Those who gain access to the limited Mortal Kombat 1 stress test have begun reselling their codes at unusually high prices, according to a report from GameRant Portal. In the earliest days of the screening, a standout offer appeared to buy access for as much as $1,000. The phenomenon reflects a growing demand for early participation and the perceived value of hands-on experience with the upcoming title before its wider release.
The Mortal Kombat 1 stress test is scheduled to run from June 23 to June 26, and codes started arriving two days prior to the test window. Initially, three-day access was advertised for $1,000, but as the testing period progressed, prices declined gradually, ranging from approximately $180 to $810 depending on timing, seller reputation, and bundled perks such as early access or in-game rewards. This price trajectory mirrors common marketplace dynamics for limited-access betas, where scarcity drives early interest but normalizes as the event unfolds.
At the conclusion of the test and with the full game launch, players will need to own Mortal Kombat 1 to continue playing. Users who used their test codes for their intended purposes reported positive experiences with the game on social platforms and forums, noting smooth online play, refined mechanics, and an inviting progression system that aligns with the franchise’s roots. These testimonials contribute to anticipation ahead of the official product release and help set player expectations for the final version.
The stress test itself is designed to validate the game’s online services, measure server capacity, and uncover potential stability issues before the complete title becomes available to a broader audience. By simulating peak load conditions and examining matchmaking, lobby stability, and cross-platform connectivity, developers can identify and address vulnerabilities that could impact a global launch. Early feedback from participants often informs final tuning and patches prior to general release.
Mortal Kombat 1 is slated to launch on September 19 for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC. The release plan reflects a multi-platform strategy intended to maximize accessibility and player base, while leveraging the franchise’s long-standing appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers drawn to its signature combat system, cinematic visuals, and scalable content roadmap. As the date approaches, publishers are likely to reveal additional details about post-launch content, competitive modes, and potential updates designed to sustain engagement across platforms.
Earlier reporting noted that the developers behind Escape from Tarkov have signaled stricter enforcement against data mining and other early-access activities. In the MK1 context, observers are watching how publishers balance access control with community engagement, ensuring fair play while preventing unauthorized distribution of sensitive test materials. In practice, this means a tighter grip on how codes are shared and a clear stance against exploiting test periods for advantage or information leaks, actions that could trigger account suspensions or bans where violations occur. The discourse around these policies underscores the ongoing tension between tester access and the integrity of a high-profile release. [Citation: GameRant Portal, industry briefings]