Funny question to be asking, considering how a huge proportion of all things MK is an obvious reference to some other pop culture thing.

I see the similarity, but I wouldn't go as far as to say its shameful copying as you seem to be inferring.

I mean let's not act like it's a completely original idea to put Noob Saibot in Wring Wraith armor. That idea has been proposed hundreds of times.

He's supposed to resemble the grim reaper and how do you make the grim reaper look cool in a combat oriented game? If you don't go the Spinal route the only other route to go is with the jagged armor.

Mind you I think there is a lot more that could be done but meh.

I wouldn't put it past them to take ideas from fan content though. Remember how a users concept for Reptile was actually revealed to be a proposed design for him in MKX.

On the other hand for all we know this artists actually works at NRS right now.

Take into consideration that much of the game production and design is outsourced to Asia and overseas countries in Europe so it's no wonder when some designs look recycled. Sad but true. :/

*eye roll*