Mastering Mortal Kombat 1: Your Ultimate Guide To Controls And Combos

No matter what game you play, it abides by a certain input control code that players follow. Mortal Kombat 1 is no different. The game uses a universal input code for consistent control notation across all consoles. This standardized system allows players to understand and replicate moves regardless of their platform. The code is based on a numbered system, with each number representing a specific button or direction. So, if you are clueless about Mortal Kombat 1 controls, learn everything about it below!

MK1 Controls & Input Terminology

While learning the code is essential for mastering the game, it’s crucial to correlate these numbers with your console’s button layout. This input system is widely adopted in the fighting game community and is fundamental to improving your Mortal Kombat 1 skills. The table below will help you understand the controls input used universally and how to adapt it to your consoles or PC controls.

Universal Input Label	PlayStation 5	Xbox Series X\|S	Nintendo Switch	PC
1	Square	X	Y	J
2	Triangle	Y	X	I
3	X/Cross	A	B	K
4	Circle	B	A	L
Grab	L1	LB	L	Spacebar
Block/Empower	R2	RT	ZR	O
Kameo Assist	R1	RB	R	;

Along with the common moves, directional buttons (D-pad and WASD) on your controller are noted as (U)p (D)own (B)ack (F)ront (J)ump. Moreover, there are a few terms to help you understand key inputs. These are MB for Meter Burn, KA for Kameo Assist, WF for Walk Forward, and ~ for Cancel Mid Animation.

Understanding Mortal Kombat 1 Inputs & Combos

Understanding input notation is crucial for mastering Mortal Kombat 1. Once you know the buttons, there are two basic things you must keep in mind while using universal inputs:

Inputs Next To Each Other

In most guides, you will notice the universal inputs next to each other. This means you will have to perform them together. For example, if it says B4 (low kick), it is the same on all the consoles. According to the universal input, B means back and 4 means Xbox’s B button, the Switch’s A button, and the PlayStation’s Circle button. This means, performing a low kick:

Xbox players have to press back and B
Switch players have to press back and A
PlayStation players have to press back and Circle

Inputs Separated by Commas

On the other hand, some combos show the use of commas in universal input. Commas between inputs indicate sequential presses, but the combination of “F” and “4” signifies a simultaneous input of forward and the corresponding button before proceeding with the rest of the combo. So, while performing Scorpion's Spear with B, F, 1: