Mortal Kombat 4, released in 1997, marked a significant transition for the iconic fighting series as it moved from 2D to 3D. This shift brought with it a plethora of new gameplay mechanics, characters, and hidden secrets that have kept fans engaged for years. As a long-time fan of both Nintendo and the Mortal Kombat franchise, I’ve spent countless hours exploring every nook and cranny of this game. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you master the game and uncover its hidden gems.

**Mastering the Basics:**
– **Movement and Controls:** MK4 introduces a 3D environment, which means you need to be proficient with sidestepping, ducking, and jumping. Practice these moves to evade attacks and position yourself for counterattacks.
– **Combos and Special Moves:** Each character has a unique set of special moves and combos. Spend time in the training mode to memorize and perfect these. For example, Jarek’s “Ground Slam” (Down, Forward, Punch) is a powerful move that can catch your opponent off guard.

**Advanced Techniques:**
– **Fatalities and Friendships:** Fatalities are brutal finishing moves, while Friendships are more lighthearted. To perform a Fatality, you must win the final round and be close to your opponent. For example, Goro’s Fatality is performed by pressing Down, Back, Up, High Punch. Friendships, on the other hand, require specific button sequences and are often humorous. Scorpion’s Friendship, for instance, involves him playing a harmonica.
– **Stage Fatalities:** Some stages offer unique ways to finish off your opponent. In the Living Forest, you can trigger a stage fatality by performing a specific move near the edge, causing your opponent to fall into a pit of spikes.

**Hidden Features and Easter Eggs:**
– **Secret Characters:** MK4 includes several secret characters, such as Noob Saibot and Meat. To unlock Noob Saibot, you need to beat the game with Sub-Zero without losing a single round. Meat, a character with no skin, can be unlocked by entering a specific code at the character selection screen.
– **Hidden Stages:** There are also hidden stages that can be accessed through certain codes or by meeting specific conditions. For example, the Pit Stage, a classic from earlier MK games, can be unlocked by entering a code at the main menu.

**Tips for Competitive Play:**
– **Character Synergy:** Choose a character that fits your playstyle. If you prefer aggressive tactics, characters like Shinnok and Reiko are excellent choices. For a more defensive approach, consider using Fujin or Jarek.
– **Mind Games:** The psychological aspect of fighting games is crucial. Use feints and mix-ups to keep your opponent guessing. For example, you can fake a special move and then quickly switch to a different attack.

By mastering these techniques and uncovering the hidden features, you’ll not only enhance your gameplay experience but also gain a deeper appreciation for the rich lore and design of Mortal Kombat 4. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer, there’s always something new to discover in this classic title.