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{{short description|Mortal Kombat character}}
{{short description|Mortal Kombat character}}
{{cleanup rewrite|date=March 2023}}
{{cleanup rewrite|date=March 2023}}
{{Infobox character
{{Infobox character
| name = Shao Kahn
| name = Shao Kahn
| image = Shao Kahn 2011.png
| image = Shao Kahn 2011.png
| caption = Shao Kahn by John Tobias
| caption = Shao Kahn by [[John Tobias]]
| series = [[Mortal Kombat]]
| series = [[Mortal Kombat]]
| firstgame = ''[[Mortal Kombat II]]'' (1993)
| firstgame = ''[[Mortal Kombat II]]'' (1993)
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| designer = John Tobias
| designer = John Tobias
| voice = {{Collapsible list |title=Various |[[Steve Ritchie (pinball designer)|Steve Ritchie]] (1993–2005) |[[Frank Welker]] (1995 film) |[[Michael Des Barres]] (animated series) |Nigel Casey (2004–2006) |[[Patrick Seitz]] (''MKvsDC'') |Bob Carter (''MK9'') |[[Ike Amadi]] (2019–present) |[[Fred Tatasciore]] (animated films)}}
| voice = {{Collapsible list |title=Various |[[Steve Ritchie (pinball designer)|Steve Ritchie]] (1993–2005) |[[Frank Welker]] (1995 film) |[[Michael Des Barres]] (animated series) |Nigel Casey (2004–2006) |[[Patrick Seitz]] (''MKvsDC'') |Bob Carter (''MK9'') |[[Ike Amadi]] (2019–present) |[[Fred Tatasciore]] (animated films)}}
| portrayer = {{Collapsible list |title=Various |[[Brian Thompson]] (film) |[[Jeffrey Meek]] (television) |[[Aleks Paunovic]] (web series) |[[Martyn Ford]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://deadline.com/2023/06/mortal-kombat-2-adds-damon-herriman-martyn-ford-more-1235418062/ | title='Mortal Kombat 2': Martyn Ford, Desmond Chiam, Ana Thu Nguyen & Damon Herriman Join New Line Sequel | date=15 June 2023 }}</ref>}}
| portrayer = {{Collapsible list |title=Various |[[Brian Thompson]] (film) |[[Jeffrey Meek]] (television) |[[Aleks Paunovic]] (web series) |[[Martyn Ford (bodybuilder)|Martyn Ford]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://deadline.com/2023/06/mortal-kombat-2-adds-damon-herriman-martyn-ford-more-1235418062/ | title='Mortal Kombat 2': Martyn Ford, Desmond Chiam, Ana Thu Nguyen & Damon Herriman Join New Line Sequel | date=15 June 2023 | access-date=15 June 2023 | archive-date=15 June 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230615172435/https://deadline.com/2023/06/mortal-kombat-2-adds-damon-herriman-martyn-ford-more-1235418062/ | url-status=live }}</ref>}}
| motion_actor = Brian Glynn (''MKII'', ''MK3'', ''UMK3'', ''MKT'', ''MKA'')<br>Jordan Brun (''MKvsDCU'')<br>Stephan Scalabrino (''MK11'')
| motion_actor = Brian Glynn (''MKII'', ''MK3'', ''UMK3'', ''MKT'', ''MKA'')<br>Jordan Brun (''MKvsDCU'')<br>Stephan Scalabrino (''MK11'')
| weapon = [[War hammer]]
| weapon = [[War hammer]]
}}
}}


'''Shao Kahn''' is a fictional character in the ''[[Mortal Kombat]]'' [[fighting game]] franchise by [[Midway Games]] and [[NetherRealm Studios]]. Depicted as [[emperor]] of the fictional realm Outworld, he is one of the franchise's primary villains. Feared for his immense strength, which he complements with a large hammer, and knowledge of [[Maleficium (sorcery)|black magic]], Shao Kahn seeks conquest of all the realms, including Earth. He serves as the final [[Boss (gaming)|boss]] of ''[[Mortal Kombat II]]'' (1993), ''[[Mortal Kombat 3]]'' (1995) and its updates, and the [[Mortal Kombat (2011 video game)|2011 reboot]], as well as the [[action-adventure game|action-adventure]] spin-off ''[[Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks]]'' (2005). An amalgam of Shao Kahn and [[DC Comics]] villain [[Darkseid]] also appears as the final boss of ''[[Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe]]'' (2009) under the name '''Dark Kahn'''.
'''Shao Kahn''' is a fictional character in the ''[[Mortal Kombat]]'' [[fighting game]] franchise by [[Midway Games]] and [[NetherRealm Studios]]. Depicted as [[emperor]] of the fictional realm Outworld, he is one of the franchise's primary villains. Feared for his immense strength, which he complements with a large hammer, and knowledge of [[Maleficium (sorcery)|black magic]], Shao Kahn seeks conquest of all the realms, including Earth. He serves as the main antagonist final [[Boss (gaming)|boss]] of ''[[Mortal Kombat II]]'' (1993), ''[[Mortal Kombat 3]]'' (1995) and its updates, and the [[Mortal Kombat (2011 video game)|2011 reboot]], as well as the [[action-adventure game|action-adventure]] spin-off ''[[Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks]]'' (2005). An amalgam of Shao Kahn and [[DC Comics]] villain [[Darkseid]] also appears as the main antagonist and final boss of ''[[Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe]]'' (2008) under the name '''Dark Kahn'''. A younger persona known as '''General Shao''' appears in ''[[Mortal Kombat 1]]'' (2023).


Shao Kahn is one of the most celebrated villains in video games. While noted as a difficult boss, he has received praise for his design, in-game abilities, and mannerisms, particularly his mocking and taunting of players. The character has appeared in various media outside of the games, including as the main villain of the film ''[[Mortal Kombat Annihilation]]'' (1997).
Shao Kahn is one of the most celebrated villains in video games. Noted as a difficult boss, he has received praise for his design, in-game abilities, and mannerisms, particularly his mocking and taunting of players. The character has appeared in various media outside of the games, including as the main villain of the film ''[[Mortal Kombat Annihilation]]'' (1997).


==Character design and gameplay==
==Character design and gameplay==
[[Image:Shao Kahn comic.jpg|thumb|left|upright|An unmasked Shao Kahn in the ''Mortal Kombat II'' comic book by [[John Tobias]]]]
[[Image:Shao Kahn comic.jpg|thumb|left|upright|An unmasked Shao Kahn in the ''Mortal Kombat II'' comic book by [[John Tobias]]]]


Shao Kahn was inspired by the [[Star Wars]] films, where the audience knew that there was an emperor ruling the universe, but knew nothing else about him. It created a desire in the viewer to want to know more. Tobias had something very similar with [[Shang Tsung]] and Shao Kahn, and for him that came from the feeling he had as a child when he learned more about what made the ''Star Wars'' universe tick in ''[[Empire Strikes Back]]''. Tobias wanted gamers to have that same feeling.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mortalkombatonline.com/t/classic/in-konversation-mortal-kombat-online-vs-john-tobias-part-1/NDYXrilRqJV5|title=In Konversation: Mortal Kombat Online vs John Tobias - Part 1|website=Mortal Kombat Online|date=17 September 2012 |accessdate=June 21, 2023}}</ref> Kahn's attire for ''Mortal Kombat II'' was developed by Mark Runion.<ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=[[GamePro]] |author=Staff |page=117 |title=The Minds Behind Mortal Kombat II |issue=59 |date=June 1994}}</ref> Kahn started out unmasked and with large gnashing teeth similar to [[Baraka (Mortal Kombat)|Baraka]], since everyone from Outworld was originally supposed to be of Baraka's race.<ref>''GamePro'' 58 (May 1994), p.29.</ref> The idea of all inhabitants of Outworld being Tarkatan was later dropped. His identity has only appeared in ''Shaolin Monks'' and ''Mortal Kombat 11''; with the latter revealing an inhuman, but not monstrous, face.
Shao Kahn was inspired by the [[Star Wars]] villain, [[Darth Vader]], where the audience knew that there was an emperor ruling the universe, but knew nothing else about him, creating a desire in the viewer to want to know more. Tobias had something very similar with [[Shang Tsung]] and Shao Kahn, and for him that came from the feeling he had as a child when he learned more about what made the ''Star Wars'' universe tick in ''[[Empire Strikes Back]]''. Tobias wanted gamers to have that same feeling.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mortalkombatonline.com/t/classic/in-konversation-mortal-kombat-online-vs-john-tobias-part-1/NDYXrilRqJV5|title=In Konversation: Mortal Kombat Online vs John Tobias - Part 1|website=Mortal Kombat Online|date=17 September 2012|accessdate=June 21, 2023|archive-date=22 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230622004608/https://www.mortalkombatonline.com/t/classic/in-konversation-mortal-kombat-online-vs-john-tobias-part-1/NDYXrilRqJV5|url-status=live}}</ref> Kahn's attire for ''Mortal Kombat II'' was developed by Mark Runion.<ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=[[GamePro]] |author=Staff |page=117 |title=The Minds Behind Mortal Kombat II |issue=59 |date=June 1994}}</ref> Kahn started out unmasked and with large gnashing teeth similar to [[Baraka (Mortal Kombat)|Baraka]], since everyone from Outworld was originally supposed to be of Baraka's race.<ref>''GamePro'' 58 (May 1994), p.29.</ref> The idea of all inhabitants of Outworld being Tarkatan was later dropped. His identity has only appeared in ''Shaolin Monks'' and ''Mortal Kombat 11''; with the latter revealing an inhuman, but not monstrous, face.


