Fatalities and Fan Service: The Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection Packs a Punch, But the Merch Is the True Star

In the realm of retro game compilations, developer Digital Eclipse has consistently proven itself to be a master of the craft. Their interactive documentaries and meticulous restorations have turned simple re-releases into historical artifacts. Their latest project, the Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, is no different. It’s a comprehensive package that brings together a vast library of classic fighting games, including the holy grail of MK lost media, the arcade version of Mortal Kombat 4. But while the game itself is a must-have for fans, the various physical editions are a true spectacle, with the $150 Kollector’s Edition offering a delightfully absurd Goro statue, while the more reasonably priced Deluxe Edition might just be the better option for those seeking a pure shot of ’90s nostalgia.

A Stuffed Goro and a $150 Price Tag

The centerpiece of the Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection’s most expensive edition is, without a doubt, the Goro controller holder statue. This isn’t your average, highly detailed, static figurine. Instead, it’s a “delightfully stupid” plastic bust of the four-armed Shokan prince with his arms outstretched, ready to cradle your gamepad. It’s an item that is equal parts a tribute to the character and a humorous piece of video game memorabilia. It’s a statement piece, a conversation starter, and a perfect example of the kind of over-the-top, unnecessary-but-irresistible merchandise that has become a staple of collector’s editions. The Kollector’s Edition, priced at a hefty $149.99, also includes a commemorative arcade token, a hardcover art and lore book, and a pin set, all packaged in a numbered collector’s box. The sheer silliness of the Goro statue makes it a unique item that’s sure to be a talking point for fans for years to come.

The Deluxe Edition: A Deeper Dive into Arcade Nostalgia

But while the Goro statue is a wild and wonderful piece of merchandise, the $80 Deluxe Edition might offer a more authentic and meaningful trip down memory lane. Priced at a more accessible $79.99 for the new Nintendo Switch 2 and $69.99 for other platforms, the Deluxe Edition is a treasure trove of physical items that will transport you straight back to the ’90s. The package includes a steelbook case, a magnet, and a variety of paper-based items that are sure to resonate with anyone who spent their youth in a smoky arcade. These include reprints of arcade flyers, mini-marquees for the classic games, and a set of trading cards featuring the iconic arcade cabinets. These items are a physical manifestation of the game’s core documentary-like appeal. They are not just collectibles; they are a part of the rich history of the franchise. For fans who want to relive the glory days of arcade gaming, the Deluxe Edition is a perfect fit. It’s a package that celebrates the history of the game without the added cost and spectacle of a novelty statue.

The Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, which includes over 20 different versions of the first four games and even some of the infamously bad spin-offs, has a digital release date of September 30, 2025, with physical editions shipping on December 12, 2025. With its meticulously crafted interactive documentary and the inclusion of rollback netcode for online play, the game is a must-have for any fan of the franchise. The only question that remains is which edition to choose. Do you opt for the expensive but wonderfully absurd Goro statue, or do you go for the more authentic, arcade-inspired feel of the Deluxe Edition? Either way, you’re getting a masterfully crafted piece of gaming history.