Extreme flooding in Chicago's Midwestern suburbs has had an impact on NetherRealm Studios figurehead and Injustice: Gods Among Us Creative Director, Ed Boon. As he tweeted recently, natural disaster was turned to archival gold as the Chicago native uncovered undamaged, classic memorabilia from the early days of Mortal Kombat!

Original stop motion models from Mortal Kombat and its two sequels have been added to the NetherRealm Studios collection, discovered amongst "20+ years of paraphernalia & swag."

Shokan characters Goro (MK), Kintaro (MKII) & Sheeva (MK3) were each accomplished through the magic of stop motion animation and digitized photography. The method - a trademark of the series in its early incarnations - allowed four-armed behemoths to appear opposite live-action actors with awe inspiring effect.

As series co-creator John Tobias explained in a Mortal Kombat Online anniversary interview; the method of animating models was partly inspired by classic cinema: "We wanted to have a brutish character as our boss and I remember thinking of the old Ray Harryhausen films..."

Goro as he appears in classic Mortal Kombat (1992) attract screen.

The discovery comes as Mortal Kombat II marks its 20th anniversary. The first sequel is still widely regarded as a high point for the series, responsible for adding a wealth of new elements considered definitive to the franchise. MKII introduced Kintaro as replacement sub-boss in an upgrade to the model work of the first game. Goro was the iconic first model featured in the series.

Dive deeper into nostalgia by joining the discussion in the 2D Klassic Kombat forum! There you'll find timeless discussion for topics like the first part of our John Tobias Interview.

Lobo rides his way into Injustice: Gods Among Us as the first of four characters coming to the DLC Season Pass! The game is at this years Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2) -- where the first trailer has just been released!

Be warned: the above trailer may contain violence, use of tobacco, and a bad ass 'tude! "The Main Man" is putting the serious hurt on Batman, showing off all the shotgun toting, chain hooking, space-bike riding violence you'd expect of the last Czarnian's fighting game debut!

Lobo was officially announced as the first additional DLC character during the Battle Arena Final. The merc' with a moustache also recently got the screenshot treatment, with a little history from your old pals at Mortal Kombat Online [full story].

No word yet Word is May 7th is when DLC (downloadable content) will start rolling out, but if you've got yourself that Season Pass, you're good to go regardless. The pass includes free download of Flashpoint skins for: Aquaman, Deathstroke & Wonder Woman. Batman appears in his Flashpoint attire in the trailer [unlockable in-game].

Injustice: Gods Among Us is out now for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & Nintendo Wii U! Join all the discussion on MKO [like the helpful ]! They don't call it the DC Universe Injustice forum for nothing!

The last son of Czarnia and all around "main man" is coming to Injustice: Gods Among Us as the first of four downloadable characters! With the game on shelves, the official Injustice Facebook is still cooking, providing the first screenshot.

Lobo has proved a popular request amongst fans, frequently sought during NetherRealm Studios' first stint in superhero fighters with 2008's Mortal Kombat versus DC Universe At the time of this article, Lobo has polled second with MKOmmunity users, earning 13.9% of votes [behind surprise omission: Martian Manhunter].

Having first appeared in an innocuous role as villain to Omega Men #3; the character is better remembered for the over-the-top revamp later featured in titles like; Green Lantern, L.E.G.I.O.N., Justice League & his own mini-series and specials.

Finding widespread counter-cultural appeal throughout the nineties -- the ultra-violent, biker version of the character was a parody of the grim 'n' gritty anti-heroes popular at the time. Ratcheting the mayhem and murder to absurd lengths; Lobo was reconceived as a commentary and criticism of the so-called "mature" adventures of popular properties like Wolverine and The Punisher. His adventures of the time included mercenary contracts that famously targetted the likes of Santa Claus [see; The Paramilitary Christmas Special], resulting in crossovers with many like-minded irreverent properties [ie; Judge Dredd].

This crossover appeal coincided with the proliferation of video game titles like Mortal Kombat. Like the Hong Kong inspired battles of MK; the tongue-in-cheek heavy metal carnage associated with Lobo drew the interests of a decidedly less ironic audience. Perhaps inevitably, Lobo became the very thing he was designed to mock.

In a Kaufman-esque twist; Lobo will kick off the Injustice DLC Season Pass! Fans can look forward to sinking the hooked chains into opponents like Green Lantern & Superman sometime in the near future!

Injustice: Gods Among Us is currently available through all major retailers, for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & Nintendo Wii U! Join the bastiches of The MKOmmunity and discuss all things Lobo on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

The Injustice Battle Arena may have wrapped up last week, but there'd be no ceasefire from the testers at NetherRealm Studios! Absent from the main contest: Catwoman & Harley Quinn feature in this bonus battle via DC Comics.

The pair of Gotham City Sirens appear in their Arkham City alternate outfits -- inspired by the hit game from fellow Warner Brothers developer, Rocksteady Games.