In ''MKII'', Kahn was digitally resized to a taller height to make him tower over the playable characters, and was played by actor and bodybuilder Brian Glynn.<ref>''GamePro'' 59 (June 1994), p.121.</ref> In many official depictions of Shao Kahn made by [[Midway Games|Midway]], he is shown wearing a cape, though he never wore one in his original digitized appearances. ''Mortal Kombat: Deception'' was the first time in which he wore the cape in-game. ''Mortal Kombat'' sound designer Dan Forden explained that the reason for Kahn not wearing the cape in earlier games, in addition to [[Kabal (Mortal Kombat)|Kabal]] not being able to wear a trenchcoat in ''Mortal Kombat 3'', was that loose flowing clothing took up memory.
In ''MKII'', Kahn was digitally resized to a taller height to make him tower over the playable characters, and was played by actor and bodybuilder Brian Glynn.<ref>''GamePro'' 59 (June 1994), p.121.</ref> Glynn considered Shao Kahn as a positive experience, recalling his time with John Parish (Jax) who recommended him for the role Kahn. During the audition, artist John Tobias requested him to expose his chest which resulted in his quick inclusion in the game as the actor did not have to perform martial arts. Parish's role as Kahn was popular within the Midway stuff to the point they requested him help with other projects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqZ-pnjRD0g|title=Celebrity Interview with BRIAN GLYNN aka Shao Khan from "Mortal Kombat 2" - Game On Expo 2017|website=Youtube|date=11 January 2018 |access-date=September 10, 2023|archive-date=September 18, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918105749/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqZ-pnjRD0g|url-status=live}}</ref> In many official depictions of Shao Kahn made by [[Midway Games|Midway]], he is shown wearing a cape, though he never wore one in his original digitized appearances. ''Mortal Kombat: Deception'' was the first time in which he wore the cape in-game. ''Mortal Kombat'' sound designer Dan Forden explained that the reason for Kahn not wearing the cape in earlier games, in addition to [[Kabal (Mortal Kombat)|Kabal]] not being able to wear a trenchcoat in ''Mortal Kombat 3'', was that loose flowing clothing took up memory.


Shao Kahn originated as an unplayable boss character in ''MKII''. He is fought as a boss (in most cases, the final boss) in most of his appearances, but became a [[player character]] for the first time in the home ports of ''MK3'' as an unlockable character. He would also be playable in the home ports of ''[[Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3]]'', ''[[Mortal Kombat Trilogy]]'', the GameCube and [[PlayStation Portable]] versions of ''Mortal Kombat: Deception'', ''Mortal Kombat: Armageddon'' and ''Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe''. Shao Kahn also appears as a playable character in ''Mortal Kombat 11'' via DLC. In ''Mortal Kombat'' (2011), Shao Kahn is once again a non-playable boss. He is also the final boss in the [[beat 'em up]] spin-off, ''Shaolin Monks''.
Shao Kahn originated as an unplayable boss character in ''MKII''. He is fought as a boss (in most cases, the final boss) in most of his appearances, but became a [[player character]] for the first time in the home ports of ''MK3'' as an unlockable character. He would also be playable in the home ports of ''[[Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3]]'', ''[[Mortal Kombat Trilogy]]'', the [[GameCube]] and [[PlayStation Portable]] versions of ''Mortal Kombat: Deception'', ''Mortal Kombat: Armageddon'' and ''Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe''. Shao Kahn also appears as a playable character in ''Mortal Kombat 11'' via DLC. In ''Mortal Kombat'' (2011), Shao Kahn is once again a non-playable boss. He is also the final boss in the [[beat 'em up]] spin-off, ''Shaolin Monks''.


Shao Kahn's special moves consist mainly of powerful shoulder barges, magical projectiles, and attacks with his signature giant [[War hammer|maul]], the "Wrath Hammer". In some of his appearances as a boss, blocking Kahn's attacks will stun the player. Since his debut, his signature tactic has been taunting players before, during, and after rounds with such statements as "Bow to me!", "Feel the power of Shao Kahn!", and "It's official, you suck!"
Shao Kahn's special moves consist mainly of powerful shoulder barges, magical projectiles, and attacks with his signature giant [[War hammer|maul]], the "Wrath Hammer". In some of his appearances as a boss, blocking Kahn's attacks will stun the player. Since his debut, his signature tactic has been taunting players before, during, and after rounds with such statements as "Bow to me!", "Feel the power of Shao Kahn!", and "It's official, you suck!"
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==Appearances==
==Appearances==
===''Mortal Kombat'' games===
===''Mortal Kombat'' games===
The Emperor of Outworld, Shao Kahn first appears in ''[[Mortal Kombat II]]'' as the game's final boss and main villain. Kahn invokes a tournament rematch against Etherealm clause which will allow him to take Earthrealm immediately if he wins. Though he lures Earthrealm's warriors to Outworld to kill them, he is defeated by the Shaolin Monk [[Liu Kang]], who halts his plans. He once again returns as the boss in ''[[Mortal Kombat 3]]''. The game's story sees Shang Tsung resurrect Queen Sindel in Earthrealm, allowing Kahn to reclaim her by invading Earth; ignoring the Mortal Kombat tournament's rules. The Emperor strips billions of people's souls to empower himself and merges Earthrealm with Outworld. He also sends extermination squads to kill Raiden's chosen few but is once again defeated by Liu Kang.
Shao Kahn first appears as the final boss of ''[[Mortal Kombat II]]'' and ''[[Mortal Kombat 3]]''. In the former, he invokes a rematch against Earthrealm and faces them in Mortal Kombat to facilitate an invasion of Earthrealm, only to be defeated and foiled by [[Liu Kang]]. In the latter game, [[Shang Tsung]] resurrects Queen [[Sindel]] so Shao can use her to mount another invasion of Earthrealm. Ignoring the Mortal Kombat's rules, Shao steals billions of souls from Earthrealm to empower himself and merge it with Outworld as well as sends extermination squads to kill [[Raiden (Mortal Kombat)|Raiden]]'s chosen warriors, only to be defeated by Liu Kang once more.


Shao Kahn has a brief cameo in ''[[Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance]]'' where he is killed by the Shang Tsung and the sorcerer [[Quan Chi]]. Shao Kahn also makes a playable appearance in the [[GameCube]] version of ''[[Mortal Kombat: Deception]]'', where it is revealed that the Deadly Alliance killed a decoy of the emperor as the real Shao Kahn had set out to reclaim his empire from the resurrected dragon king [[List of Mortal Kombat characters#Onaga|Onaga]]. In ''[[Mortal Kombat: Armageddon]]'', Shao Kahn returned as a playable character. In the game's story, he reclaimed his title as ruler of Outworld following Onaga's defeat. He later forms an uneasy alliance with Quan Chi, Shang Tsung, and Onaga to defeat the elemental [[List of Mortal Kombat characters#Blaze|Blaze]] so they can seize his godlike powers.
Shao makes a cameo appearance in ''[[Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance]]'', in which he is seemingly killed by the titular Deadly Alliance. In ''[[Mortal Kombat: Deception]]'', in which he appears as a playable character in the [[GameCube]] version, it is revealed the Deadly Alliance killed a decoy while the real Shao set out to reclaim his empire from [[Onaga (Mortal Kombat)|Onaga]]. In ''[[Mortal Kombat: Armageddon]]'', in which he also appears as a playable character, he succeeded in defeating Onaga before forming a fragile alliance with him and the Deadly Alliance to defeat [[Blaze (character)|Blaze]] and seize his godlike power.


