Banned in 2011 for its depiction of realistic violence [full story]; Mortal Kombat was a controversial victim of Australian federal classification standards that -- until the beginning of 2013 -- lacked admissable ratings for Adult Content.

The high profile case proved to be a valuable motivator in drawn out negotiations for a revised classification peak. The long awaited induction of an Adult R18+ rating allowed for the reclassification of Mortal Kombat: Komplete Edition; finally released across Australia [minus Queensland] at the beginning of May!

The game may be almost two years old, but that didn't stop Aussies embracing the belated release like it was brand new! Nationally broadcast on ABC2 (May 7, 2013); Good Game was among the high profile outlets to give a full review of the Komplete Edition [originally released internationally; February 2012].

Despite universal domestic criticism for Mortal Kombat's initial banning down under; Good Game ultimately proved understanding of the refused classification, supporting its R rated release.

Addressing the unique situation; GG reviewers make note of the intense violence found in series' trademark fatality sequences -- at their most anatomically graphic in the 2011 reboot. The question of good taste is raised, but the reviewers remain sympathetic toward the intention and genre designs of more inventive finisher sequences.

Less forgiven is the award nominated story mode, which develops sequential context to MK's always well realized characters, in not always well realized ways. Dubious tropes of the series (tournament rules, arbitrary conflict, etc...) are as ripe for mockery as some of the lesser moments in voice acting and scripting.

Goodwill for the long popular series -- never banned in Australia before the latest installment -- is clearly a major part of the experience. The reprisal of classic characters and movesets proves a winner with the Aussie TV hosts, much as it did for lapsed and returning fans throughout the world.

Characters like Goro and Sub-Zero strike a chord in their reinvented form; whilst Shao Kahn draws the short straw for being a cheap boss. Detailed arena backgrounds don't suffer from the two-dimensional plane of play, a noteworthy highlight we would have to agree with. Reviewing the PlayStation 3 version, neither host is particularly impressed by the guest inclusion of Kratos (of God of War fame).

Possibly benefitting from being removed from the promotional cycle, the Good Game review proves honest and astute. The hugely successful fighter is clearly still ready to thrill with its refined fighting mechanics and Komplete Edition content options, but it isn't a game without flaws. Online connection issues still dog the game two years after the original, and creative choices and execution are ripe for criticism throughout.

Australian fans can find Mortal Kombat: Komplete Edition for the PlayStation 3 & Xbox 360 at all good stores. A PC version is coming to multiple global platforms beginning July [full story]. Discuss current releases in the Mortal Kombat Kontemporary forum.