Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1) is a stunning reimagining of the beloved fighting game franchise, featuring a rewritten timeline, enhanced graphics, and evolved gameplay mechanics. Developed by NetherRealm Studios, MK1 allows players to experience iconic characters like Sub-Zero in a whole new light.
As one of the original ninja characters, Sub-Zero has been a fan-favorite since the series‘ inception. In MK1, he returns with his signature icy powers and rushdown playstyle, but with some key differences that make him even deadlier. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll break down everything you need to know to master Sub-Zero‘s combos and dominate the competition.
The Evolution of Sub-Zero‘s Playstyle
To fully understand Sub-Zero‘s combo potential in MK1, it‘s important to examine how his playstyle has changed over the years. In classic MK games, Sub-Zero was known for his fast normals, tricky mix-ups, and ability to quickly close distances with his sliding and teleport abilities. While his core identity remains intact, MK1 introduces several changes that greatly enhance his offensive capabilities.
One of the most significant additions is the new Kameo system, which allows you to pick a secondary character assist to use during battle. For Sub-Zero, pairing with a projectile-based Kameo like Sonya can help cover his approach and extend combos with extra hits. The integration of Fatal Blows and Krushing Blows also gives Sub-Zero access to devastating combo finishers that chunk off huge portions of the opponent‘s health.
MK1‘s overall faster pace and emphasis on aggressive play also benefit Sub-Zero‘s rushdown style. With fewer defensive mechanics like delayed wake-ups and breakaways, Sub-Zero can more easily maintain offensive pressure and score big damage off hard knockdowns. All of these factors combine to make MK1 Sub-Zero arguably the most potent version of the character yet.
Freezing Fundamentals: Sub-Zero‘s Bread and Butters
Before we dive into advanced combos, it‘s crucial to master Sub-Zero‘s core bread and butter (BnB) combos. These are your primary damage dealers that are relatively easy to execute consistently. Practice the following sequences until you can perform them reliably:
| Notation | Damage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 2, 1 ~ BF2 | 90 | A simple combo starting with two quick jabs into Sub-Zero‘s Frigid Storm special move. |
| B2, B2, 2, 1 ~ DB1 | 100 | This combo begins with two low kicks to catch blocking opponents. Cancel into Ground Ice to hit confirm. |
| B3, 4 ~ BF4 | 110 | Sub-Zero‘s main combo starter. Begin with a low kick and overhead axe swing, then cancel into Rising Ice. |
| 2, 1, 2 ~ DF3 | 95 | A fast mid-hitting string that‘s great for punishing up close. Finish with Ice Klone Kick for corner carry. |
It‘s important to note that these damage values are just estimates and may vary slightly depending on positioning, Kameo assists, and other factors. Nonetheless, these combos provide a solid foundation that you can build upon as you gain experience.
"I‘ve mained Sub-Zero since MK2 and his toolkit in MK1 is the most complete it‘s ever been. His mix-up potential off slide and Rising Ice alone is ridiculous." – SonicFox, professional Mortal Kombat player
In addition to these bread and butters, Sub-Zero has plenty of mix-up tools to keep opponents guessing. His forward dash can be canceled into a low slide or overhead chop, making it extremely difficult to react to. You can also use the Frost Hammer anti-air grab out of Sub-Zero‘s running stance to beat opponents trying to interrupt your movement.
Breaking the Ice: Frame Data Fundamentals
To construct the most optimal Sub-Zero combos, it‘s important to understand the properties of his individual moves. This is where frame data comes in. In fighting game terminology, a "frame" is a single still image on the screen. For reference, MK1 runs at 60 frames per second.
Sub-Zero‘s key normals have the following frame data:
- Standing 1: 5 startup, 7 active, 10 recovery
- Standing 2: 7 startup, 5 active, 15 recovery
- Back 3: 11 startup, 3 active, 16 recovery
- Down 3: 7 startup, 5 active, 13 recovery
Startup refers to how many frames it takes for an attack to become active, while active indicates how long the attack can hit the opponent. Recovery is the number of frames after the attack is finished before you can input another action.
Ideally, you want to use attacks with fast startup to begin combos and catch the opponent during their recovery frames. Sub-Zero‘s standing 1 is a great combo starter because of its quick 5 frame startup. Moves like his back 3 have slower startup, but lead to bigger combo damage thanks to their launch properties.
To see this frame data in action, let‘s examine a more advanced combo that leaves the opponent standing in the corner:
2, 1, B2 (1 hit), dash, 1, 2 ~ DF3 ~ 1
This sequence deals a whopping 34% damage! Here‘s the breakdown:
- The 2 and 1 jabs are fast to start up and land during the opponent‘s block stun, keeping them locked down.
