Renowned actor Jean Claude Van Damme will be making an appearance as Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat 1, albeit through a character skin.
Mortal Kombat 1, the highly anticipated next installment in NetherRealm’s iconic fighting game franchise, is set to take players on a time-bending adventure. This new game will transport players back in time, centuries before the events of the known Mortal Kombat timeline.
Despite the temporal shift, one familiar face will make his triumphant return to the roster: Johnny Cage.
This revelation has sparked a wave of excitement among fans, as it marks the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream. Jean Claude Van Damme’s connection to the Mortal Kombat franchise goes back to its inception.
Jean Claude Van Damme is Voicing Johnny Cage
In an interview with Polygon, Mortal Kombat series co-creator Ed Boon revealed that Jean Claude Van Damme was initially intended to play the role of Johnny Cage in the original Mortal Kombat game.
The developers at Midway had pitched the idea to Jean Claude Van Damme, even going as far as discussing digitized graphics and incorporating his likeness from the film Bloodsport into the game.
However, due to unforeseen circumstances, the collaboration never came to fruition. Van Damme’s presence in Mortal Kombat remained an unrealized vision.
Despite the missed opportunity, Mortal Kombat‘s creative team moved forward, crafting a unique character that would become Johnny Cage.
Martial artist Daniel Pesina portrayed Johnny Cage in the first two Mortal Kombat games, and actor Linden Ashby took on the role in the 1995 Mortal Kombat film adaptation. The character’s popularity grew over the years, becoming a beloved staple of the franchise.
However, now, after three decades, it seems that Jean Claude Van Damme has had a change of heart. The actor will finally have his chance to be a part of the Mortal Kombat universe as Johnny Cage.
This unexpected twist adds an exciting layer of nostalgia and authenticity to the game, as Van Damme’s association with the franchise predates its inception.
As fans eagerly await the release of Mortal Kombat 1, many questions linger. How will Johnny Cage, or perhaps one of his ancestors, find himself transported back in time?
Will Jean Claude Van Damme lend his voice to the character, bringing his unique energy to the virtual realm? These answers remain shrouded in secrecy, adding to the anticipation surrounding the game’s launch.
Mortal Kombat 1 will be available in various editions. The Premium Edition, priced at $109.99, and the Kollector’s Edition, priced at $249.99, will include the Kombat Pack add-on featuring the Jean-Claude Van Damme Johnny Cage character skin.
Players opting for the standard edition can purchase it for $69.99 on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X.
The inclusion of Jean-Claude Van Damme as Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat 1 is a testament to the enduring legacy and popularity of the franchise. It represents a moment of nostalgia for longtime fans who have been waiting for this moment for 30 years.
Van Damme’s portrayal of Johnny Cage, even through a character skin, will bring a unique charm and connection to the game. It’s a chance to celebrate the rich history of Mortal Kombat and the influence it has had on popular culture.
With Mortal Kombat 1’s release approaching, fans are eagerly anticipating the unveiling of the secrets behind Johnny Cage’s appearance in this historic era. The game will undoubtedly provide an immersive experience, blending cutting-edge gameplay with a touch of nostalgia.
As the Mortal Kombat franchise continues to evolve, the addition of Jean-Claude Van Damme as Johnny Cage serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and innovation of the series.
It’s a reminder of the impact that Mortal Kombat has had on the gaming industry and how it continues to captivate players with its unique blend of martial arts, fantastical elements, and unforgettable characters.
Whether Jean Claude Van Damme’s portrayal of Johnny Cage extends beyond a character skin remains to be seen. Fans are eager to see if his iconic voice and personality will bring an extra layer of authenticity to the character.
Regardless, the inclusion of Jean Claude Van Damme in Mortal Kombat 1 represents a special moment for both the actor and the franchise’s dedicated fan base.
In conclusion, the upcoming release of Mortal Kombat 1 promises to be a thrilling journey back in time for players, with the added excitement of Jean-Claude Van Damme finally fulfilling his connection to the franchise as Johnny Cage.