Arkham City versions of Catwoman, Joker & Batman featured in a store exclusive Injustice pre-order bonus [watch trailer]. Getting your hands on the Harley Quinn skin is as simple as completing the Girl Power Challenge in the game, or by collecting any Joker character card in the Free Injustice iOS App and synching with your WBID.

Relive the entire Injustice Battle Arena tournament via the arena archive. Sixteen heroes and villains fought their way through elimination brackets, leading fans to decide the ultimate battle between Batman versus Superman!

Injustice: Gods Among Us is now on sale at most good retailers for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & Nintendo Wii U! The (In)Justice League invade Japan with localized versions in June [full story]. Discuss it all on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

Sixteen of the toughest heroes and villains have entered a tournament called Injustice Battle Arena! Fans voted in the millions - now the verdict is in! Watch as Taryn Souther hosts the result of Batman versus Superman plays out in the Championship Final!

[Click to watch Batman versus Superman - The Championship Fight!]

Gods among fanboys Kevin Smith & Jason Mewes join regular host Taryn Southern for the final countdown to the battle we've been waiting for! The pair directed and starred in the who would win Injustice TV spot and have been with the game throughout its online promotion.

For the full pomp and circumstance, watch the above embedded video as is. Or, if you'd rather just skip to the epic showdown between world's finest heroes, click the link to load up the Championship bout!

Those who came in late may wish to familiarize themselves with the Batman v Superman history, or catch-up with the full beat up via our Battle Arena Tournament Hub!

Injustice: Gods Among Us is out now in America & Australia, and about to officially hit shelves across Europe! Be sure to join us and share your thoughts on the forum! Don't miss the Battle Arena tournament recap & Lobo DLC Announcement!

After a brief delay in proceedings, the Injustice Battle Arena is ready to wrap up! Before the tournament concludes with the epic final battle of Batman versus Superman, host Taryn Southern and NetherRealm Studios "Marketing Games Manager" Brian Goodman preview the game with guests Tara Strong & Ed Boon!

Creative Director Ed Boon makes the long awaited announcement of the first DLC Season Pass character: Lobo!

Popular with fans of denim, pointy bits of metal and Mortal Kombat -- Lobo fulfills a longtime fan request! At the time of article, Lobo holds 13% of the MKOmmunity vote, second only to Justice League stalwart and surprise omission - Martian Manhunter. The "main man" promises a unique playstyle identified by brawling and long range chain attacks!

Injustice: Gods Among Us is out now in America & Australia, and about to officially hit shelves across Europe! Be sure to join us and share your thoughts on the forum! Stay tuned for the Battle Arena result & the tournament recap!

After a brief delay in proceedings, the Injustice Battle Arena is ready to wrap up! Before the tournament concludes with the epic final battle of Batman versus Superman, host Taryn Southern and NetherRealm Studios "Marketing Games Manager" Brian Goodman take us through the bracket that was!

Along with some basic previews of Injustice: Gods Among Us, the tournament recap offers greater insight into the kinds of voting statistics that decided the Battle Arena fights!

Green Arrow v Hawkgirl and Flash v Captain Marvel proved two of the closest confrontations, while characters like Batman & Green Lantern dominated in the early goings. You can relive all the action and find forum discussions for each battle via the Injustice Battle Arena Info Hub!

Injustice: Gods Among Us is out now in America & Australia, and about to officially hit shelves across Europe! Be sure to join us and share your thoughts on the forum! Stay tuned for the Battle Arena result & first DLC announcement!

Rejoice! The day we've been waiting for has finally arrived! Injustice: Gods Among Us officially hits U.S. shelves today!

Australians, too, will find the DC Comics superhero fighter when they wake to April 17th, local time. Europe still has a brief wait for a street date of April 18th, but can get a free early taste via the downloadable Injustice demo and Injustice iOS App.

Injustice: Gods Among Us sees the heroes and villains of the DC Universe pitted against one another in a battle for total supremacy! Batman leads an insurgency against the total regime of Superman -- but can even the forces of two worlds save us from our greatest heroes gone bad?

Immerse yourself in all the Injustice: Gods Among Us details on the DC Universe Injustice forums! Got the game? Tell us what you think! Register to join discuss about strategy, story & more!

The final of the Battle Arena Tournament has come in the only form it could: Batman versus Superman -- the World's Finest heroes from DC Comics! To celebrate the launch of Injustice: Gods Among Us and the biggest debate of who would win a superhero battle, the winner will be announced live via stream Monday, April 15th!

Update Apr. 15: The Los Angeles live event has officially been postponed to reflect sensitivity amidst events in Boston. Mortal Kombat Online joins the Injustice team in extending sincere well wishes to those effected.

It all kicks off 7PM PST, live from Los Angeles! The Battle Arena winner will be announced, along with the first character coming to the Injustice Downloadable Content Season Pass! Be with us on the DC Universe Injustice forum as it all goes down!

