Documented for this version

Which controls does this version use?

Actions

Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 action controls
Arrow LeftArrow Right
Move horizontally
Arrow Up
Jump
Arrow Down
Crouch
Start
Pause the game

Control notes

  • Button assignments can vary between three-button and six-button Genesis controller configurations.

  • Character-specific special moves and finishing inputs are not listed because their exact Genesis inputs vary by move and reference version.

How it plays

How does Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 play?

Matches are viewed from a fixed side perspective. The objective is to defeat an opponent in a best-of-three-round contest by depleting their health before the timer expires.

Players move, jump, crouch, block, punch, kick, run, perform character-specific special moves, and can trigger Fatalities or other finishing techniques when the match-ending conditions are met. Arcade-style progression leads through a sequence of opponents, while versus play supports direct matches between players or against the computer.

Plan your run

What is the best way to play Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3?

Learn the range and recovery of one main character before expanding your roster. Use blocking to punish predictable special moves, and avoid jumping repeatedly because grounded attacks and uppercuts can counter careless jumps.

Save the Run mechanic for closing distance, extending pressure, or escaping unfavorable spacing. In arcade play, observe each opponent's habits, conserve your best special-move opportunities, and confirm the required finishing distance before attempting a finisher.

Meet the cast

Who are the key characters?

1

Scorpion

A revenant ninja who uses a kunai spear and teleportation techniques.

2

Sub-Zero

A cryomancer who attacks with ice-based powers.

3

Sonya Blade

An Earthrealm Special Forces officer who combines military techniques with energy attacks.

4

Liu Kang

A Shaolin fighter who uses fast martial arts and fire-based attacks.

5

Raiden

The thunder god and protector of Earthrealm.

6

Kano

A ruthless criminal and leader associated with the Black Dragon.

7

Jax

A Special Forces soldier who uses powerful punches and ground attacks.

8

Kitana

An Edenian princess who fights with steel fans.

9

Mileena

A dangerous clone and assassin armed with sais.

10

Kung Lao

A skilled martial artist who uses a razor-edged hat.

11

Johnny Cage

A Hollywood actor trained in martial arts.

12

Shang Tsung

A sorcerer who can steal souls and transform into other warriors.

13

Shao Kahn

The warlord emperor who rules Outworld and serves as the main arcade opponent.

Before you begin

What should you know before playing?

  1. 1

    Use blocking rather than trading attacks when the opponent has a clear speed advantage.

  2. 2

    Practice special-move inputs and finishing-move distances before relying on them in arcade play.

  3. 3

    The Genesis conversion has fewer audiovisual details than the arcade version, so prioritize spacing and timing over visual cues.

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