Ed Boon Answers Fans During a Weekend Q&A: What Could Be Next for Mortal Kombat and Injustice
Over the weekend, NetherRealm Studios’ creative director, Ed Boon, opened a wide dialogue with fans about the studio’s evolving lineup. He fielded questions on a broad range of topics, offering insights into what may come next and which elements fans already love. The exchange highlighted Boon’s willingness to engage with the community and his openness about future directions for the studio’s most beloved franchises.
One recurring topic asked if the Cabal could match the Flash in speed. Boon’s response was clear: the Flash remains faster. This kind of comparison underscores the careful balance the studio seeks between different character profiles and their core mechanics, while also acknowledging that speed is a defining trait for some of DC’s fastest heroes.
The conversation also touched on the potential for future Mortal Kombat titles to feature more horror guest characters. Boon replied in the affirmative, signaling a continued appetite for cross-genre guests that amplify the franchise’s signature blend of brutal combat and atmospheric storytelling. Fans who crave fresh, eerie crossovers can likely expect more of these appearances as the franchise evolves.
When asked about the possibility of remastering a classic beat ’em up, Boon offered a thoughtful response that reflected his interest in experimenting with different styles. He hinted at the potential for a Streets of Rage–style MK game, suggesting a partnership between familiar MK gameplay and a homage to a beloved beat ’em up heritage. This comment hints at creative possibilities while staying grounded in MK’s core identity.
The discussion then shifted to weaponry, with Boon naming his top three favorite MK weapons. He cited Liu Kang’s Sword, Sub-Zero’s Ice Scepter from MK4, and Scorpion’s Sword from MKX as standout choices. Such selections reveal a preference for iconic, visually striking weapons that define character expressions and combat strategies across installments.
Questions about crossover appearances also surfaced. Could Kratos appear in MK12? Boon wasn’t definitive, noting that Kratos’ inclusion would depend on player interest in returning as a DLC fighter. This answer leaves the door open for future collaborations while emphasizing community demand as a potential catalyst for crossovers.
The topic of favorite fatalities revealed a fond memory for Sub-Zero’s classic finisher from the original Mortal Kombat release, underscoring how certain moments endure in players’ minds and help shape franchise lore across generations.
The Q&A also revisited Boon’s history with the series. Fans asked about the MK parts he enjoyed most while developing titles. He highlighted Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3, MK9, MK X, and MK11 as standout entries that left a lasting impression on his creative process. These reflections offer a window into the evolution of the franchise and the elements that continue to resonate with fans.
Another question explored Boon’s all-time favorite movie choices. He named Goodfellas, Aliens, or The Godfather, noting that tastes can shift over time. This line of thinking mirrors the way game developers draw inspiration from broader pop culture while crafting new experiences for players.
When pressed about the characters Boon enjoyed playing in Mortal Kombat Deadly Alliance, his answer was Kung Lao, a choice that resonates with players who appreciate a blend of skill and showmanship in combat characters.
As fans pressed for a confirmation of the studio’s next project, Boon hinted that the studio might pursue a title that sits alongside Injustice 3 or a “deadly battle” concept. The phrasing points to a possible direction that could bring together fighting game mechanics with a broader, cinematic approach that fans have come to expect from NetherRealm.
Taken together, these insights illustrate a studio that values fan feedback while continuing to explore new ideas, crossovers, and gameplay innovations that keep Mortal Kombat and its universe exciting for players in North America and beyond.