Mortal Kombat mastermind Ed Boon’s revealed that NetherRealm Studios is working hard to ensure that Kratos’ appearance in the 2011 eponymous brawler will measure up to gamers’ expectations.
Boon insisted the team is working closely with the developers of God of War so that the bald bruiser stays true to form, stating NetherRealm has ‘nothing but respect’ for Kratos’ creators.
"A little bit of both actually," Boon told GamesMaster, when quizzed as to who approached who regarding the prospect of the God of War anti-hero appearing in Mortal Kombat.
"In our discussions with Sony we all wanted a character that was unique to the PS3, and Kratos was at the top of everyone’s list.”
"His look and fight style are very compatible to the MK universe. Everyone is really excited about this opportunity, and it’s been great working with the God of War team in making this happen."
"With any great IP, there are guidelines that must be followed. We’re working really closely with the God of War team to ensure that Kratos looks and feels the way gamers expect him to. We have nothing but respect for the God of War development team, and our goal is to stay true to their creation.”
Elsewhere, the MK creator also teased that fans can expect to see Kratos clobbering his foes with a series of trademark moves, with the studio having made "a very conscious effort” to kit him out with a classic GoW repertoire.
"Kratos is very much a power character," he commented, adding, "in that his attacks can do a lot of damage. After all, he is the God of War."
Mortal Kombat is due for release in spring 2011 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.