Sometimes new isn't as good as the old.

The Mortal Kombat franchise returned this year with this self entitled game, and redefined the meaning of violence. As you all know this game was banned in Australia because “It was too violent” and the fact is that it's true. With every blow you see the visual impact on your opponent and if you're lucky enough to perform the brand new X-ray move you'll see the physical impact as well. This is what Mortal Kombat is all about, fighting to the death. And doing it with style.

So what can you expect from MK9? You can expect a numerable amount of features including

• Alternate retelling of the original Mortal Kombat trilogy
• New character designs
• Two new Characters to the franchise ( PS3 exclusive Kratos and Cyber Sub-Zero)
• Fatalities and Babalities
• Classic costumes
• Challenge ladder
• Tag Kombat
• Test your Might, Sight, and Luck
• The Krypt returns
• Online play
• 3D play
• And much more

From what you've just read you know it's going to be packed full of goodies for you to enjoy.

If you're in the market for a new fighting game, and you're not bound by parental consent then this is the game for you.

I just want to make a note of some of the bad things about this game for everyone to see.

First of all, there are serious issues with online play. If I'm going to play with someone on my friends list then there will often be some lag. But if I try to play with other, random people online it is just hopeless – the match won't start or will last about 3 seconds before an error message comes up. A few people who have played this online will say that they didn't have problems like this but most people certainly do.

The only other thing I want to mention, just as a minor end note really, is don't expect to get a platinum trophy for this game without playing for several hundred hours! That's because the only gold trophy requires playing for at least 24 hours with each and every fighter.

The best in the series. Taking it back to it's orginal roots and improving the fatalities of the last few this is a must have for any MK fan. The challenage tower adds in great entertainment utilising all characters. Four person tag tournaments are great to play with your friends. Not doing so well- Tag in a special move from your buddy to bring things square. Beautifully presented with an engaging storyline and as usual each character has their own ladder ending.