Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3

 

**Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3** (UMK3) is a classic fighting game developed and released by Midway in 1995. It is an enhanced version of *Mortal Kombat 3*, featuring additional characters, stages, and gameplay improvements. SEGA published versions of the game for home consoles, including the **SEGA Genesis** and **SEGA Saturn**.

### Key Features of Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3:
1. **Expanded Roster**: UMK3 added several characters that were not in the original MK3, such as:
   - Scorpion (who was notably absent in MK3)
   - Reptile
   - Kitana
   - Mileena
   - Jade
   - Noob Saibot (as a hidden character)
   - Rain (as a hidden character)
   - Classic versions of Sub-Zero and Kung Lao.

2. **New Stages**: The game introduced new arenas, such as the Kombat Tomb and the River Kombat stage.

3. **Gameplay Improvements**:
   - Enhanced combo system.
   - New finishing moves, including Brutalities (a combo-based fatality).
   - The ability to run, which added a new layer of strategy to fights.

4. **Secret Characters and Easter Eggs**:
   - UMK3 is known for its hidden characters and secrets, such as unlocking Noob Saibot and Rain.
   - The game also featured the infamous "Animality" finishers, where characters transform into animals to finish their opponents.

### SEGA Versions:
- **SEGA Genesis**: The Genesis version of UMK3 was highly praised for being a faithful port of the arcade game, despite the hardware limitations. It featured slightly scaled-down graphics and sound but retained most of the gameplay mechanics.
- **SEGA Saturn**: The Saturn version was a more accurate arcade port with better graphics and sound compared to the Genesis version. It also included additional features like improved load times and smoother gameplay.

### Legacy:
UMK3 is considered one of the best entries in the *Mortal Kombat* series and is fondly remembered by fans for its fast-paced gameplay, expanded roster, and secrets. It has been re-released in various compilations, such as *Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection* and *Mortal Kombat Trilogy*.

If you're playing the SEGA version, you're in for a nostalgic treat with one of the most iconic fighting games of the 90s! Let me know if you need tips or secrets for the game!