Shao Kahn appears as a playable character in and the final boss of ''[[Mortal Kombat (2011 video game)|Mortal Kombat]]'' (2011). After successfully obtaining Blaze's power, he attempts to kill Raiden until the latter sends a message back to his past self to avert the events of ''Armageddon''. In the subsequently altered timeline, when Shao mounts his invasion of Earthrealm while ignoring Mortal Kombat's rules, the enraged Elder Gods empower Raiden, allowing him to kill Shao.
Shao Kahn and [[Darkseid]] are the key villains in the 2008 crossover game ''[[Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe]]'', though both are playable characters. In parallel merges with Darkseid in the [[DC Universe]], resulting in the creation of Dark Kahn, who serves as the main antagonist of the game. After Dark Kahn is defeated, Shao Kahn ends up in Darkseid's throne room, where he discovers he has lost his powers before being imprisoned in the [[Phantom Zone]]. However, his powers soon came back and he was able to free himself along with everyone else in the Phantom Zone; who pledged their allegiance to him in return.


A past version of Shao appears as a playable character in ''[[Mortal Kombat 11]]'' (''MK11''). After being brought to the present by [[Kronika (Mortal Kombat)|Kronika]] and promised a timeline without Raiden, he agrees to work for her.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 2: Timequake (Kotal Kahn)}}</ref> Amidst this, he attempts to retake his throne from [[Kotal Kahn]] and rebuild Outworld's forces until he is defeated by [[Kitana]].<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 5: Truths Revealed (Jade)}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 7: Coming of Age (Kitana)}}</ref> In the DLC storyline expansion ''[[Mortal Kombat 11#Aftermath|Aftermath]]'', Shang Tsung reunites Shao and Sindel to help him steal Kronika's Crown of Souls.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11#Aftermath|Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 14: Guardian for Life (Sheeva)}}</ref> The tyrants betray Earthrealm and Outworld's forces and assist Shang Tsung in assaulting Kronika's keep until they are betrayed in turn by him.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11#Aftermath|Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 16: Visions of Empire (Sindel & Shao Kahn)}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11#Aftermath|Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 17: Checkmate (Shang Tsung)}}</ref>
In the 2011 [[Mortal Kombat (2011 video game)|''Mortal Kombat'' reboot]], which retells the continuity of the first three games, Shao Kahn is once again the main villain and final boss of the game's arcade ladder and story mode. Shao Kahn kills Raiden after acquiring Blaze's powers, but Raiden is able to send prophetic messages to his past self. As Shao Kahn invades Earthrealm, Raiden chooses not to intervene until the Elder Gods, enraged by the former's violation of the Mortal Kombat tournament's rules, empower Raiden and allow him to kill the emperor.


In ''[[Mortal Kombat 11]]'', a past version of Shao Kahn is brought to the present timeline by [[List of Mortal Kombat characters#Kronika|Kronika]], the keeper of time. He agrees to work for Kronika after learning that she is planning to rewind the timeline and wipe Raiden from existence.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 2: Timequake (Kotal Kahn)}}</ref> He attempts to take his throne back from Kotal and rebuild Outworld's forces,<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 5: Truths Revealed (Jade)}}</ref> but he is defeated by Kitana, who becomes the new ruler of Outworld and Kotal's successor.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 7: Coming of Age (Kitana)}}</ref> In the DLC storyline expansion ''[[Mortal Kombat 11#Aftermath|Aftermath]]'', Shao Kahn and Sindel are reunited after to help fight Kronika.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11#Aftermath|Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 14: Guardian for Life (Sheeva)}}</ref> Intending to take Kronika's Crown of Souls for themselves, the tyrants defeat Kitana and Liu Kang and assault Kronika's keep.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11#Aftermath|Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 16: Visions of Empire (Sindel & Shao Kahn)}}</ref> However, they are betrayed by Shang Tsung, who absorbs their souls.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 11#Aftermath|Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2019 |level=Chapter 17: Checkmate (Shang Tsung)}}</ref>
A new incarnation of Shao named '''General Shao''' appears as a playable character in ''[[Mortal Kombat 1]]'' (''MK1'').<ref>{{cite web |title=Game Info |url=https://www.mortalkombat.com/en-us/game |website=www.mortalkombat.com/ |access-date=2023-09-16 |archive-date=2023-06-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230630043324/https://www.mortalkombat.com/en-us/game |url-status=live }}</ref> After Fire God Liu Kang creates a second new timeline, Shao was born a sickly child into a proud military family before his father molded him into the perfect soldier. By the present, Shao became commander of Outworld's armies and a staunch Outworld patriot. Believing Outworld should conquer Earthrealm, he openly disagrees with Empress Sindel's policies, but makes no move against her until Shang Tsung and [[Quan Chi]] help him mount a rebellion against her, only to be foiled by her and Liu Kang.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 1]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2023 |level=Chapter 12: Queen's Gambit (Mileena)}}</ref> Following this, Shao is arrested and replaced by [[Kitana]], though he later escapes prison and rallies followers to help him rebel against Outworld's royalty and tame Onaga for use in his plans.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Mortal Kombat 1]] |developer=NetherRealm Studios |publisher= Warner Bros.|date=2023 |level= Tower Mode }}</ref>


===Other media===
===Other media===
{{Multiple issues|section=yes|
Shao Kahn makes his first appearance in [[Mortal Kombat (comics)|''MK'' comic books]] during the ''Battlewave'' miniseries by [[Malibu Comics]], though he already was present in the first, ''Blood & Thunder''. Shao Kahn remains faithful to his game counterpart, being the Emperor of Outworld and attempting to take Earthrealm for himself. In ''Battlewave'', Shao Kahn would arrange a different plan to open the portals. He kidnaps [[Sonya Blade]] and, by means of hypnosis and brainwashing, convinces her to marry him; the marriage would weaken the barriers between realms enough to allow Shao Kahn to seize Earth easily. During these two series, he never appears wielding his trademark helmet, only in the comic ''Kitana & Mileena''.
{{prose|section|date=September 2023}}
{{more citations needed section|date=September 2023}}}}
Shao Kahn appears in the [[Mortal Kombat (comics)|''Mortal Kombat'' comic book]] miniseries ''Blood & Thunder'' and ''Battlewave''. In the latter, he kidnaps [[Sonya Blade]] and brainwashes her into marrying him to weaken the barrier between Outworld and Earthrealm so he can easily seize the latter.


Shao Kahn appears in the first two theatrically released ''Mortal Kombat'' films. In the 1995 [[Mortal Kombat (1995 film)|first movie]] he is referred to simply as "The Emperor" and makes a brief appearance at the end, as a special effect and voiced by [[Frank Welker]]. Kahn, played by [[Brian Thompson]], is the antagonist in the 1997 sequel, ''[[Mortal Kombat: Annihilation]]''. In the film, Kahn and Raiden are portrayed as brothers, with Shinnok as their father, though neither of them share any relation in the games (though the later ''Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe'' states that the two are brothers in Raiden's biography).
Shao Kahn, referred to simply as the "Emperor", makes a cameo appearance in ''[[Mortal Kombat (1995 film)|Mortal Kombat]]'' (1995) via special effects, voiced by [[Frank Welker]]. Shao would later appear in ''[[Mortal Kombat Annihilation]]'', portrayed by [[Brian Thompson]]. For this appearance, he is depicted as Raiden's brother and son of [[Shinnok]].


He was played by Jeffrey D. Harris<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/09/16/arts/pop-review-heroes-in-outworld-fighting-to-save-the-earth.html |title=POP REVIEW; Heroes in Outworld, Fighting to Save the Earth - New York Times |work=[[The New York Times]] |date=1995-09-16 |access-date=2012-01-05}}</ref> and Ted Nordblum in the 1995-1996 stage show ''[[Mortal Kombat: Live Tour]]''. A Shao Kahn [[action figure]] was released in 1996 by Toy Island in the ''Mortal Kombat Trilogy'' series.<ref>{{cite web|author=Captain Coder |url=http://www.figurerealm.com/actionfigure.php?FID=11603&figure=shaokahn |title=Shao Kahn Action Figure Gallery |publisher=Figure Realm |access-date=2013-07-20}}</ref> He was also one of the characters featured in the collectible card game ''[[Mortal Kombat Kard Game]]''.
Shao Kahn appears in ''[[Mortal Kombat: Live Tour]]'', played by Jeffrey D. Harris<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/09/16/arts/pop-review-heroes-in-outworld-fighting-to-save-the-earth.html |title=POP REVIEW; Heroes in Outworld, Fighting to Save the Earth - New York Times |work=[[The New York Times]] |date=1995-09-16 |access-date=2012-01-05 |archive-date=2018-06-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180620003016/https://www.nytimes.com/1995/09/16/arts/pop-review-heroes-in-outworld-fighting-to-save-the-earth.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and Ted Nordblum.


