The phenomenon of guest characters in fighting games won't be dissipating any time soon. 2015's Mortal Kombat X is already slated for a fresh batch of franchise intruders -- big business, based on the monetary success of Freddy Kreuger (Mortal Kombat) and Scorpion (Injustice: Gods Among Us) downloadable content.

In spite of fan controversies; the intrinsic intrigue of popular characters in places they wouldn't ordinarily belong has proved a powerful draw. While speculation runs rife for the next wave of Kombat challengers -- revelations of past possibilities remain a hot topic of fresh relevance! Cult support has built around 2011 near-miss Sweet Tooth, while the willingness of Spawn creator Todd McFarlane has inspired its own following.

Imaginative fans can now add Marcus Fenix of the Gears of War series to the list - revealed today as another crossover considered for 2011's Mortal Kombat reboot!

Marcus Fenix in promotional art for Gears of War 2.

Marcus Fenix is [one of the potential] Microsoft exclusive characters that never was.

Introduced in 2006's Gears of War; Fenix has been a mascot for the massively popular Xbox shooter series -- emerging as a poster child for the generation's fascination with the genre, and its propensity for burly, burdened archetypes.

Fans of Mortal Kombat (2011) will know Sony ultimately secured an exclusive deal to include God of War's Kratos as a PlayStation 3 bonus.

Speaking at Gamescom 2014; Creative Director Ed Boon confirmed the likelihood of one or more console exclusives for Mortal Kombat X [full story]. It remains to be seen if the continued relationship with Sony limits any exclusivity to PlayStation 4 editions.

Would you like to have seen Marcus Fenix adapt to the fighting genre? Which Kombatant would he best match-up with? Register to share your thoughts and fantasy fights on the forum! Dazzled your friends by liking & sharing this story via @MK_Online & Facebook!