Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 vs Mortal Kombat 4
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 combines the best elements of the franchise into a single thrilling experience. Shao Kahn seeks revenge as his legions attempt to eliminate all Earthrealm souls, and Queen Sindel awaits her evil king to reunite and take control of both realms. Players can jump straight into the action with 23 immediately available characters like Reptile, Cyrax, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Jax, Katana, and Sonya. Enjoy various game modes including one-on-one, two-on-two, and the intense 8-fighter tournament against computer opponents.
Mortal Kombat 4 brings the legendary 1 vs 1 fighting franchise into the third dimension while maintaining its signature brutal combat and classic mechanics. Players can choose from a roster of fifteen initial fighters, featuring both returning favorites like Scorpion and Sub-Zero alongside fresh challengers. Set after the escape of the fallen Elder God Shinnok from the Netherrealm, Earthrealm's warriors must once again unite to prevent total universal conquest. With the introduction of weapon usage in combat and classic fatalities, the game delivers an intense arcade fighting experience.
- Large roster of 23 playable characters right from the start
- Exciting new interactive levels add variety to matches
- Multiple game modes including tournaments and team battles
- Unlockable boss characters and hidden fighters for extra replay value
- First title in the series with 3D character models
- Great roster mixing classic and new fighters
- Introduction of weapon usage in combat
- Classic brutal fatalities and finishers
- Critical reception was mixed with a score of 60 out of 100
- Limited modern online infrastructure compared to contemporary fighters
- Steep learning curve for casual players trying to master combos
- Graphics have aged significantly since 1997 release
- Balance issues among certain character matchups
- Port lacks some features of the arcade original
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataMortal Kombat 4 offers a smaller, pioneering 3D roster with weapon combat, while Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 provides a larger character list and more modes but mixed reviews.
Key differences
- •Roster size: MK4 starts with 15 fighters (unlockable later) vs UMK3’s 23 fighters from the start.
- •Gameplay dimension: MK4 uses 3D character models and weapons; UMK3 remains 2D with interactive level elements.
- •Content breadth: UMK3 includes tournament, team battles, and hidden bosses; MK4 focuses on story and boss fights.
- •Critical reception: UMK3 has a documented critic score of 60/100; MK4’s reception not specified.
- •Release era: MK4 (1997) has newer graphics than UMK3 (1995) but both are now dated.
Pricing & value
Both are one‑time paid titles; no price details for MK4, UMK3 listed at $19.99.
Gameplay & fun factor
UMK3 offers more characters, modes, and interactive levels, increasing variety.
Platform availability
Both are legacy console/arcade ports; specific platforms not listed.
Multiplayer / co‑op
MK4 includes co‑operative play; UMK3 lists only single‑player and multiplayer.
Content & replayability
UMK3’s tournament, team battles, and unlockable bosses provide broader replay value.
Difficulty & accessibility
MK4’s smaller roster and simpler 3D combat are easier for casual retro fans.
Graphics & performance
MK4 uses newer 3D models (1997) versus UMK3’s older 2D graphics (1995).
Choose Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 if…
Players seeking more characters, modes, and depth despite a steeper learning curve.
Choose Mortal Kombat 4 if…
Retro fans wanting a classic 3D experience with co‑op and simpler roster.
Common questions
Which game has more playable characters out of the box?
Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 offers 23 characters immediately; Mortal Kombat 4 starts with 15 and unlocks more later.
Do either of the games support co‑operative play?
Mortal Kombat 4 includes co‑op mode; Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 lists only single‑player and multiplayer.
Is there any critical rating information for these titles?
Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 has a documented critic score of 60/100; no critic score is provided for Mortal Kombat 4.