The Mortal Kombat series has long been a source of debate among fans regarding the alignment of its characters. One character that often sparks discussion is Sub-Zero, a powerful cryomancer who serves as both a villain and a hero throughout the series. In this article, we’ll delve into the complex history of Sub-Zero and explore the different alignments he has taken on.
Sub-Zero, whose real name is Bi-Han, is initially tasked with assassinating Scorpion in the early timeline of Mortal Kombat. However, he is manipulated by the sorcerer Quan Chi, leading him to act as a villain. This portrayal is evident in the 1995 Mortal Kombat film and the 2021 movie trailer, where Sub-Zero is portrayed as an antagonist.
Despite his villainous tendencies, Bi-Han’s story takes a dramatic turn in Mortal Kombat II when he is killed by Scorpion. He is later resurrected as Noob Saibot, a powerful wraith who still harbors a dark side. With this transformation, Bi-Han’s alignment becomes more neutral, no longer clearly defined as good or evil.
Taking over the mantle of Sub-Zero after his brother’s death, Kuai Liang brings a new perspective to the character. He becomes a defender of Earthrealm, the realm that houses humanity, and aligns more with the side of good. Unlike his brother, Kuai Liang is primarily portrayed as a protagonist throughout the series.
The differences between Bi-Han and Kuai Liang go beyond just their alignment. Bi-Han initially pursues Shang Tsung, a sorcerer and emissary of the Outworld, but he remains loyal to the Lin Kuei organization. On the other hand, Kuai Liang reforms the Lin Kuei and becomes pro-Earthrealm, showcasing his dedication to protecting humanity.
It’s important to note that Sub-Zero’s alignment is not solely determined by the storylines within the games. Depending on whether a player is controlling Bi-Han or Kuai Liang, Sub-Zero’s morality can shift. This feature allows players to have a unique experience and influence the character’s choices, blurring the line between good and evil.
Opinions on Sub-Zero’s alignment as good or evil may vary among players and fans of the game. Some argue that Bi-Han’s transformation into Noob Saibot makes him inherently evil, while others believe he can still be redeemed. Kuai Liang, on the other hand, is often seen as a noble hero who fights for justice and protects Earthrealm.
In conclusion, the alignment of Sub-Zero in Mortal Kombat is a complex and multifaceted topic. While Bi-Han leans towards neutrality after becoming Noob Saibot, Kuai Liang is consistently portrayed as a protagonist aligned with Earthrealm. The differing backstories and choices of these two characters contribute to the ongoing debate among players and fans. Ultimately, the question of whether Sub-Zero is good or evil may never have a definitive answer, but the character’s moral ambiguity is what makes him so intriguing in the Mortal Kombat series.
