Fighting Game Therapy

Ultimate Discrimination?

With peace again reigning, Dr. Rainey straightened her office. After her clients left, she checked for updates in the fighting game universe. Dr. Rainey noticed that Mortal Kombat 1 was getting a new trailer. Once she skimmed through it, her lips moved to a frown.

Oh dear, it looks like certain characters might be scheduling for my counsel, given the trailer.

Her intercom buzzed on the table.

"Dr. Rainey, your next appointment is here," Janet said.

"Okay. Bring the client in," Dr. Rainey said.

A few minutes later, the door opened, and a woman appeared. She was in her early thirties, with night vision goggles around her shoulder-length black hair. She wore a green armored bustier over a white top, matching shorts, and a belt around it. Bandages wrapped both wrists at the end of her black cut-off gloves, with a mini-computer on her right wrist.

Two cloth straps surrounded her left arm and right leg, along with a shin guard on her knee.

Dr. Rainey lifted her glasses. "Orchid?"

The Disavowed leader placed her hands on her hips, tilting her head. "Dr. Rainey. Just the person I need to see and vent in such difficult times."

"Indeed. Please, have a seat." As Dr. Rainey gestured to the couch, the seasoned agent lay on the sofa, getting comfortable. "So, Orchid, what troubles your mind today?"

"A lot, doc, but I'll start with the obvious. I've been in KI three times, and my brother steals my thunder from the last two?"

"Look, I'm sure Jago didn't mean it. He's just looking out for you, being the kind brother."

"Perhaps, but I'm the older sibling. Just because we're protagonists does not mean he has to treat me like a delicate blossom. I'm not obsessed or crazy, and I'm damn sure not about to let anyone see me as weak." As Orchid slammed her fist against the couch, the force cracked the ceiling, leaving a few pieces on the ground. "Sorry about that."

"It's fine. I'll get Atom Eve to fix it. Anyway, maybe you could tell me what's bothering you."

The Disavowed leader sighed. "It appears I'm facing discrimination, and no, it's not the run-of-the-mill type. Since season three ended, everyone looked forward to Ultimates."

"Ultimates? Huh, that's funny. I thought the first game had No Mercies, Ultimates, and Humilations, right?"

"Yes, but the reboot changed things. So, hearing that the Ultimates were coming back, I listed what fancy finishers I would perform on my opponent. However, once they came, only half the cast got it, including my brother, like what the fuck? Also, it's not just me feeling like this. The other half feels the same way."

"I see. Isn't it possible that it was due to time constraints?"

"Time constraints, my ass!" Orchid said, her eyes blazing with frustration. "How did they have time to show Jago and others their flashy moves but couldn't spare a moment for the rest of us? It's just another way to sideline and undermine us. I won the tournament, lore-wise, in the first game. Can I not have an Ultimate?"

Dr. Rainey leaned back in her chair, tapping her pen against her notepad. "You feel overlooked and undervalued, especially given your accomplishments. Have you considered bringing this up with the developers or finding other ways to assert your importance within the team?"

"I did, and so has the entire KI community, but their efforts fell on deaf ears, even when the anniversary pack came out. No matter what we say or do, our concerns are brushed aside."

"I can't imagine how frustrating that is. Hopefully, when another KI game comes, whoever develops it will resolve it."

"As long as it's not Netherealm Studios. Don't get me wrong--they're a good gaming company. They're the reason Mortal Kombat and Injustice are awesome games. It's just their practices are...shady in some sense."

"Hm, I see. Rumor has it, but Microsoft worked on a new game with Bandai Namco. I saw it on the forums."

Orchid furrowed her brows. "Bandai Namco? Isn't that the one that creates games like Tekken and Dragon Ball? How can they contribute to creating a KI game?"

"Well, Bandai Namco has a strong track record in fighting games. Their experience with complex combat systems and character development could bring a fresh perspective to KI. It might be just the kind of innovation the series needs to address your concerns for Ultimates."

"I suppose, but as you said, it's a rumor. I'll believe it when I see it."

"That's fair," Dr. Rainey said. "However, it might be worth watching for any official announcements. Rumors hold a grain of truth and could signal positive changes on the horizon. So, let's say you get your Ultimate. Which would you prefer?"

Orchid's eyes lit up with a mix of excitement and determination. "I've always envisioned an Ultimate where I channel the energy of my firecat, unleashing a devastating series of attacks that culminate in a powerful, flaming explosion. It would be a fitting tribute to my character's strength and legacy."

"That sounds interesting. However, some fans want the move back."

"What move?"

"You know..." Dr. Rainey gestured at her chest.

Orchid gasped. "Are you serious? Those horny bastards! I can't believe they still want to bring back my old finisher from the first game. It's outdated and doesn't justify my character's evolution. Like, doc, it's 2024. People like those need to get woke. Can you imagine what would happen if that move returned? I would have men hounding me for my number, and the women would shout, 'Look, it's the slut who flashed her brother!' It's embarrassing, especially for Jago!"

"Well, some things never change. However, the Ultimate you describe sounds more fitting and respectable to yourself than that move."

"Exactly, thank you. I can still keep my sexiness, but with more class and respect," Orchid said.

"You mentioned the 'Flash' move was outdated, right?" Dr. Rainey asked. "What if they bring it back with a modern twist that aligns with your character's growth and the current audience's expectations?"

"Please elaborate," Orchid said, raising an eyebrow.

"Think of your move as an energy surge emanating from your core, symbolizing strength and allure. Instead of an exploitative gesture, it could signify empowerment and mastery over your firecat abilities."

"So what you're saying is instead of my chest being the shock value, I could use flash grenades to stun my opponent. After that, I sent my Firecat to tear them apart, implying their deaths?"

"Precisely. It would transform the move from something superficial into a symbol of your combat prowess and strategic insight. This way, it respects your character's evolution while still paying homage to the original fans. There are creative ways to make that move more empowering than objectifying."

Orchid mused over the proposition, her fingers tapping against her chin. "That could work. It would keep the spirit of the original move while aligning with my character's journey and the values we want to promote. I'll have to experiment with this. The one I described will still be number one, but what you mentioned might be worth exploring."

"I'm glad you're open to the idea," Dr. Rainey said. "Also, don't give up on voicing your concerns about the Ultimates, and tell the other half of the cast as well. Everyone will be equal one day when the next KI game comes out. We're out of time, so I'll see you soon. Also, try to give Jago some slack, okay? It's a tough time for him."

"I guess I can't tell Jago I'm dating Strider Hiryu, eh?" Orchid said with a wry smile. "See ya, doc."

As the Disavowed leader left the room, Dr. Rainey chuckled, shaking her head. "She never surprises me."