In brightest day, in blackest night, Green Lantern is coming to fight! In this new Injustice: Gods Among Us story trailer, it looks as if Hal Jordan's greatest opponent will be the one fighter he least expects!

The presence of parallel universe(s) has become increasingly apparent as the world of Injustice: Gods Among Us comes into focus! We were first teased by the prospect with the release of "Alternate Universe V" character art [full story], before getting a full blown reveal for another world's Joker in the Harley Quinn Story Trailer!

We can finally dot the I's on the Sinestro Corps Hal Jordan glimpsed in previous trailers -- clearly a version of the ring slinger who inspires great fear. Will this be the doubt of a Parallax possessed Hal Jordan, or just a mirror image who went too far as a member of The Regime? A crisis of identity -- and worlds -- awaits!

The answers to these questions and more lie just a week away! April 16 is the official US street date for the DC superhero fighter! The action hits PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & Nintendo Wii U - but if an early taste is what you need, then the Injustice iOS Mobile App is already available! Get more & join the discussion on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

Killer Frost & Ares are the two most recent characters to join the Injustice: Gods Among Us playable roster [read more]. In this new trailer [via Gamespot], the pair show off their fighting aresnal in the throne room of Atlantis!

Mortal Kombat fans will find familiar territory in the Killer Frost character, whose attacks ring more than a little familiar to Sub-Zero. With rampant speculation about higher regarded ice-themed characters -- like Captain Cold -- you've got to think the overriding factor here is the powers of easy breezy similarity, rather than more inventive (and less flowing) manipulations of ice.

Traditional Wonder Woman nemesis and all around God of War Ares brings a variety of swords and battle axes to the fight. A cinematic super-move sees a giant-size Ares blot out the sun, summoning a thousand arrows from unseen archers; 300. The change in environment is a bit harder to explain than in Killer Frost's super - a blizzard complete with lethal ice sculptures.

Injustice: Gods Among Us rounds out a confirmed roster of twenty-four playable characters! Check out more trailers featuring: Black Adam, Raven, Deathstroke, Green Arrow & Catwoman. For more still, revisit previous rounds of Injustice Battle Arena and weigh-in on the inevitable final bout: Batman versus Superman!

Injustice: Gods Among Us is less than a week away! Arriving April 16; the DC superhero fighter will wage war via PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & Nintendo Wii U! Get ahead of the battle by downloading the free Injustice iOS App on mobile devices! Discuss all these and more on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

For as long as there has been a DC Universe, there has been the eternal question: Who would win in a fight between...? Celebrity fanboys and hetero life partners Kevin Smith & Jason Mewes grapple with this lofty question in a timely TV spot for Injustice: Gods Among Us.

We'll have to wait for the game to draw our own conclusions, but initial reports suggest Aquaman has "mad sharks." Snootch.

Injustice: Gods Among Us powers its way to home consoles April 16! Check out the Injustice Battle Arena Hub for more superhero fisticuffs and debating! Join the discussion on the DC Universe Injustice forum.

The court of public opinion is now in session! Injustice Battle Arena is pitting the heroes and villains of the upcoming DC Entertainment fighting game against one another in mortal combat! It's up to fans to decide who will win in the ultimate tournament of Gods Among Us!

This is it! Injustice: Gods Among Us is just a week away from the April 16 release date! Fans will vote throughout the final week to determine the ultimate victor in the Battle Arena Grand Finale!

Get the full preview to our epic main event in the above video. The long running, inter-twined relationship gets the full recap in this fantastic final overview! Take in the facts, then absorb a little extra perspective from the guest experts: Ed Boon (Injustice Creative Director), Wil Wheaton (WB Personality of Dubious Relevance), Kevin Smith & Jason Mewes, Stan Lee, George Newbern, Kevin Conroy, Geoff Johns, Jim Lee & many more!

Battle Arena Tournament Final: Batman versus Superman
As screenwriter David Goyer (Batman Begins, The Man of Steel) points out in the main feature, there are circumstances to be considered. There's no denying the strategic mind and vast resources of The Batman, whose modern persona is built upon a foundation of healthy paranoia. Superman typically views the world with a greater sense of optimism, afforded to him by the invulnerability of his sun-charged Kryptonian DNA.

Powers and ideals have been known to let Superman down, exploited in the heat of combat by less scrupulous opponents. Batman may be willing to fight dirty, but gadgets and planning rely on finite resources, and can always have a fail point.

They've battled many times over in seventy-years of comic book stories. Frank Miller's The Dark Knight Returns popularized not only the bitter struggle between the World's Finest pairing, but also the notion that Batman can triumph against the most impossible of odds. There, he relied on the power supply of an entire city and a mechanical suit to match The Man of Steel's strength. Then and now, Kryptonite remains a favoured mitigating factor. In Jeph Loeb's more recent Hush storyline, it was Superman himself who had entrusted Batman with a kryptonite ring once wielded by Lex Luthor. In other tales, like Darwyn Cooke's Miller-infused The New Frontier, Batman's science was able to synthesize the alien mineral -- much as it has been in other, more nefarious schemes.

