The plot kicks off when the amulet holding Shinnok is stolen. The thief is , an insect-like Kytinn from Outworld who secretly serves Shinnok. She frees Shinnok, who allies with the revenants (the fallen Earthrealm heroes like Liu Kang, Kitana, and Kung Lao, now corrupted as undead wraiths serving Quan Chi). However, Quan Chi is killed by Scorpion early in the story, freeing many revenants (including Jax and Sub-Zero) but leaving Liu Kang and Kitana still corrupted.
The story focuses heavily on legacy —the next generation (Cassie’s team) surpassing their parents, and the cost of power (Raiden’s corruption). Mortal Kombat X
After the events of Mortal Kombat (2011) , Shao Kahn is dead, and Raiden’s Earthrealm warriors have won. However, the Netherrealm’s new ruler, the fallen Elder God Shinnok , launches an immediate invasion. In a prologue set 20 years before the main game, Raiden, Johnny Cage, Sonya Blade, and Kenshi battle Shinnok’s forces. Using a magical amulet, Shinnok nearly wins, but Johnny Cage awakens a hidden “green glow” power (his lineage’s Medallion power) and helps Raiden trap Shinnok inside the amulet itself. The plot kicks off when the amulet holding Shinnok is stolen
Shinnok invades Earthrealm, using the Jinsei (Earth’s life force) to empower himself. The Kombat Kids are sent on a desperate mission behind enemy lines. However, Quan Chi is killed by Scorpion early
A new generation of fighters has arisen, including Johnny and Sonya’s daughter, Cassie Cage , along with Jacqueline “Jacqui” Briggs (Jax’s daughter), Kung Jin (Kung Lao’s cousin), and Takeda Takahashi (Kenshi’s son and Scorpion’s apprentice). They form a new special forces unit, the “Kombat Kids,” under Sonya’s command.
While Raiden, Johnny, and Sonya confront Shinnok directly and are defeated, Cassie Cage arrives. She awakens the same green power as her father, making her immune to Shinnok’s magic. She beats Shinnok and rips out his amulet. Raiden then brutally decapitates Shinnok and holds his severed head.
Raiden, corrupted by overexposure to the Jinsei’s dark side during the fight, becomes ruthless. He vows to protect Earthrealm by destroying all its enemies preemptively, setting up his darker path for Mortal Kombat 11 . Meanwhile, Liu Kang and Kitana, still revenants, kill the traitorous D’Vorah and declare themselves the new rulers of the Netherrealm.