Watch How Mortal Kombat 3 Used Real People for Gaming Sprites [Video]

Get over here! Have you ever wondered how video game characters were created before advanced 3D modeling became the norm? Mortal Kombat 3, a solid fighting game from the ’90s, took an approach that might surprise even die-hard gamers today. Instead of crafting its characters entirely on computers, the game’s developers used real actors performing action sequences on film.

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It worked like this: Actors were cast to portray iconic fighters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Liu Kang. They donned their character outfits and performed moves in front of cameras, including kicks, punches, flips, and many dramatic poses. These live-action segments were then digitized into the game, frame by frame, creating the sprites you see when you pick up the controller. This process added a unique layer of realism to the characters, something few other games from that era could achieve.

Filming and picking frames for sprites

This method might seem outdated or odd for modern gamers accustomed to motion capture suits, hyper-realistic graphics, and fully digital creations. However, at the time, it was a groundbreaking approach that gave the game a unique visual identity and immersive atmosphere. The developers could craft something fresh and distinctive by combining traditional filmmaking techniques with video game design, such as practical effects and creative camera work. While it didn’t revolutionize the industry or dominate sales charts, it gained recognition for its originality and stood out among its peers as a creative blend of two art forms.

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Are you curious to see how this all came together? Check out the video below, where you’ll get a rare peek at the behind-the-scenes process. Watching actors bring these characters to life, combining stage-worthy theatrics with technical precision, is fascinating. It’s not something you see every day; it might change your thoughts about the game. Take a moment to watch, and you’ll be amazed by the mix of creativity and ingenuity that went into making Mortal Kombat 3 a reality.

YouTube: Behind the Scenes – Mortal Kombat 3 [Rare Footage]

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Photo credit: The feature image is a frame from the video and is owned by Midway Games.