Shao Khan received an action figure from Toy Island as part of their ''Mortal Kombat Trilogy'' series.<ref>{{cite web |author=Captain Coder |url=http://www.figurerealm.com/actionfigure.php?FID=11603&figure=shaokahn |title=Shao Kahn Action Figure Gallery |publisher=Figure Realm |access-date=2013-07-20 |archive-date=2012-04-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402031307/http://www.figurerealm.com/actionfigure.php?FID=11603&figure=shaokahn |url-status=live }}</ref>
Shao Kahn was played by [[Jeffrey Meek]] in the TV series ''[[Mortal Kombat: Conquest]]''. He serves as the mediator of the Mortal Kombat matches. Meek played opposite himself in the series finale, where Kahn battles Raiden in a void seemingly between the realms. With Kung Lao dead, Shao Kahn forces Raiden into submission and commences full military assault on Earthrealm. He also makes several appearances in the cartoon series ''[[Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm]]'', voiced by [[John Vernon]], in his usual role of Outworld's emperor and the leader of the enemy forces. [[Aleks Paunovic]] portrayed an human Shao Kahn for the web series ''[[Mortal Kombat: Legacy]]'' two-part episode "Kitana & Mileena", dealing with his early rule over the conquered Edenia and an alternate version of his relationship to Sindel, Kitana and Mileena.


Shao Kahn appears in the ''[[Mortal Kombat Kard Game]]''.
⚫
Shao Kahn appears in the animated film ''[[Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion's Revenge]]'' and the sequel ''[[Mortal Kombat Legends: Battle of the Realms]]'', voiced by [[Fred Tatasciore]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Couch|first=Aaron|date=2021-06-16|title=Animated 'Mortal Kombat Legends' Sequel Arriving This Summer (Exclusive) |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/mortal-kombat-legends-battle-of-the-realms-cast-1234968317/|access-date=2021-06-16|website=The Hollywood Reporter |language=en-US}}</ref>


Shao Kahn appears in ''[[Mortal Kombat: Conquest]]'', portrayed by [[Jeffrey Meek]]. For this appearance, he serves as the mediator of the Mortal Kombat tournaments.
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Shao Kahn is set to appear in the sequel to the [[Mortal Kombat (2021 film)|2021 reboot]], portrayed by [[Martyn Ford (bodybuilder)|Martyn Ford]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://thathashtagshow.com/2023/04/17/meet-the-new-characters-of-mortal-kombat-2-exclusive/|title=MEET THE NEW CHARACTERS OF 'MORTAL KOMBAT 2' [EXCLUSIVE]|website=That Hashtag Show|last=Bolding|first=Hunter|date=April 17, 2023|access-date=April 18, 2023}}</ref>

Shao Kahn appears in ''[[Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm]]'', voiced by [[John Vernon]].

Shao Kahn appears as a playable character in ''[[Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe]]''. After Raiden and [[Superman]] inadvertently fuse Shao Kahn and [[Darkseid]] into '''Dark Kahn''', the former pair unite warriors from their respective dimensions to stop and separate them, with Shao being trapped in Superman's universe and imprisoned in the [[Phantom Zone]].

Shao Kahn appears in the ''[[Mortal Kombat: Legacy]]'' two-part episode "Kitana & Mileena", portrayed by [[Aleks Paunovic]]. This version truly loved Sindel and Kitana and created Mileena to have someone who would reciprocate his feelings.

⚫
Shao Kahn appears in ''[[Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion's Revenge]]'' and ''[[Mortal Kombat Legends: Battle of the Realms]]'', voiced by [[Fred Tatasciore]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Couch|first=Aaron|date=2021-06-16|title=Animated 'Mortal Kombat Legends' Sequel Arriving This Summer (Exclusive)|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/mortal-kombat-legends-battle-of-the-realms-cast-1234968317/|access-date=2021-06-16|website=The Hollywood Reporter|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-06-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210616160645/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/mortal-kombat-legends-battle-of-the-realms-cast-1234968317/|url-status=live}}</ref>

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Shao Kahn is set to appear in ''[[Mortal Kombat 2 (film)|Mortal Kombat 2]]'', portrayed by [[Martyn Ford (bodybuilder)|Martyn Ford]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://thathashtagshow.com/2023/04/17/meet-the-new-characters-of-mortal-kombat-2-exclusive/|title=MEET THE NEW CHARACTERS OF 'MORTAL KOMBAT 2' [EXCLUSIVE]|website=That Hashtag Show|last=Bolding|first=Hunter|date=April 17, 2023|access-date=April 18, 2023|archive-date=April 17, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230417232323/https://thathashtagshow.com/2023/04/17/meet-the-new-characters-of-mortal-kombat-2-exclusive/|url-status=live}}</ref>


==Reception==
==Reception==
Shao Kahn was nominated in [[Nintendo Power]] Awards '94<ref>''Nintendo Power'' 70 (March 1995)</ref> and '95<ref>''Nintendo Power'' 82 (March 1996)</ref> in the category "Worst Villain" (actually honoring the top video-game villains) of the year, coming second place in 1995.<ref>''Nintendo Power'' 85 (May 1996)</ref> [[GamesRadar]] praised Shao Kahn's role as an antagonist, putting him in their 2013 list of the best villains in video game history at number 24,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/top-100-villains-video-games/|title=100 best villains in video games|publisher=GamesRadar |author=GamesRadar Staff|date=May 17, 2013 |access-date=June 21, 2013}}</ref> and including him among the 12 most unfair gaming bosses in 2014.<ref name=gr>{{cite web|last=Sullivan |first=Lucas |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/12-unfair-fighting-game-bosses-almost-made-us-rage-quit/ |title=Hardest fighting game bosses &#124; GamesRadar |publisher=Gamesradar.com |date= 14 April 2014|accessdate=2022-01-11}}</ref> ''[[Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition]]'' listed Shao Kahn as 41st in their list of "top 50 video game villains".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.digitalspy.com/videogames/a453360/guinness-world-records-counts-down-top-50-video-game-villains/ |title=Bowser voted top of 50 video game villains |publisher=Digitalspy.com |date=2013-01-24 |accessdate=2022-01-11}}</ref> ''[[Complex (magazine)|Complex]]'' ranked Shao Kahn from ''Mortal Kombat II'' as the "coolest" boss in fighting game history in 2012, stating that "in the history of fighting games, no boss has ever been cooler or more exciting to lose against."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/video-games/2012/03/15-of-the-coolest-boss-battles-ever/shao-khan |title=Shao Khan — 15 Of The Coolest Boss Battles Ever |publisher=Complex |access-date=2013-07-20}}</ref> The ''GamesRadar'' staff described Shao Kahn as the best villain in video games, stating that "There are plenty of bad guys in the Mortal Kombat games, but the Emperor of Outworld, Shao Kahn, takes the wickedness cake."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/villains-in-video-games/ |title=The best villains in video games &#124; GamesRadar |publisher=Gamesradar.com |date= |accessdate=2022-01-11}}</ref>
Shao Kahn was nominated in ''[[Nintendo Power]]'' Awards '94<ref>''Nintendo Power'' 70 (March 1995)</ref> and '95<ref>''Nintendo Power'' 82 (March 1996)</ref> in the category "Worst Villain" (actually honoring the top video-game villains) of the year, coming second place in 1995.<ref>''Nintendo Power'' 85 (May 1996)</ref> ''[[GamesRadar]]'' praised Shao Kahn's role as an antagonist, putting him in their 2013 list of the best villains in video game history at number 24,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesradar.com/top-100-villains-video-games/|title=100 best villains in video games|publisher=GamesRadar|author=GamesRadar Staff|date=May 17, 2013|access-date=June 21, 2013|archive-date=June 24, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130624192529/http://www.gamesradar.com/top-100-villains-video-games/|url-status=live}}</ref> and including him among the 12 most unfair gaming bosses in 2014.<ref name=gr>{{cite web |last=Sullivan |first=Lucas |url=http://www.gamesradar.com/12-unfair-fighting-game-bosses-almost-made-us-rage-quit/ |title=Hardest fighting game bosses &#124; GamesRadar |publisher=Gamesradar.com |date=14 April 2014 |accessdate=2022-01-11 |archive-date=2017-12-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171211043519/http://www.gamesradar.com/12-unfair-fighting-game-bosses-almost-made-us-rage-quit/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition]]'' listed Shao Kahn as 41st in their list of "top 50 video game villains".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/videogames/a453360/guinness-world-records-counts-down-top-50-video-game-villains/ |title=Bowser voted top of 50 video game villains |publisher=Digitalspy.com |date=2013-01-24 |accessdate=2022-01-11 |archive-date=2021-10-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019044354/https://www.digitalspy.com/videogames/a453360/guinness-world-records-counts-down-top-50-video-game-villains/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Complex (magazine)|Complex]]'' ranked Shao Kahn from ''Mortal Kombat II'' as the "coolest" boss in fighting game history in 2012, stating that "in the history of fighting games, no boss has ever been cooler or more exciting to lose against."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.complex.com/video-games/2012/03/15-of-the-coolest-boss-battles-ever/shao-khan |title=Shao Khan — 15 Of The Coolest Boss Battles Ever |publisher=Complex |access-date=2013-07-20 |archive-date=2013-10-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029164726/http://www.complex.com/video-games/2012/03/15-of-the-coolest-boss-battles-ever/shao-khan |url-status=dead }}</ref> The ''GamesRadar'' staff described Shao Kahn as the best villain in video games, stating that "There are plenty of bad guys in the Mortal Kombat games, but the Emperor of Outworld, Shao Kahn, takes the wickedness cake."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/villains-in-video-games/ |title=The best villains in video games &#124; GamesRadar |publisher=Gamesradar.com |date= |accessdate=2022-01-11 |archive-date=2018-11-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181126045653/https://www.gamesradar.com/villains-in-video-games/ |url-status=live }}</ref>