Batman certainly appears to have a favourable record, in print, but it's easy to make a whipping boy of the character who can endure a loss. In Hush, it took a lethal threat to Lois Lane to shake Superman out of a Poison Ivy-induced haze. Typically, it's that green rock allergy. Batman's victories depend exclusively on exploitation -- the circumvention of Superman's inherent advantage. The Man of Steel, with his vast array of abilities, is defined by being man to the Nth degree. A literal super-man, a step beyond mere mortals. In a world where Superman has no reason to hold back, Batman better be ready.

Who wins the fight? I think we know the popular vote favours the edgier, more accessible Dark Knight Detective. In Injustice, Superman's certainly been free to conquer the globe. In the cold light of day? We'll let you debate that.

Relive the entire tournament via our Battle Arena Announcement Hub! Batman's path to victory featured fights against: Bane, Wonder Woman & The Flash! Superman got the best of: Sinestro, Green Arrow & Green Lantern!

Injustice: Gods Among Us hits PlayStation 3, Xbox360 & Nintendo Wii U starting April 16! The Injustice iOS App is already Among Us, with linked-in unlockable content! Stick with us in the countdown and beyond via the DC Universe Injustice forum!

Injustice: Gods Among Us is the DC Comics fighting game from the makers of Mortal Kombat! The game officially hits PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & Nintendo Wii U two Tuesdays from now: April 16th!

If you've been avoiding story details, then make sure you stop reading and click through to the forums right now!

The following video clip is reportedly the set-up to the Injustice story mode. If you're familiar with the first six chapters of the Injustice comic book -- you've got nothing to worry about.

Update: After being removed for copyright violotion, the video has since been redistributed via Gamestop.

As noted -- if you've read the tie-in comic [specifically issue #2/Chapter 4] -- you're not going to see anything new. The bombshell of that particular chapter is realized here in real-time, seeing Superman, Joker & Batman play out the scene that starts The Regime.

The video sequence comes courtesy of PS3GamingHD [via @MKServer]. It is believed to be the opening to the story mode, but it does skip over the events of The Line trailer, which set this up.

Not to be overlooked -- an opening quote from Lex Luthor: "I can say without a doubt that there are an infinite number of universes. Some are just like our own... but for one or two significant events, exactly the same."

Not the evil geniuses' most eloquent of moments, but it does harken back to the question of alternate universes within the plot of the game. We got our first hint in official concept art [full story], before the existence of parallel universe counterparts was blown open in the Harley Quinn Story trailer.

Injustice: Gods Among Us promises content in abundance, with modes like S.T.A.R. Labs Missions expanding the scope beyond the central plot.

Check out the trailer while it lasts! Register to discuss and speculate all things Gods Among Us on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

The Injustice: Gods Among Us App has gone live! The iOS mobile version of the DC Comics fighting game packs a portable punch, with reports bonus content can be unlocked for the console version, as well! Find the trailer and press release below:

WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES

Injustice: Gods Among Us Free-To-Play Game Now Available for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch

New Game Debuts on the App Store with Original Combat Gameplay
Made Especially for the Platform and Connectivity to Console Version

BURBANK, Calif. – April 4, 2013 – Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC Entertainment today announced that the Injustice: Gods Among game for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch is now available on the App Store. Developed from the ground up by award-winning NetherRealm Studios, this free-to-play mobile game delivers stunning graphics and a completely unique fighting gameplay experience created especially for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch.

The console version will also be available for Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and the Wii U™ system from Nintendo beginning April 16.

The Injustice: Gods Among Us mobile game features a collectible card mechanic and engages players in 3-on-3 tag team combat that pits many of DC Comics most popular icons such as Batman, Superman, The Flash, Wonder Woman, Green Arrow, Aquaman and more against one another. Fans who also own the forthcoming Xbox 360® and PlayStation®3 versions will be able to unlock content in the console versions that will be available in the mobile game, and vice versa, by registering for a Warner Bros. ID (WBID) account and playing the game.

“The team at NeatherRealm Studios created a custom mobile experience for Injustice: Gods Among Us on the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch that delivers gameplay mechanics created specifically for the platform” said Ed Boon,” Creative Director, NetherRealm Studios. “We’re excited to offer fans a new way to play fighting games that can be enjoyed alone or as a companion experience to the console versions.”

The Injustice: Gods Among Us game is available from the App Store on iPad, iPhone and iPod touch or at AppStore.com/Injustice. For more information and the latest updates, visit www.injustice.com or find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/injusticegame.

