It exists for sure. I know, because I have both versions. The CD looks like this: NTSC, PAL. And I believe there's a copy on eBay at the moment.

But as for the graphics, I wouldn't say they're better in the DOS version. The difference with the other versions is significant. But take a look yourself, how the DOS version looks like:







Even the font is different and the name JAX looks like JA%

However, the control feels accurate, so it's your choice. But did you even consider using MAME? Since you want to use a PC in your cabinet, that wouldn't be a problem, I guess. Besides, both PC versions are nowhere near the arcade version, as regards the graphics.
P.S. Welcome to MKO!

Hi Mortalman,

Thanks for the response, 'tis very much appreciated.

So, let me get this straight. The pic link you provided for the NTSC version is MK3 for DOS, not the Playstation port to DOS/Win95?

I just want to be absolutely clear, because I don't want to buy a Playstation port to PC. I already have the Playstation version. I'm looking for the first MK3 version that came out for DOS only.

Just verify or me, if you would.

Thanks again, I really appreciate the info.

I have the DOS version as well from a later Platinum/budget release, despite the fact that the box clearly states "DOS/Win95 version".

I've never had the chance to play the Win95 version, but given that it's based on the Playstation port, i'd assume it plays and looks similar to MK Trilogy on PC.

For me the gameplay seems much better/tighter and closer to the arcade version. The graphics look better, i think it runs at a slightly higher resolution (comparing to MKT on PC). The life bars obviously don't use the original arcade graphics for whatever reason, but the rest of the game more than makes up for it.

That being said, if it is like MKT on PC then it may also have added transparency effects (explosions) and a higher colour depth.

If I had the choice, i'd go the DOS version mainly due to the gameplay..

To this day, i still think they should have coded MKT for PC from the DOS version of MK3.

hi robs,

Could you send me a pic of the disc you own? At least this would be one pic I could go by, should I find one online somewhere for sale.

mortalman,

Hope you could verify for me that the pics you linked are most definitely original DOS version disc pics.

Problem I'm running into is that most sellers don't have any idea how to identify the original DOS-only version. They just think MK3 is MK3 is MK3.

That PAL CD I linked is 100% DOS version, because that's the one I have. As for the NTSC one, from the looks of it, it's supposed to be a DOS version as well and to be sure, I've contancted the seller, too. But like you said, they don't have a clue what exactly they sell.

On a side note, the fun part is that on the auction you can read "Make sure you PC will play this game before buying!". But they don't say how the heck should I know that, if they can't tell me what version they sell!

Inner cover
Back cover
Disc

Like i said, it was "Platinum"/budget release about 2 yrs after the initial release. I don't have the box here to take a pic, but it was basically like the original with a grey/platinum border with the title PLATINUM PC at the top, and a blue banner on the side stating "Win95/DOS version".
I don't know how common it was.