In [[UGO Networks|UGO]]'s 2012 list of the top ''Mortal Kombat'' characters, Shao Kahn placed sixteenth.<ref>{{cite web |author=UGO Team |url=http://www.ugo.com/games/mortal-kombat-characters?page=4 |title=Top 50 Mortal Kombat Characters - Mortal Kombat |publisher=UGO.com |date=2012-02-28 |access-date=2012-03-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120929141220/http://www.ugo.com/games/mortal-kombat-characters?page=4 |archive-date=2012-09-29 }}</ref> In their retrospection listing of ''MK'' characters, UGO stated most favorite thing about him was the fact that "his speaking voice is the voice of the [[announcer]] heard throughout the series."<ref>{{cite web |author=UGO Team |url=http://www.ugo.com/games/mortal-kombat-characters-shao-kahn |title=Shao Kahn |publisher=UGO.com |date=2012-02-28 |access-date=2013-07-20 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130316074314/http://www.ugo.com/games/mortal-kombat-characters-shao-kahn |archive-date=2013-03-16 }}</ref> ''Complex'' placed him seventh on her 2013 list of most brutal fighters in ''Mortal Kombat'', adding that "he was brutal not only in his strength but his cunning, too."<ref>Hanuman Welch, [http://www.complex.com/video-games/2013/07/brutal-fighters-mortal-kombat/shang-tsung The Most Brutal Fighters In "Mortal Kombat"], Complex.com, July 21, 2013.</ref> On the other hand, GamesRadar felt that Shao Kahn was more anticlimatic when compared to the subboss Kintaro as he viewed Kintaro as a more menacing character in contrast to the Emperor who was compared with He-Man in a negative fashion in terms of design.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/top-7-minibosses-who-were-better-final-boss/|title=Top 7 Minibosses Who Were Better than The Final Boss|accessdate=June 21, 2023|website=GamesRadar|date=9 March 2016 }}</ref> When a mask of Shao Kahn was made for sale, ''Game Informer'' noticed that it was one of the few times people had the chance to see boss' true face, comparing him to a [[Star Trek]] alien.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2012/05/22/shao-kahn-39-s-statue-gives-a-glimpse-behind-the-mask.aspx|title=Shao Kahn Statue Gives a Glimpse Behind the Mask|magazine=[[Game Informer]] |accessdate=June 21, 2023|date=May 22, 2012}}</ref>
In [[UGO Networks|UGO]]'s 2012 list of the top ''Mortal Kombat'' characters, Shao Kahn placed sixteenth.<ref>{{cite web |author=UGO Team |url=http://www.ugo.com/games/mortal-kombat-characters?page=4 |title=Top 50 Mortal Kombat Characters - Mortal Kombat |publisher=UGO.com |date=2012-02-28 |access-date=2012-03-15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120929141220/http://www.ugo.com/games/mortal-kombat-characters?page=4 |archive-date=2012-09-29 }}</ref> In their retrospection listing of ''MK'' characters, UGO stated most favorite thing about him was the fact that "his speaking voice is the voice of the [[announcer]] heard throughout the series."<ref>{{cite web |author=UGO Team |url=http://www.ugo.com/games/mortal-kombat-characters-shao-kahn |title=Shao Kahn |publisher=UGO.com |date=2012-02-28 |access-date=2013-07-20 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130316074314/http://www.ugo.com/games/mortal-kombat-characters-shao-kahn |archive-date=2013-03-16 }}</ref> ''Complex'' placed him seventh on her 2013 list of most brutal fighters in ''Mortal Kombat'', adding that "he was brutal not only in his strength but his cunning, too."<ref>Hanuman Welch, [http://www.complex.com/video-games/2013/07/brutal-fighters-mortal-kombat/shang-tsung The Most Brutal Fighters In "Mortal Kombat"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131215175740/http://www.complex.com/video-games/2013/07/brutal-fighters-mortal-kombat/shang-tsung |date=2013-12-15 }}, Complex.com, July 21, 2013.</ref> On the other hand, GamesRadar felt that Shao Kahn was more anticlimactic when compared to the subboss Kintaro as he viewed Kintaro as a more menacing character in contrast to the Emperor who was compared with He-Man in a negative fashion in terms of design.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/top-7-minibosses-who-were-better-final-boss/|title=Top 7 Minibosses Who Were Better than The Final Boss|accessdate=June 21, 2023|website=GamesRadar|date=9 March 2016|archive-date=21 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230621213618/https://www.gamesradar.com/top-7-minibosses-who-were-better-final-boss/|url-status=live}}</ref> When a mask of Shao Kahn was made for sale, ''Game Informer'' noticed that it was one of the few times people had the chance to see boss' true face, comparing him to a ''[[Star Trek]]'' alien.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2012/05/22/shao-kahn-39-s-statue-gives-a-glimpse-behind-the-mask.aspx|title=Shao Kahn Statue Gives a Glimpse Behind the Mask|magazine=[[Game Informer]]|access-date=June 21, 2023|date=May 22, 2012|archive-date=June 21, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230621213618/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2012/05/22/shao-kahn-39-s-statue-gives-a-glimpse-behind-the-mask.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref>


