | 142
News

Mortal Kombat 1 reinvents the iconic fighting game series by introducing a reset timeline alongside updated combat mechanics and brutal cinematic end-of-round moves. Performing a Fatality remains one of the most satisfying ways to finish off an opponent after securing victory in a match. Understanding button notations, positioning, and input timing is crucial for executing these legendary finishing moves consistently across every platform.

Understanding Input Notations and Positioning

Fighting game communities typically use numerical shorthand to represent universal attack buttons across PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo systems. Front Punch is designated as 1, Back Punch as 2, Front Kick as 3, and Back Kick as 4. Mastering these universal inputs allows players to easily read move lists regardless of their preferred controller setup.

Distance is another key factor when attempting to execute a finisher before the round timer expires. Characters must be positioned at Close, Mid, or Far range relative to their opponent. Taking a step forward or backward before entering directional inputs ensures your character executes the move without accidental misfires.

Main Roster Fatality Command Examples

Classic ninjas like Scorpion and Sub-Zero feature straightforward inputs that showcase their elemental abilities. Scorpion's primary finisher, Face Melt, is performed at Mid distance using Down, Down, Back, 1. Sub-Zero's Brain Freeze requires players to stand at Mid range and input Down, Forward, Down, 2.

Other staple fighters like Liu Kang and General Shao rely on precise directional sequences. Fire God Liu Kang delivers his Black Hole finisher at Mid range by pressing Back, Forward, Down, 4. Meanwhile, General Shao utilizes Spin Cycle at Mid range with Back, Forward, Down, 1.

Unlocking Secret and Secondary Fatalities

While every fighter starts with one Fatality listed in the pause menu, secondary finishers must be unlocked through character progression. Players can unlock a character's second Fatality by advancing their Character Mastery level through offline or online play. However, inputting the correct command sequence in a match will execute the move even if it is not yet revealed in the move list.

Mastering the full roster requires practicing button sequences in practice mode to build muscle memory under pressure. Utilizing Kameo fighters also provides unique secondary Fatality options to mix up your end-of-match presentations. Practicing clean directional inputs without accidentally jumping guarantees smooth execution every time.