Among the most iconic phrases in video game history, Finish Him! from Mortal Kombat stands in a league of its own. First introduced in the early 1990s, this phrase has transcended the boundaries of gaming and entered mainstream pop culture. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player, hearing those words instantly evokes a sense of anticipation, brutality, and triumph. But the phrase isn’t just a catchline it’s a core mechanic that defines the Mortal Kombat experience and has evolved significantly throughout the game’s history.
Origins of Finish Him in Mortal Kombat
Early Days of the Franchise
The phrase Finish Him! was first introduced in the original Mortal Kombat arcade game released in 1992 by Midway Games. At the end of a match, when one player had depleted their opponent’s health, the announcer would shout Finish Him! (or Finish Her! depending on the opponent). This signaled that the victorious player had a few seconds to perform a special move known as a Fatality.
The Rise of Fatalities
Fatalities are over-the-top finishing moves unique to each character. These gruesome animations often feature dismemberment, decapitation, or other violent effects, meant to shock and entertain players. This feature helped set Mortal Kombat apart from other fighting games of the time, which focused more on speed and style than brutal finishes.
The Cultural Impact of Finish Him!
Pop Culture Reference
Over the years, the phrase has been referenced in movies, TV shows, memes, and even casual conversation. It symbolizes the final moment before victory, whether literal or metaphorical. Its dramatic delivery and the suspense it builds have made it a favorite catchphrase for generations of gamers.
Controversy and Popularity
While Mortal Kombat’s violence drew criticism and led to debates about video game content, it also attracted a loyal fanbase. The Finish Him! moment, paired with the game’s extreme fatalities, was at the heart of these discussions. It contributed to the creation of the ESRB rating system, which is still in use today to classify video game content.
Gameplay Mechanics Behind Finish Him
Timing and Precision
To execute a Fatality, players must memorize specific button combinations and perform them quickly after the Finish Him! prompt. These sequences vary for each character and often involve precise timing and spatial positioning.
Types of Finishers
Over the years, the Mortal Kombat series has expanded its finishing move options. Besides the original Fatalities, players can also perform:
- Brutalities Endings triggered by fulfilling special conditions during combat
- Friendships Humorous or friendly alternative finishes
- Babalities Transforming opponents into babies
- Animalities Turning into animals to finish the opponent
- Stage Fatalities Using the environment to defeat the opponent
Despite these additions, the traditional Finish Him! moment remains a centerpiece of each Mortal Kombat game.
Evolution Across Mortal Kombat Titles
Mortal Kombat (19921995)
The original trilogy established the formula: a fight, followed by the announcer’s cue, and then a gruesome end. These early games had limited graphics but were heavy on shock value and gameplay innovation.
Mortal Kombat 4 and 3D Era (19972006)
As the series transitioned to 3D, Finish Him! became more dynamic. Fatalities were now rendered with better graphics and more complex animations. The core appeal of finishing moves remained, anchoring the series through experimentation.
Reboots and Modern Titles (2011Present)
With the release of Mortal Kombat 9, Mortal Kombat X, and Mortal Kombat 11, the phrase and its implications received a full graphical overhaul. Now, fatalities are cinematic experiences. Every time Finish Him! is heard, players expect a stunning visual spectacle. The developers even introduced practice modes so players could master their finishers.
Character-Specific Fatalities
Memorable Finishers
Each Mortal Kombat character brings a unique set of finishing moves. Some fan-favorite fatalities include:
- Scorpion’s Toasty! Fire Breath A fiery end to any match
- Sub-Zero’s Spine Rip One of the most iconic finishing moves ever
- Johnny Cage’s Split Punch Both humorous and effective
- Noob Saibot’s Shadow Clone Tear Dark and dramatic
These moves reinforce the importance of mastering not just the combat mechanics but also the final blow.
Why Players Love Finish Him!
Sense of Achievement
Hearing the phrase signifies that you’ve dominated your opponent. It’s a reward and an invitation to seal the match in style. Successfully performing a fatality is both satisfying and a badge of skill.
Psychological Edge
The dramatic flair of a well-executed finisher can demoralize an opponent. Especially in multiplayer settings, delivering a flashy fatality adds insult to injury and reinforces dominance.
Replayability and Fun
Players return to Mortal Kombat not just for the fights but to explore all the different ways they can end them. With each character having multiple fatalities, the game encourages experimentation and replay.
Tips for Executing Fatalities
Practice Mode Is Key
Most modern Mortal Kombat games feature a practice area where you can test finishing moves without pressure. Take advantage of this to memorize button combos and refine your speed.
Start with Easier Characters
Some characters have simpler fatalities than others. Beginners often start with characters like Scorpion or Sub-Zero before moving on to more complicated inputs.
Use the Move List
During the match, pause and access the move list. It often includes the commands for fatalities and explains where you should stand (close, mid, or far) to perform them.
The Legacy of Finish Him
More than just a gameplay mechanic, Finish Him! has become a cultural reference point. It symbolizes a critical turning point the final blow not just in games but also in real-life metaphors. From competitive gaming to internet memes, the phrase has remained relevant for over three decades.
Mortal Kombat’s ability to evolve while retaining its core identity is part of why the series remains so beloved. Whether you’re aiming to master every finisher or just enjoy the chaos, there’s no denying the power of that voice declaring: Finish Him!