''[[Game Informer]]'' featured him on their list of gaming's "crappiest" fathers, commenting he due to his misbehaviour with his wife Sindel and his adopted daughter Kitana.<ref>[http://gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2010/09/09/gamings-crappiest-dads.aspx "Gaming's Crappiest Fathers"], ''[[Game Informer]]'', September 09, 2010</ref> The character's incarnation in the 2011 ''Mortal Kombat'' has been criticized for how hard it is to defeat him to the point of frustrating gamers;<ref name="gamespot">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/mortal-kombat/review.html|title=Mortal Kombat Review|publisher=GameSpot|date=2011-04-20|access-date=2011-07-07|author=Walton, Mark}}</ref><ref name="IGNreview">{{cite web|first=Ryan|last=Clements|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/116/1162160p1.html|title=Mortal Kombat Review|publisher=IGN.com|date=2011-04-19}}</ref> that same year, [[Mandatory (company)|CraveOnline]] included him on the list of top five "bosses you want to kill but can't".<ref>{{cite web |first=Erik |last=Norris |url=http://www.craveonline.com/gaming/articles/168613-5-bosses-you-want-to-kill-but-cant |title=5 Bosses You Want To Kill But Can't |publisher=CraveOnline |date=2011-05-30 |access-date=2013-07-20 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130630154403/http://www.craveonline.com/gaming/articles/168613-5-bosses-you-want-to-kill-but-cant |archive-date=2013-06-30 }}</ref> The fight against Shao Kahn in ''Mortal Kombat 3'' was also noted for its difficulty; in 2013, ''Complex'' ranked it as the 23rd hardest boss battle in video games.<ref>Elijah Watson, [http://www.complex.com/video-games/2013/07/50-hardest-video-game-bosses-how-beat-them/mortal The 50 Hardest Video Game Bosses (And How To Beat Them)], Complex.com, July 1, 2013.</ref> Kahn's portrayal in ''Mortal Kombat 11'' was the subject of controversy for him referencing President [[Donald Trump]] and his slogan but under the name "Make Outworld Great Again".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerevolution.com/news/529225-mortal-kombat-11-make-outworld-great-again-donald-trump|website=Game Revolution|accessdate=July 1, 2023|title=Mortal Kombat 11 has a 'Make Outworld Great Again' Trump reference|date=23 April 2019 }}</ref>
''[[Game Informer]]'' featured him on their list of gaming's "crappiest" fathers, commenting he due to his misbehaviour with his wife Sindel and his adopted daughter Kitana.<ref>[http://gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2010/09/09/gamings-crappiest-dads.aspx "Gaming's Crappiest Fathers"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100912162145/http://gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2010/09/09/gamings-crappiest-dads.aspx? |date=2010-09-12 }}, ''[[Game Informer]]'', September 09, 2010</ref> The character's incarnation in the 2011 ''Mortal Kombat'' has been criticized for how hard it is to defeat him to the point of frustrating gamers;<ref name="gamespot">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/mortal-kombat/review.html|title=Mortal Kombat Review|publisher=GameSpot|date=2011-04-20|access-date=2011-07-07|author=Walton, Mark|archive-date=2011-06-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110630040259/http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/mortal-kombat/review.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="IGNreview">{{cite web|first=Ryan|last=Clements|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/116/1162160p1.html|title=Mortal Kombat Review|publisher=IGN.com|date=2011-04-19|access-date=2011-09-17|archive-date=2011-04-19|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110419132159/http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/116/1162160p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> that same year, [[Mandatory (company)|CraveOnline]] included him on the list of top five "bosses you want to kill but can't".<ref>{{cite web |first=Erik |last=Norris |url=http://www.craveonline.com/gaming/articles/168613-5-bosses-you-want-to-kill-but-cant |title=5 Bosses You Want To Kill But Can't |publisher=CraveOnline |date=2011-05-30 |access-date=2013-07-20 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130630154403/http://www.craveonline.com/gaming/articles/168613-5-bosses-you-want-to-kill-but-cant |archive-date=2013-06-30 }}</ref> The fight against Shao Kahn in ''Mortal Kombat 3'' was also noted for its difficulty; in 2013, ''Complex'' ranked it as the 23rd hardest boss battle in video games.<ref>Elijah Watson, [http://www.complex.com/video-games/2013/07/50-hardest-video-game-bosses-how-beat-them/mortal The 50 Hardest Video Game Bosses (And How To Beat Them)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130705194546/http://www.complex.com/video-games/2013/07/50-hardest-video-game-bosses-how-beat-them/mortal |date=2013-07-05 }}, Complex.com, July 1, 2013.</ref> Kahn's portrayal in ''Mortal Kombat 11'' was the subject of controversy for him referencing President [[Donald Trump]] and his slogan but under the name "Make Outworld Great Again".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerevolution.com/news/529225-mortal-kombat-11-make-outworld-great-again-donald-trump|website=Game Revolution|accessdate=July 1, 2023|title=Mortal Kombat 11 has a 'Make Outworld Great Again' Trump reference|date=23 April 2019|archive-date=1 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701231143/https://www.gamerevolution.com/news/529225-mortal-kombat-11-make-outworld-great-again-donald-trump|url-status=live}}</ref>


[[VentureBeat]] found Shao Khan highly difficult to defeat in most of his appearances, resulting in the need for the player to come up with strategies need to kill the boss.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/community/2011/11/22/shao-kahn-always-wins/|title=Shao Kahn Always Wins|website=VentureBeat|date=22 November 2011 |accessdate=June 21, 2023}}</ref> ''[[The New York Times]]'' panned Shao Kahn's characterization alongside his army from ''Mortal Kombat: Annihilation'' for making "[[Saddam Hussein]] look like [[Mr. Rogers]]".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/11/22/movies/film-review-based-on-a-video-game-need-to-know-more.html|title=FILM REVIEW; Based on a Video Game. Need to Know More?|website=The New York Times|date=22 November 1997 |accessdate=June 21, 2023}}</ref> Den of Geek was confused by the lack of promotion for Shao Kahn in the film reboot as teases said that Shang Tsung was the actual Outworld Emperor instead, leading to speculations that both characters were combined to for one single antagonist in the film.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.denofgeek.com/movies/shao-kahn-mortal-kombat-reboot/|title=Is Shao Kahn in the Mortal Kombat Reboot?|website=Den of Geek|date=18 February 2021 |accessdate=June 21, 2023}}</ref>
''[[VentureBeat]]'' found Shao Khan highly difficult to defeat in most of his appearances, resulting in the need for the player to come up with strategies need to kill the boss.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://venturebeat.com/community/2011/11/22/shao-kahn-always-wins/|title=Shao Kahn Always Wins|website=VentureBeat|date=22 November 2011|accessdate=June 21, 2023|archive-date=21 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230621213619/https://venturebeat.com/community/2011/11/22/shao-kahn-always-wins/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[The New York Times]]'' panned Shao Kahn's characterization alongside his army from ''Mortal Kombat Annihilation'' for making "[[Saddam Hussein]] look like [[Mr. Rogers]]".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/11/22/movies/film-review-based-on-a-video-game-need-to-know-more.html|title=FILM REVIEW; Based on a Video Game. Need to Know More?|website=The New York Times|date=22 November 1997|accessdate=June 21, 2023|archive-date=21 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230621220033/https://www.nytimes.com/1997/11/22/movies/film-review-based-on-a-video-game-need-to-know-more.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Den of Geek'' was confused by the lack of promotion for Shao Kahn in the film reboot as teases said that Shang Tsung was the actual Outworld Emperor instead, leading to speculations that both characters were combined to for one single antagonist in the film.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.denofgeek.com/movies/shao-kahn-mortal-kombat-reboot/|title=Is Shao Kahn in the Mortal Kombat Reboot?|website=Den of Geek|date=18 February 2021|accessdate=June 21, 2023|archive-date=20 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230620222620/https://www.denofgeek.com/movies/shao-kahn-mortal-kombat-reboot/|url-status=live}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}


{{Mortal Kombat Characters}}
{{Mortal Kombat|state=expanded}}


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[[Category:Action film characters]]
[[Category:Action film villains]]
[[Category:Deity characters in video games]]
[[Category:Deity characters in video games]]
[[Category:Demon characters in video games]]
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Latest revision as of 20:07, 15 November 2024

Shao Kahn
Mortal Kombat character
Shao Kahn by John Tobias
First gameMortal Kombat II (1993)
Created byEd Boon
John Tobias
Designed byJohn Tobias
Portrayed by
Various
Voiced by
Various
Motion captureBrian Glynn (MKII, MK3, UMK3, MKT, MKA)
Jordan Brun (MKvsDCU)
Stephan Scalabrino (MK11)
In-universe information
WeaponWar hammer

Shao Kahn is a fictional character in the Mortal Kombat fighting game franchise by Midway Games and NetherRealm Studios. Depicted as emperor of the fictional realm Outworld, he is one of the franchise's primary villains. Feared for his immense strength, which he complements with a large hammer, and knowledge of black magic, Shao Kahn seeks conquest of all the realms, including Earth. He serves as the main antagonist final boss of Mortal Kombat II (1993), Mortal Kombat 3 (1995) and its updates, and the 2011 reboot, as well as the action-adventure spin-off Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks (2005). An amalgam of Shao Kahn and DC Comics villain Darkseid also appears as the main antagonist and final boss of Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe (2008) under the name Dark Kahn. A younger persona known as General Shao appears in Mortal Kombat 1 (2023).

Shao Kahn is one of the most celebrated villains in video games. Noted as a difficult boss, he has received praise for his design, in-game abilities, and mannerisms, particularly his mocking and taunting of players. The character has appeared in various media outside of the games, including as the main villain of the film Mortal Kombat Annihilation (1997).