The Injustice App boasts an extensive range of content, including in-game booster cards featuring references to some of the heroes and villains who aren't among the main roster. Check out the Booster Card spoilers on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

Injustice: Gods Among Us may be the latest fighting game starring the heroes & villains of the DC Universe, but that doesn't mean their unique abilities will be confined to side-to-side brawling! As previewed by IGN, the battle arena is just the beginning!

S.T.A.R. Labs Mission Mode -- named for the eponymous science institution best remembered from Superman comics -- follows in the footsteps of NetherRealm Studios' Mortal Kombat Challenge Tower. Featuring mini-games, easter eggs and task-based challenges, the Mission Mode takes things even further than the 2011 predecessor, delving deeper into the world of DC Comics.

NetherRealm's Adam Urbano guides viewers through the basics of the mode in the IGN feature. The Senior Producer previews everything from the mundanity of tutorials, to the game-altering genre modes inspired by shooters, platformers & quick time events. In-built assets take on dramatic new contexts as missions bend the game into these unusual new forms.

Green Lantern enters a tug of war with the yellow energy of Sinestro; Black Adam fends off an asteroid assault, high above the Earth; and Aquaman uses marine telepathy to ward off the attack of a would-be shark ally. Twists on playable characters are sure to add plenty of extra amusement, but it's the exclusive Mission content that will pique the most interest!

Characters not featured in the main fighting game will make potentially galling appearances in S.T.A.R. Labs Mode, allowing players to control and combat some of the popular omissions. Cameo villains like Two-Face and Atrocitus get feature roles in the mode; while Trigon makes the leap from Raven's super-move, to STAR Labs opponent. The preview also includes the first distinct appearance of Martian Manhunter -- one of several "secret" characters who apparently make occasional cameos in arena backgrounds.

Like the Mortal Kombat Challenge Tower; players earn a mysterious unlockable bonus for completing the entire S.T.A.R. Labs Mode. With three objective stars to earn on each mission, replay value will also be awarded with achievements like the "World's Finest" 100pt trophy.

Additional missions expand the story and objectives of the game, available exclusively with pre-order bonus packs. Superman: Red Son and Blackest Night missions add story-driven content, and in the latters case, a special Zombie Mode. No other downloadable missions have been announced at this time [read more].

Thanks to MKOmmunity User for sharing this story. Join the action as we count down to the April 16 release of Injustice: Gods Among Us! Register to join the discussion in the DC Universe Injustice forum!

Machinima have made the leap from YouTube content to national television coverage. The online content provider launched a Mortal Kombat: Legacy TV spot, last weekend, promiting the upcoming Second Series of the live-action anthology.

Machinima claim another first for web content, having broken YouTube viewership records with the first series of the Mortal Kombat serial [read more]. The Hollywood Reporter calls the Easter promotion "history" -- the first time a YouTube network has purchased commercial television advertising.

The 60 second spot aired during AMC's The Talking Dead, featuring a pared down version of the full length debut trailer. Machinima Executive VP of Marketing Kevin Doohan told The Hollywood Reporter, "Connecting to a television event like The Walking Dead season finale, a show that our fans are deeply passionate about, will introduce millions more viewers to Machinima."

Mortal Kombat: Legacy 2 features adaptations of the iconic Mortal Kombat characters, featuring versions of : Liu Kang, Shang Tsung, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Johnny Cage & more. The second series continues from the previous anthology, moving the story to the iconic martial arts tournament of the first game and 1995 motion picture.

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa returns to the role he mastered in the 1995 film, leading an expanded cast also starring Casper Van Dien, Mark Dacascos, Brian Tee, Ian Anthony Dale & Dan Southworth. The Warner Brothers Digital venture is helmed by director Kevin Tancharoen, who remains attached to oversee a subsequent cinematic feature.

There is still no set date for Mortal Kombat: Legacy II's Second Quarter online debut. For cast listing, photographs and all the previous Legacy II updates, check out Mortal Kombat Online's Komplete Legacy II Kompendium. Follow & discuss the series on the Media & Merchandise forum.

DC Comics solicitations for October have confirmed the first Injustice: Gods Among Us trade paperback volume.

Collecting issues #1 - #4, the TPB weighs in at 168 pages. Those reading the digital counterpart will know this as Chapters 1 - 12.

The softcover volume arrives with a recommended retail price of $14.99.

Tom Taylor scripts the backstory to the game, telling of Superman's fall from grace and the rise of The Regime. Contributing artists include: Jheremy Raapack, Mike S. Miller, Marc Deering, Axel Gimenez & Bruno Redondo.

Gamers will want to keep in mind that Collectors Editions of the DC fighter include a special pack-in comic, containing issues #1 & #2.

Individual chapters can still be purchased via various digital mediums, including DC Entertainment and Comixology. For details regarding specific issues, previews & reviews, check out our Injustice Comic Book Index!

