In a move that feels like a classic "Friendship, Friendship, again!" moment for fans, Microsoft appears to be sweetening the pot for its Game Pass subscribers amid recent subscription price hikes. New evidence suggests that the genre-defining fighting game, Mortal Kombat 1, is preparing to make a bloody entrance onto the service.
If you’ve felt the sting of the recent Xbox Game Pass price increases, you’re not alone. The backlash from the gaming community has been palpable, with many questioning the value proposition of the subscription service. Now, it seems Microsoft is ready to counterpunch with a major addition. Recent activity on the Microsoft Store has potentially leaked that NetherRealm Studios' acclaimed Mortal Kombat 1 is coming soon to Game Pass, likely for its Premium tier.
The Smoking Gun: A Store Page Leak
The rumor mill went into overdrive when eagle-eyed users spotted promotional material for Mortal Kombat 1 featured directly within the Xbox Game Pass spotlight on the official Microsoft Store. This kind of placement is rarely an accident and is often a precursor to an official announcement.
The discovery was quickly picked up by gaming news outlets, with VGT Gaming News on X sharing the visual proof that has the community buzzing.
This leak is particularly significant because Mortal Kombat 1 was notably absent from previous, reliable leaks about upcoming Game Pass titles. Its sudden appearance suggests a last-minute deal or a strategic move by Microsoft to bolster its library during a period of subscriber discontent.
A Brutal Reboot Meets a Harsh Reality
Despite the legendary status of the Mortal Kombat franchise, the reaction to this potential news has been surprisingly mixed. The core of the skepticism stems directly from the new Game Pass pricing structure.
Here’s the brutal truth many gamers are pointing out: the cost of a single month of Game Pass Ultimate is now nearly the same as just buying Mortal Kombat 1 outright during a sale. For a game where competitive multiplayer is the primary long-term draw, the calculus changes. Why pay a recurring subscription to rent a fighting game when you could own it permanently for a similar one-time fee?
This highlights a growing tension in the subscription model for certain game genres. While it's perfect for trying out a single-player story or diving into a co-op adventure, the "live service" nature of a fighting game can feel at odds with a service that cycles games in and out.
Why You Should Still Be Excited
If you can look past the pricing debates, the potential arrival of Mortal Kombat 1 on Game Pass is a massive win for the service's library. This isn't just another game; it's a full-scale reboot of one of gaming's most iconic franchises.
For the uninitiated, Mortal Kombat 1 serves as a soft reset for the entire timeline. It reimagines the origins of classic characters like Liu Kang, Scorpion, and Sub-Zero, offering a fresh starting point for both lapsed fans and newcomers. The game has been praised for its visceral combat, stunning graphics, and the return of the iconic, over-the-top Fatalities that made the series a household name.
For existing Game Pass subscribers, this is essentially a free, premium title to download and enjoy. It lowers the barrier to entry significantly, allowing millions of players to experience the latest chapter in this bloody saga without a separate upfront investment.
When Can We Expect the Official Announcement?
As of now, Microsoft and NetherRealm Studios have remained silent, offering no official confirmation. However, history gives us a strong clue. Microsoft typically refreshes the Game Pass roster in the first and second half of each month.
Given the timing of this leak, it seems highly probable that an official announcement is imminent. A realistic expectation is for Mortal Kombat 1 to join the Game Pass lineup in either the November or December 2024 update.
The Perfect Handheld Fighter?
For gamers who have embraced the PC handheld revolution, this news is especially tantalizing. Mortal Kombat 1 carries a "Gold" Proton compatibility rating, meaning it runs exceptionally well on Linux-based devices like the Steam Deck and its competitors.
Imagine taking the intense, combo-based action on the go. Devices like the Lenovo Legion Go (which you can find on Amazon) would be perfect platforms for practicing your fatalities anywhere, turning your commute or travel time into a training session.
Check out the Lenovo Legion Go here: https://amzn.to/48JvmVC
While the debate around the value of Game Pass will undoubtedly continue, the potential addition of a blockbuster title like Mortal Kombat 1 is a clear signal that Microsoft is still committed to delivering high-quality content. Whether it's a flawless victory or a narrow win for the subscription service, however, remains to be seen. Keep your eyes peeled for that official "It's Official!" tweet—your next fight is likely just a download away.
LEAKED - Mortal Kombat 1 coming to Xbox Game Pass 👀
— VGT Gaming News (@GAMERNEWSonX) October 2, 2025
A new banner on the Microsoft Store has Mortal Kombat 1 as one of the games available with Game Pass Premium pic.twitter.com/rK9tsnT1Wb
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