Character design and gameplay

[edit]
An unmasked Shao Kahn in the Mortal Kombat II comic book by John Tobias

Shao Kahn was inspired by the Star Wars villain, Darth Vader, where the audience knew that there was an emperor ruling the universe, but knew nothing else about him, creating a desire in the viewer to want to know more. Tobias had something very similar with Shang Tsung and Shao Kahn, and for him that came from the feeling he had as a child when he learned more about what made the Star Wars universe tick in Empire Strikes Back. Tobias wanted gamers to have that same feeling.[2] Kahn's attire for Mortal Kombat II was developed by Mark Runion.[3] Kahn started out unmasked and with large gnashing teeth similar to Baraka, since everyone from Outworld was originally supposed to be of Baraka's race.[4] The idea of all inhabitants of Outworld being Tarkatan was later dropped. His identity has only appeared in Shaolin Monks and Mortal Kombat 11; with the latter revealing an inhuman, but not monstrous, face.

In MKII, Kahn was digitally resized to a taller height to make him tower over the playable characters, and was played by actor and bodybuilder Brian Glynn.[5] Glynn considered Shao Kahn as a positive experience, recalling his time with John Parish (Jax) who recommended him for the role Kahn. During the audition, artist John Tobias requested him to expose his chest which resulted in his quick inclusion in the game as the actor did not have to perform martial arts. Parish's role as Kahn was popular within the Midway stuff to the point they requested him help with other projects.[6] In many official depictions of Shao Kahn made by Midway, he is shown wearing a cape, though he never wore one in his original digitized appearances. Mortal Kombat: Deception was the first time in which he wore the cape in-game. Mortal Kombat sound designer Dan Forden explained that the reason for Kahn not wearing the cape in earlier games, in addition to Kabal not being able to wear a trenchcoat in Mortal Kombat 3, was that loose flowing clothing took up memory.

Shao Kahn originated as an unplayable boss character in MKII. He is fought as a boss (in most cases, the final boss) in most of his appearances, but became a player character for the first time in the home ports of MK3 as an unlockable character. He would also be playable in the home ports of Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3, Mortal Kombat Trilogy, the GameCube and PlayStation Portable versions of Mortal Kombat: Deception, Mortal Kombat: Armageddon and Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe. Shao Kahn also appears as a playable character in Mortal Kombat 11 via DLC. In Mortal Kombat (2011), Shao Kahn is once again a non-playable boss. He is also the final boss in the beat 'em up spin-off, Shaolin Monks.

Shao Kahn's special moves consist mainly of powerful shoulder barges, magical projectiles, and attacks with his signature giant maul, the "Wrath Hammer". In some of his appearances as a boss, blocking Kahn's attacks will stun the player. Since his debut, his signature tactic has been taunting players before, during, and after rounds with such statements as "Bow to me!", "Feel the power of Shao Kahn!", and "It's official, you suck!"

Appearances

[edit]

Mortal Kombat games

[edit]

Shao Kahn first appears as the final boss of Mortal Kombat II and Mortal Kombat 3. In the former, he invokes a rematch against Earthrealm and faces them in Mortal Kombat to facilitate an invasion of Earthrealm, only to be defeated and foiled by Liu Kang. In the latter game, Shang Tsung resurrects Queen Sindel so Shao can use her to mount another invasion of Earthrealm. Ignoring the Mortal Kombat's rules, Shao steals billions of souls from Earthrealm to empower himself and merge it with Outworld as well as sends extermination squads to kill Raiden's chosen warriors, only to be defeated by Liu Kang once more.

Shao makes a cameo appearance in Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance, in which he is seemingly killed by the titular Deadly Alliance. In Mortal Kombat: Deception, in which he appears as a playable character in the GameCube version, it is revealed the Deadly Alliance killed a decoy while the real Shao set out to reclaim his empire from Onaga. In Mortal Kombat: Armageddon, in which he also appears as a playable character, he succeeded in defeating Onaga before forming a fragile alliance with him and the Deadly Alliance to defeat Blaze and seize his godlike power.

Shao Kahn appears as a playable character in and the final boss of Mortal Kombat (2011). After successfully obtaining Blaze's power, he attempts to kill Raiden until the latter sends a message back to his past self to avert the events of Armageddon. In the subsequently altered timeline, when Shao mounts his invasion of Earthrealm while ignoring Mortal Kombat's rules, the enraged Elder Gods empower Raiden, allowing him to kill Shao.

A past version of Shao appears as a playable character in Mortal Kombat 11 (MK11). After being brought to the present by Kronika and promised a timeline without Raiden, he agrees to work for her.[7] Amidst this, he attempts to retake his throne from Kotal Kahn and rebuild Outworld's forces until he is defeated by Kitana.[8][9] In the DLC storyline expansion Aftermath, Shang Tsung reunites Shao and Sindel to help him steal Kronika's Crown of Souls.[10] The tyrants betray Earthrealm and Outworld's forces and assist Shang Tsung in assaulting Kronika's keep until they are betrayed in turn by him.[11][12]

A new incarnation of Shao named General Shao appears as a playable character in Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1).[13] After Fire God Liu Kang creates a second new timeline, Shao was born a sickly child into a proud military family before his father molded him into the perfect soldier. By the present, Shao became commander of Outworld's armies and a staunch Outworld patriot. Believing Outworld should conquer Earthrealm, he openly disagrees with Empress Sindel's policies, but makes no move against her until Shang Tsung and Quan Chi help him mount a rebellion against her, only to be foiled by her and Liu Kang.[14] Following this, Shao is arrested and replaced by Kitana, though he later escapes prison and rallies followers to help him rebel against Outworld's royalty and tame Onaga for use in his plans.[15]

Other media

[edit]

Shao Kahn appears in the Mortal Kombat comic book miniseries Blood & Thunder and Battlewave. In the latter, he kidnaps Sonya Blade and brainwashes her into marrying him to weaken the barrier between Outworld and Earthrealm so he can easily seize the latter.

Shao Kahn, referred to simply as the "Emperor", makes a cameo appearance in Mortal Kombat (1995) via special effects, voiced by Frank Welker. Shao would later appear in Mortal Kombat Annihilation, portrayed by Brian Thompson. For this appearance, he is depicted as Raiden's brother and son of Shinnok.

Shao Kahn appears in Mortal Kombat: Live Tour, played by Jeffrey D. Harris[16] and Ted Nordblum.

Shao Khan received an action figure from Toy Island as part of their Mortal Kombat Trilogy series.[17]

Shao Kahn appears in the Mortal Kombat Kard Game.

Shao Kahn appears in Mortal Kombat: Conquest, portrayed by Jeffrey Meek. For this appearance, he serves as the mediator of the Mortal Kombat tournaments.

Shao Kahn appears in Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm, voiced by John Vernon.

Shao Kahn appears as a playable character in Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe. After Raiden and Superman inadvertently fuse Shao Kahn and Darkseid into Dark Kahn, the former pair unite warriors from their respective dimensions to stop and separate them, with Shao being trapped in Superman's universe and imprisoned in the Phantom Zone.

Shao Kahn appears in the Mortal Kombat: Legacy two-part episode "Kitana & Mileena", portrayed by Aleks Paunovic. This version truly loved Sindel and Kitana and created Mileena to have someone who would reciprocate his feelings.

Shao Kahn appears in Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion's Revenge and Mortal Kombat Legends: Battle of the Realms, voiced by Fred Tatasciore.[18]

Shao Kahn is set to appear in Mortal Kombat 2, portrayed by Martyn Ford.[19]

Reception

[edit]

Shao Kahn was nominated in Nintendo Power Awards '94[20] and '95[21] in the category "Worst Villain" (actually honoring the top video-game villains) of the year, coming second place in 1995.[22] GamesRadar praised Shao Kahn's role as an antagonist, putting him in their 2013 list of the best villains in video game history at number 24,[23] and including him among the 12 most unfair gaming bosses in 2014.[24] Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition listed Shao Kahn as 41st in their list of "top 50 video game villains".[25] Complex ranked Shao Kahn from Mortal Kombat II as the "coolest" boss in fighting game history in 2012, stating that "in the history of fighting games, no boss has ever been cooler or more exciting to lose against."[26] The GamesRadar staff described Shao Kahn as the best villain in video games, stating that "There are plenty of bad guys in the Mortal Kombat games, but the Emperor of Outworld, Shao Kahn, takes the wickedness cake."[27]