- Only the first hit of Back 2 is used to trigger a standing reset, leaving the opponent stuck blocking.
- Dash up and use Sub-Zero‘s quick standing 1 again, then cancel the second jab into Ice Klone Kick.
- Finish with one more standing 1 before the opponent can block.
Understanding frame data allows you to craft tight combo strings that are difficult to escape. Effective use of quick normals and cancel advantages is the key to maximizing Sub-Zero‘s damage output.
Pro Strategies: Combos from the Kompetitive Scene
To gain a deeper insight into Sub-Zero‘s combo potential, let‘s analyze some of the flashy sequences used by top players in kompetitive tournaments. Here‘s a combo from Konqueror‘s run to 1st place at Kombo Breaker 2024:
B3, 4 ~ BF4 (1 hit), dash, B2 (1 hit), 1 ~ BF2, dash, D3, 4 ~ Fatal Blow
In this 420 damage combo, Konqueror makes great use of both Sub-Zero‘s Kameo assist and Fatal Blow mechanics. After launching the opponent with Rising Ice, he dashes up and hits just one Back 2 to avoid triggering a knockdown. By leaving the opponent standing, he can loop into another Frigid Storm series and end with a huge Fatal Blow finisher.
"I love using Sonya assist in the corner to extend my combos with low ice and acid pools. Sub-Zero‘s neutral is so oppressive and leads to big damage anywhere on screen." – Konqueror, professional Mortal Kombat player
Another flashy combo comes from a tense top 8 match between Ninjakilla and A F0xy Grampa at Frost Fatality Fest:
2, 1, 2 ~ BF2, dash, 1 ~ BF2 (1 hit), 4, U3 ~ 2, D3 ~ fatal blow
This sequence showcases Sub-Zero‘s aerial juggle potential. After a Frigid Storm into dash cancel, Ninjakilla hits just the first blast then goes into a Frost Hammer for an additional mid-screen bounce. The combo is finished with a quick low before the crushing Fatal Blow. When optimized, this combo reaches an insane 48% damage!
Watching professional matches is a great way to gain inspiration for your own Sub-Zero combos. Take note of how top players utilize meter management, stage positioning, and Kameo assists to maximize their damage and pressure. With practice, you‘ll be able to incorporate these advanced strategies into your own gameplay.
Kold Kostumes: Gear and Alternate Skins
In addition to his default appearance, Sub-Zero has several alternate kostumes and gear pieces to unlock in MK1. While these cosmetic options don‘t directly affect gameplay, certain skins can very slightly alter the properties of Sub-Zero‘s combos.
For example, equipping the "Tournament" mask gives Sub-Zero‘s Ice Klone Kick a slightly larger hitbox, making it easier to connect in combos. The rare "Tundra Warrior" skin from the Kombat Pack DLC also speeds up the startup of Sub-Zero‘s Frigid Storm, allowing for tighter links.
While the differences are extremely minor, it‘s something to keep in mind if you‘re looking to fully optimize your combos. Experiment with different gear combinations in training mode to see if you notice any changes in timing or hit detection.
Story Synopsis: Sub-Zero‘s Role in MK1
Note: This section contains light spoilers for the MK1 story mode.
In the MK1 story, Sub-Zero plays a vital role in the rewritten timeline created by Liu Kang. Without getting into specifics, Sub-Zero must confront his past and make difficult decisions that challenge his loyalty to the Lin Kuei clan.
Completing the story mode is worth doing not just for the epic cinematic experience, but also because it unlocks Sub-Zero‘s alternate "Fire and Ice" costume. This skin depicts Sub-Zero wielding both cryomancy and pyromancy, a reference to his MK2 iteration.
While the story doesn‘t affect Sub-Zero‘s core combos, it provides great insight into his updated characterization and relationships with other fighters. Be sure to play through the entire campaign to see Sub-Zero‘s satisfying character arc.
Chill Out and Master Sub-Zero!
Learning Sub-Zero‘s combos in MK1 is all about practice, matchup knowledge, and developing a solid pressure game. Begin by perfecting his core bread and butter combos in training mode, then gradually incorporate Mix-Ups and advanced routes as you get more comfortable. Remember to always change up your offensive approach to keep opponents guessing.
With the strategies and information provided in this guide, you have all the tools you need to dominate with Sub-Zero. Whether you‘re a tournament competitor or just looking to style on your friends, Sub-Zero‘s versatile combo paths allow for endless creative potential.
To stay up-to-date on the latest Sub-Zero tech, be sure to follow professional players on social media and check out community resources like Test Your Might. Best of luck in your journey to becoming an unstoppable force of ice and ninja fury. Now get out there and freeze your foes!