Edit Apr. 2: Another year, another cruel and unusual lie. Did we fool you? Not for a second! The following article is a complete fabrication: part of our annual April Fools tradition. You can berate us on the forums, or come down from the high with a look back at some of Mortal Kombat's best hoax, fake & forgotten characters! See you next year!

Injustice: Gods Among Us is still a few weeks away from an official April 16 release, but it seems NetherRealm Studios are already well aware of where they're heading for their next major project!

Back in 2008, Mortal Kombat Online was with you to break the first official news of Mortal Kombat's foray into crossover territory. Five years later, we're happy to do it all over again, confirming the official exclusive announcement of Mortal Kombat versus DC Universe 2!

Before anyone gets too excited, the as yet untitled sequel is still quite a ways off from its tentative release date of Q4 2014. It does, however, represent a bigger picture unfolding at the Warner Brothers owned fighting game developer.

Last September, we reported [via CVG] that there would not be an MKvsDC crossover sequel. As a representative from NetherRealm Studios tells us, this story was widely misunderstood. The fact the developers had been playing the original MKvsDC was the real story, indicating the initial pre-production phase begun by Ed Boon and a team of in-house artists, while the rest of the team worked on Injustice.

The development of Injustice: Gods Among Us has been described as a piece of a grander puzzle. With news of an elaborate story mode unfolding [read more], this is the realization of a custom DC Universe that NetherRealm will have full license to do with as they please.

Remarking on the tame nature of the original crossover, Ed Boon commented, "... we were playing Mortal Kombat vs. DC and we were surprised at how tame it was compared to Injustice." This 'untaming' of the DCU in Injustice will allow the Mortal Kombat developer to feature a less compromised version of their iconic violent game style.

The Gloves Will Be Off When Mortal Kombat Gets Its Rematch!

On the subject of fan resentment, NetherRealm say they feel this time they're getting the opportunity to do it right. The developer says Injustice is the vital component that was missing from the last game, allowing Mortal Kombat fans to become better acquainted with the DC Universe in fighting game terms.

Little in the way of specifics is on offer, but it can be revealed that Mortal Kombat vs DC Universe 2 will specifically continue plot points from both franchises, picking up on common elements. The investment in story and content is something NetherRealm promise to continue, expecting next generation hardware to allow for even greater developments in their story mode feature.

With the apparent rise of Shinnok at the end of the last Mortal Kombat, as well as the reveal of demons like Trigon and Neron in Injustice, it seems the dark arts will play a heavy role in the second collusion between these two worlds. Whether or not they will remember their last encounter remains to be seen.

Next generation hardware is also expected to allow for new gameplay innovations, but what they will ultimately involve is still a complete mystery. With the development of linked in features in the Injustice: Gods Among Us Mobile App, the ground is clearly being laid.

Injustice: Gods Among Us is scheduled for a US debut April 16. Mortal Kombat Online will continue to follow the DC fighter as it builds toward the next generation crossover!

A custom t-shirt service seems like an unlikely place to find new assets from a major video game release, but an account on Zazzle.co.uk has apparently delivered exactly that! Months of speculation has apparently ended with the reveal of Ares and Killer Frost via the on-demand merchandise maker.

Ares has been a contender for inclusion since being referenced by Official PlayStation Magazine Australia during their January preview. The God of Wars' helmet has since joined a range of avatar accessories available for sale on Xbox LIVE [full story]. Killer Frost featured in S.T.A.R. Labs Missions previewed recently at live events.

The artwork [pictured above] appeared amongst an extensive range of rendered characters, reported last week [via Test Your Might]. All products have since been removed.

The inclusion of the two villains elevates the playable roster to twenty-four characters. At least four more characters will find their way into the game via additional downloadable content [full story]. Blackest Night Batman technically constitutes another character -- available with Blackest Night pre-order deals [full story].

Injustice: Gods Among Us is mere weeks away! Fans can get their first taste via a free demo starting April 2 [full story], before the full game ships April 16 (US). Discuss all things Gods Among Us on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

While the basic premise of Injustice: Gods Among Us has been abundantly clear for quite some time -- the end result of a world where heroes turn tyrant has remained a mystery.

Edit Apr. 2: Well, did we sneak this one past you? Probably not! While our MKvsDC2 Announcement screamed tom foolery, we thought a second article might keep you guessing. The following article is, of course, a complete fabrication: part of our annual April Fools tradition. You can berate us on the forums, or come down from the high with a look back at some of Mortal Kombat's best hoax, fake & forgotten characters! See you next year!

As leaders of opposing factions: Superman and Batman have been frontrunners to assume the dual role of playable fighter and story-driven final boss. Sources attending the recent WonderCon comic book convention (March 29-31), however, have revealed the Regime v Resistance plot masks a far more complex storyline within the April 16 release!