In UGO's 2012 list of the top Mortal Kombat characters, Shao Kahn placed sixteenth.[28] In their retrospection listing of MK characters, UGO stated most favorite thing about him was the fact that "his speaking voice is the voice of the announcer heard throughout the series."[29] Complex placed him seventh on her 2013 list of most brutal fighters in Mortal Kombat, adding that "he was brutal not only in his strength but his cunning, too."[30] On the other hand, GamesRadar felt that Shao Kahn was more anticlimactic when compared to the subboss Kintaro as he viewed Kintaro as a more menacing character in contrast to the Emperor who was compared with He-Man in a negative fashion in terms of design.[31] When a mask of Shao Kahn was made for sale, Game Informer noticed that it was one of the few times people had the chance to see boss' true face, comparing him to a Star Trek alien.[32]

Game Informer featured him on their list of gaming's "crappiest" fathers, commenting he due to his misbehaviour with his wife Sindel and his adopted daughter Kitana.[33] The character's incarnation in the 2011 Mortal Kombat has been criticized for how hard it is to defeat him to the point of frustrating gamers;[34][35] that same year, CraveOnline included him on the list of top five "bosses you want to kill but can't".[36] The fight against Shao Kahn in Mortal Kombat 3 was also noted for its difficulty; in 2013, Complex ranked it as the 23rd hardest boss battle in video games.[37] Kahn's portrayal in Mortal Kombat 11 was the subject of controversy for him referencing President Donald Trump and his slogan but under the name "Make Outworld Great Again".[38]

VentureBeat found Shao Khan highly difficult to defeat in most of his appearances, resulting in the need for the player to come up with strategies need to kill the boss.[39] The New York Times panned Shao Kahn's characterization alongside his army from Mortal Kombat Annihilation for making "Saddam Hussein look like Mr. Rogers".[40] Den of Geek was confused by the lack of promotion for Shao Kahn in the film reboot as teases said that Shang Tsung was the actual Outworld Emperor instead, leading to speculations that both characters were combined to for one single antagonist in the film.[41]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "'Mortal Kombat 2': Martyn Ford, Desmond Chiam, Ana Thu Nguyen & Damon Herriman Join New Line Sequel". 15 June 2023. Archived from the original on 15 June 2023. Retrieved 15 June 2023.
  2. ^ "In Konversation: Mortal Kombat Online vs John Tobias - Part 1". Mortal Kombat Online. 17 September 2012. Archived from the original on 22 June 2023. Retrieved June 21, 2023.
  3. ^ Staff (June 1994). "The Minds Behind Mortal Kombat II". GamePro. No. 59. p. 117.
  4. ^ GamePro 58 (May 1994), p.29.
  5. ^ GamePro 59 (June 1994), p.121.
  6. ^ "Celebrity Interview with BRIAN GLYNN aka Shao Khan from "Mortal Kombat 2" - Game On Expo 2017". Youtube. 11 January 2018. Archived from the original on September 18, 2023. Retrieved September 10, 2023.
  7. ^ NetherRealm Studios (2019). Mortal Kombat 11. Warner Bros. Level/area: Chapter 2: Timequake (Kotal Kahn).
  8. ^ NetherRealm Studios (2019). Mortal Kombat 11. Warner Bros. Level/area: Chapter 5: Truths Revealed (Jade).
  9. ^ NetherRealm Studios (2019). Mortal Kombat 11. Warner Bros. Level/area: Chapter 7: Coming of Age (Kitana).
  10. ^ NetherRealm Studios (2019). Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath. Warner Bros. Level/area: Chapter 14: Guardian for Life (Sheeva).
  11. ^ NetherRealm Studios (2019). Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath. Warner Bros. Level/area: Chapter 16: Visions of Empire (Sindel & Shao Kahn).
  12. ^ NetherRealm Studios (2019). Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath. Warner Bros. Level/area: Chapter 17: Checkmate (Shang Tsung).
  13. ^ "Game Info". www.mortalkombat.com/. Archived from the original on 2023-06-30. Retrieved 2023-09-16.
  14. ^ NetherRealm Studios (2023). Mortal Kombat 1. Warner Bros. Level/area: Chapter 12: Queen's Gambit (Mileena).
  15. ^ NetherRealm Studios (2023). Mortal Kombat 1. Warner Bros. Level/area: Tower Mode.
  16. ^ "POP REVIEW; Heroes in Outworld, Fighting to Save the Earth - New York Times". The New York Times. 1995-09-16. Archived from the original on 2018-06-20. Retrieved 2012-01-05.
  17. ^ Captain Coder. "Shao Kahn Action Figure Gallery". Figure Realm. Archived from the original on 2012-04-02. Retrieved 2013-07-20.
  18. ^ Couch, Aaron (2021-06-16). "Animated 'Mortal Kombat Legends' Sequel Arriving This Summer (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Archived from the original on 2021-06-16. Retrieved 2021-06-16.
  19. ^ Bolding, Hunter (April 17, 2023). "MEET THE NEW CHARACTERS OF 'MORTAL KOMBAT 2' [EXCLUSIVE]". That Hashtag Show. Archived from the original on April 17, 2023. Retrieved April 18, 2023.
  20. ^ Nintendo Power 70 (March 1995)
  21. ^ Nintendo Power 82 (March 1996)
  22. ^ Nintendo Power 85 (May 1996)
  23. ^ GamesRadar Staff (May 17, 2013). "100 best villains in video games". GamesRadar. Archived from the original on June 24, 2013. Retrieved June 21, 2013.
  24. ^ Sullivan, Lucas (14 April 2014). "Hardest fighting game bosses | GamesRadar". Gamesradar.com. Archived from the original on 2017-12-11. Retrieved 2022-01-11.
  25. ^ "Bowser voted top of 50 video game villains". Digitalspy.com. 2013-01-24. Archived from the original on 2021-10-19. Retrieved 2022-01-11.
  26. ^ "Shao Khan — 15 Of The Coolest Boss Battles Ever". Complex. Archived from the original on 2013-10-29. Retrieved 2013-07-20.
  27. ^ "The best villains in video games | GamesRadar". Gamesradar.com. Archived from the original on 2018-11-26. Retrieved 2022-01-11.
  28. ^ UGO Team (2012-02-28). "Top 50 Mortal Kombat Characters - Mortal Kombat". UGO.com. Archived from the original on 2012-09-29. Retrieved 2012-03-15.
  29. ^ UGO Team (2012-02-28). "Shao Kahn". UGO.com. Archived from the original on 2013-03-16. Retrieved 2013-07-20.
  30. ^ Hanuman Welch, The Most Brutal Fighters In "Mortal Kombat" Archived 2013-12-15 at the Wayback Machine, Complex.com, July 21, 2013.
  31. ^ "Top 7 Minibosses Who Were Better than The Final Boss". GamesRadar. 9 March 2016. Archived from the original on 21 June 2023. Retrieved June 21, 2023.
  32. ^ "Shao Kahn Statue Gives a Glimpse Behind the Mask". Game Informer. May 22, 2012. Archived from the original on June 21, 2023. Retrieved June 21, 2023.
  33. ^ "Gaming's Crappiest Fathers" Archived 2010-09-12 at the Wayback Machine, Game Informer, September 09, 2010
  34. ^ Walton, Mark (2011-04-20). "Mortal Kombat Review". GameSpot. Archived from the original on 2011-06-30. Retrieved 2011-07-07.
  35. ^ Clements, Ryan (2011-04-19). "Mortal Kombat Review". IGN.com. Archived from the original on 2011-04-19. Retrieved 2011-09-17.
  36. ^ Norris, Erik (2011-05-30). "5 Bosses You Want To Kill But Can't". CraveOnline. Archived from the original on 2013-06-30. Retrieved 2013-07-20.
  37. ^ Elijah Watson, The 50 Hardest Video Game Bosses (And How To Beat Them) Archived 2013-07-05 at the Wayback Machine, Complex.com, July 1, 2013.
  38. ^ "Mortal Kombat 11 has a 'Make Outworld Great Again' Trump reference". Game Revolution. 23 April 2019. Archived from the original on 1 July 2023. Retrieved July 1, 2023.
  39. ^ "Shao Kahn Always Wins". VentureBeat. 22 November 2011. Archived from the original on 21 June 2023. Retrieved June 21, 2023.
  40. ^ "FILM REVIEW; Based on a Video Game. Need to Know More?". The New York Times. 22 November 1997. Archived from the original on 21 June 2023. Retrieved June 21, 2023.
  41. ^ "Is Shao Kahn in the Mortal Kombat Reboot?". Den of Geek. 18 February 2021. Archived from the original on 20 June 2023. Retrieved June 21, 2023.
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