
Long Live Mortal Kombat, Round 1
The Fatalities and Fandom of the Arcade Era
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Narrated by:
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Andy Ingalls
To politicians and parents, Mortal Kombat was a menace to society. To gamers, it was a way of life. From dedicated hustlers who put thousands of miles on their odometers driving coast to coast to challenge the top players in arcades, to fans who devote their free time to collecting action figures, setting world records, and plumbing the depths of its lore, the Mortal Kombat franchise has topped sales charts for thirty years, and its popularity shows no signs of waning.
But before Mortal Kombat offended politicians and sold over 12 million units (and counting), executives at Midway saw it as filler—a stopgap between more promising games like NBA Jam.
Cocreators Ed Boon and John Tobias felt differently. But not even they could have imagined the phenomenon Mortal Kombat would become when it hit arcades in October 1992, or the controversy that would follow in its wake.
Based on extensive interviews, Long Live Mortal Kombat: Round 1 chronicles the arcade era of the video game industry's most infamous fighting series, the creative and technical hurdles its team had to clear, and the personal stories of the fans whose passion has made Mortal Kombat a pillar of popular culture.
©2022 David L. Craddock (P)2022 TantorListeners also enjoyed...




















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Amazing book
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We’ll written, interesting book
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Feels great to know quite a few people that were quoted throughout the book.
An unbiased work
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Amazing resource of information
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Long but smooth
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The author's depth of investigation shines through each page, combining interviews, firsthand accounts, and detailed analysis to bring the story of Mortal Kombat to life. What sets this book apart is not just the wealth of information it provides but also the engaging way in which Craddock presents it. The narrative is accessible to both long-time fans and newcomers to the franchise, offering insights into the game's creation, evolution, and the impact it has had on gaming and popular culture.
One of the most commendable aspects of "Long Live Mortal Kombat" is its balanced approach to storytelling. Craddock celebrates the franchise's achievements, such as its groundbreaking mechanics, iconic characters, and cultural significance, while also not shying away from discussing the controversies and challenges it faced. This includes the debates over video game violence and the legal battles that helped shape the video game rating system in the United States.
The book is peppered with anecdotes and trivia that will delight fans, adding a layer of richness to the narrative that makes it more than just a historical account. It's a tribute to the creativity, innovation, and resilience of the developers, artists, and fans who have contributed to the franchise's legacy.
Furthermore, Craddock's analysis of Mortal Kombat's influence on the fighting game genre and its role in the broader video game industry provides readers with a deeper understanding of its significance. The franchise's ability to adapt and grow over the years, embracing new technologies and trends while staying true to its core elements, is a testament to its enduring appeal.
"Long Live Mortal Kombat" also benefits from Craddock's clear passion for the subject matter. His enthusiasm is infectious, making the book not just an informative read but also an entertaining one. The narrative flows seamlessly from chapter to chapter, ensuring that readers are always engaged and eager to learn more.
"Long Live Mortal Kombat" by David L. Craddock is an exceptional book that offers everything a fan or scholar of video games could hope for. It's a comprehensive, insightful, and thoroughly enjoyable journey through the history of a franchise that has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Whether you're a die-hard Mortal Kombat fan or simply interested in the evolution of video games, this book is an essential read that will deepen your appreciation for the art and business of video game development.
As comprehensive as it is enthralling
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A love letter 2 MK
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Great Book Great Job
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Great book, narration is a bit weird
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Deep, engaging, multidimensional exploration of a phenomenon
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