Writer Jimmy Palmiotti was reportedly overheard to be discussing the plot of the game, which he oversaw in conjunction with NetherRealm Studios in-house staff. The most shocking revelation from the booth leak -- Snapper Carr will serve as the ultimate villain in the final chapters of an epic story mode!

Carr first appeared in Brave and the Bold #28 (1960), where he assumed the role of mascot to the assembled Justice League of America. He provided the team with their secret headquarters and offered a human perspective on the increasingly fantastic adventures of DC Comics' greatest collective.

Riffing on his comic book adventures, Carr's influence will be felt throughout the entire plot of Gods Among Us as players uncover revelations about the true nature of the backstory!

Injustice: Gods Among Us #1 details the result of The Joker's plot to attack Superman at his heart -- a scheme that sees the hero accidentally murder the love of his life and their unborn child. The same event triggers the destruction of Metropolis, but the origins of this plot remain completely unaddressed in the series that purports to tell the backstory of the game. This is no doubt a deliberate device, hiding the fact it was Snapper Carr who was tricked by Joker -- under the influence of fear toxin -- into revealing Lois Lane's connection to Superman and the disparate locations of the various members of the League.

With Scarecrow dead at the hands of The Clown Prince of Crime, and The Joker himself murdered by Superman [in issue #2], Snapper's involvement remains secret to the heroes, who quickly become occupied by a violent coup against the governments of the world. When The Regime is established, a guilt-ridden Carr sells his soul to Neron, who grants him the ability to access alternate universes to assemble an army against The Regime.

Drawing inspiratiion from the extensive DC Comics canon, the story mode will see a far more complex crisis unfold, reuniting the morally conflicted heroes against common enemies. Villains thought loyal to both factions indulge their own machinations as the two-sides are attacked from all corners by opposing influences.

Carr -- who will assume further super-human abilities via something called "The Key" (before becoming final boss) -- is not revealed until late in the game. He is ultimately responsible for various mysterious goings on, including the presumed resurrection of Joker and Scarecrow (actually versions from another universe).

Injustice: Gods Among Us hits home consoles April 16. The story mode will take inspiration from award winning developments made in Mortal Kombat, which is said to pale in comparison to the volume of content in Injustice [read more]! Remember to box spoilers when discussing the leaks on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

Injustice: Gods Among Us is mere weeks away, but fans will get a hands-on preview starting April 2! A free demo is coming to the comfort of your own home via PlayStation Network and Xbox LIVE Marketplace!

Update Apr. 2: Contrary to prior information, the Injustice demo has already gone live on XBL! It is now also available in the United States PSN store. Share your impressions on the forum!

The demo will deliver a pared down preview featuring Batman, Wonder Woman & Lex Luthor as fully playable fighters in the Gotham City arena!

With any luck, the demo-specific build should mean smaller and quicker downloads than NetherRealm Studios' 2011 Mortal Kombat preview [more], which resulted in mass content leaks.

According to the Injustice Facebook; the free demo will debut April 2nd via PlayStation Network US before hitting European and Xbox LIVE Marketplace and European PSN, April 3rd.

Fans eager to get some Injustice into their Xbox can hit up the LIVE Marketplace where an extensive range of Gods Among Us themed avatar accessories are now available [full story}. Injustice: Gods Among Us hits home consoles (inc. Nintendo Wii U) April 16. Be sure to share your demo experience with the MKOmmunity on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

Can't get enough Injustice: Gods Among Us in your gaming life? Fans can now kit out their Xbox Live digital avatars with the superhero designs from the upcoming DC Comics fighting game!

The extensive range of game-specific outfits adds to a previous catalogue of generic tees, offering a range of full costumes and masks via Xbox Live Marketplace.

• Cyborg Costume 400 points
• Batman costume 400 points
• Lex Luthor Costume 400 points
• Green Arrow Costume 400 points
• Sinestro Costume 400 points
• Aquaman Costume 400 points
• Green Lantern Costume 400 points
• Superman Costume 400 points
• Solomon Grundy Costume 400 points
• Wonder Woman Costume 400 points
• Ares Helmet 80 points
• Flash Costume 400 points
• Bane Mask 80 points
• Hawkgirl Helmet 80 points

Included in the full costume attires are helmets (and a mask) inspired by Hawkgirl, Ares & Bane. It's the first widely released material for the recently leaked God of War and traditional Wonder Woman nemesis.

The entire line are available now through Xbox Live Marketplace. Similar Mortal Kombat accessories are also available [read more].

Injustice: Gods Among Us hits Xbox 360 in the United States (16th), Australia (17th) & Europe (18th) throughout April. Japan will not receive a 360 release [full story]. Discuss all things Gods Among Us on the DC Universe Injustice forum.

Warner Brothers announced the pending release of a mobile version of Injustice: Gods Among Us during presentations at the recent Game Developers Conference, in San Francisco.

Coming to iOS and Android platforms, the mobile counterpart will reportedly differ from the home console version, but have direct consequences through linked content. Players will specifically be able to unlock achievements and six additional costumes in the console version.

Digital Spy learned the mobile game will be developed in-house by NetherRealm Studios. Little more can be revealed, but Digital Trends add that the app will be free to download and hit sometime approximate to the April game release.

In 2011, NetherRealm worked in conjunction with Rocksteady Studios to develop Arkham City Lockdown. The iOS exclusive featured a unique, simplified counterpart to the hit Batman console sequel [read more]. Mortal Kombat Online will endeavor to follow details as they are revealed. Follow along on the DC Universe Injustice forum.

He was one of the most anticipated characters in the popular DC Universe canon. With the official reveal of Black Adam as playable character, fans of Injustice: Gods Among Us have shifted focus towards the nitty gritty of what makes Black Adam a bonafide bad ass!

The Black Marvel faces off against Green Arrow in the latest gameplay trailer direct from NetherRealm Studios. The Black Adam spotlight comes in compliment to an extensive catalogue of previews delivered through Injustice Battle Arena.

Most famous for his indomitable will and unstoppable strength -- Black Adam's arsenal expands with an offensive bent placing greater emphasis on channeling the electricity of his Shazam magic.

Like his big red counterpart -- the Black Marvel wields an acronym of powers inspired by ancient myth and legend. The stamina of Shu; the swiftness of Heru; the strength of Amon; the wisdom of Zehuti; the power of Aton & the courage of Mehen complete an Ancient Egyptian inspired list that makes him one of the most powerful influences in the DCU [read more]!

More Injustice: Gods Among Us Trailers:
• 4/1/2013 Arkham City Pre-Order Bonus Trailer
• 3/21/2013 Harley Quinn Story Mode Trailer
• 3/19/2013 Blackest Night Pre-Order Bonus Trailer
• 3/17/2013 Lex Luthor Story Mode Trailer
• 3/15/2013 Raven Gameplay Reveal Trailer
• 2/27/2013 Red Son Pre-Order Bonus Trailer
• 2/13/2013 Aquaman Story Mode Reveal Trailer
• 1/24/2013 Lex Luthor & Bane Reveal Trailer
• 12/1/2012 Deathstroke Gameplay Reveal Trailer
• 10/9/2012 Green Arrow Gameplay Reveal Trailer
• 8/13/2012 Catwoman Gameplay Reveal Trailer

Captain Marvel, Superman, Batman & more feature when Injustice: Gods Among Us arrives on all home consoles April 16! Discuss all the characters and more on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

As previously reported; the land of the rising sun will get a dose of Injustice when the superhero fighter makes its way to Japan in June. This edition will get full localization, as evidenced in a new trailer.

Novelty of foreign languages aside, it's all much the same as the already released "The Line (Death of Metropolis)" trailer. It alludes to the catalytic events detailed by Injustice: Gods Among Us #1 [DC Comics] and offers an extensive preview of the central story mode.

Injustice: Gods Among Us may feature some of the most iconic heroes from American comic book canon, but the US fighter will skip the Xbox 360 when in Japan [original story]. The move follows previous experimentation with Mortal Kombat in the fighting game motherland [full story].

Closer to home, Injustice hits PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & Nintendo Wii U with an official street date of April 16. Fans abroad will be right behind; April 17 (Australia) & April 18 (Europe). Watch and discuss additional trailers on the DC Universe Injustice forum!

As any culture loving fan will tell you, Injustice: Gods Among Us is coming to conquer the entire world! Continuing a stream of bonus content announcements from overseas outlet, we've got an Arkham City DLC trailer via the official French Facebook account!

As previously reported; Injustice will pay homage to the hit video game sequel with three Arkham City inspired pre-order costumes: Batman [pictured below], Joker & Catwoman!

NetherRealm Studios have worked closely in the past with the makers of the Arkham games, assisting most extensively in the development of Arkham City Lockdown -- the iOS counterpart to the best selling console title. Mortal Kombat fans will remember the surprise cameo by Kano in the Rocksteady title [full story].

Arkham franchise references will go much deeper when Gods Among Us ships for consoles in April. A dedicated Arkham Asylum fighting arena includes various easter eggs pertinent to fans!

One transition includes Killer Croc & Two-Face amongst a motley crew of iconic Arkham inmates [read more]; while deeper in the bowels of the Asylum, Scarecrow appears in his Rocksteady design to inspire terror in unlucky opponents [read more].

The Arkham City pre-order bonus is one of several packages offered through participating outlets. Fans in the United States should still be able to get their gloves on the bonus via Walmart [PS3, 360]. French fans will find the extras exclusive to Amazon.fr.

Injustice: Gods Among Us is nearly upon us! Watch trailers for pre-order exclusives featuring: Superman: Red Son & Blackest Night and discuss it all on the DC Universe Injustice forum! The action hits PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 & Nintendo Wii U starting April 16!