Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1) has taken the gaming world by storm with its high-stakes battles, the latest graphics, and a new version of legendary characters. However, problems with online modes have been a regular issue for gamers, hindering the smoothness of matchmaking, online battles, and lobby connections.
If MK1 online isn’t working for you, don’t worry! This guide will cover all possible causes and fixes, helping you get back into the fight as quickly as possible.
Why Is MK1 Online Not Working? Common Causes
Before we dive into solutions, let’s determine what could be online connection issues for MK1:
- Game Server Problems – MK1 servers may be down, overloaded, or undergoing maintenance.
- Internet Connection Issues – A slow or unstable network can cause matchmaking failures.
- Firewall or Network Restrictions – Security settings might be blocking MK1 from connecting online.
- Corrupt Game Files – Missing or damaged files could be disrupting the online mode.
- Game Updates & Bugs – Some MK1 patches introduce new glitches that impact online play.
Knowing these causes will help you apply the right fix to get MK1 working again.
How to Fix MK1 Online Not Working (Step-by-Step Guide)
Now, let’s go through the best solutions to fix online matchmaking, lobby errors, and connection problems in Mortal Kombat 1.
1. Check If MK1 Servers Are Down
The first step is to confirm whether MK1’s servers are operational.
How to Check Server Status:
✅ Visit Warner Bros. Games Support for official server updates.
✅ Check Downdetector for real-time outage reports.
✅ Follow @MortalKombat on Twitter for maintenance announcements.
If servers are down, you’ll have to wait until they’re back online.
2. Restart MK1 and Your Gaming System
Quick Restart Fix:
Close MK1 completely (don’t just minimize it).
Restart your PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch.
Relaunch MK1 and try joining an online match again.
✅ Why This Works? It refreshes connections and clears temporary bugs affecting online play.
3. Check Your Internet Connection
A stable and fast internet is crucial for smooth online fights. If MK1 keeps disconnecting or lagging, try the following:
Basic Connection Fixes:
- Restart your router – Turn it off for 30 seconds, then restart it.
- Use a wired connection – Ethernet cables provide a more stable gaming experience.
- Move closer to your Wi-Fi router if using a wireless connection.
- Disconnect other devices from Wi-Fi to free up bandwidth for gaming.
Check Internet Speed:
Go to Speedtest.net and check if your internet meets MK1’s requirements:
Ping: Below 50ms for smooth fights.
Download speed: At least 10 Mbps.
Upload speed: At least 3 Mbps.
If your speed is too slow, consider upgrading your internet plan or switching to a wired connection.
4. Adjust Firewall & Network Settings
Your firewall, router, or antivirus software might be blocking MK1’s online access.
Allow MK1 Through Firewall (PC Users):
✅ Open Windows Defender Firewall → Go to Allow an app through Firewall.
✅ Find Mortal Kombat 1 and enable both Private & Public networks.
Enable Port Forwarding (For Consoles & PC):
For better matchmaking, forward these MK1 ports in your router settings:
✔ PC (Steam): TCP/UDP 27015-27030, 27036-27037
✔ PS5/Xbox/Switch: TCP/UDP 3478-3480, 1935, 3074, 3659
🚨 If unsure, check your router’s manual or visit your ISP’s support page for instructions.
5. Verify & Repair Game Files (PC Users – Steam & Epic Games)
Corrupt or missing game files can break MK1’s online features.
How to Fix Game Files on Steam:
- Open Steam → Go to Library.
- Right-click Mortal Kombat 1 → Click Properties → Local Files.
- Select “Verify Integrity of Game Files”.
- Wait for Steam to fix any corrupted files and restart the game.
How to Fix Game Files on Epic Games:
- Open Epic Games Launcher → Go to Library.
- Click MK1 → Click Verify.
- Relaunch the game after verification is complete.
🚨 This fix has helped many players reconnect to MK1’s online servers!
6. Update MK1 to the Latest Patch
Developers regularly release hotfixes to address online bugs and server issues.
How to Update MK1:
- On PC: Go to Steam or Epic Games and check for updates.
- On Consoles: Go to MK1 settings and click “Check for Updates”.
- Restart your device after updating to apply fixes properly.
If you’re running an outdated version of MK1, online matchmaking may not work properly!
7. Reinstall MK1 (If Nothing Else Works)
If all else fails, reinstalling the game can fix deep-rooted connection issues.
Steps to Reinstall MK1:
– Back up your saved data (cloud or external storage).
– Uninstall MK1 from your PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or Switch.
– Reinstall MK1 from the official store (Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, or Nintendo eShop).
– Restart your system and relaunch the game.
Reinstalling removes any corrupted files and resets game settings to default.
Final Thoughts: Get Back Into MK1 Online Matches!
If MK1 online isn’t working, don’t worry—these troubleshooting steps should help you fix it!
Quick Recap of Fixes:
- Check if MK1 servers are down (via Warner Bros. Support & Downdetector).
- Restart your game and console/PC to refresh the connection.
- Improve your internet speed (use a wired connection & restart your router).
- Adjust firewall/router settings (allow MK1 & enable port forwarding).
- Verify and repair game files (PC users).
- Update MK1 to the latest patch (bug fixes help with online mode).
- Reinstall MK1 if all else fails.
With these solutions, you should be able to enjoy smooth online fights again in Mortal Kombat 1! 🔥🎮
FAQs: MK1 Online Mode Issues
1. Why is MK1 online mode not working?
MK1 servers may be down, your internet connection might be unstable, or your firewall/router settings could be blocking the game.
2. How do I fix lag or high ping in MK1 online matches?
Use a wired connection, close background apps, enable port forwarding, and restart your router to reduce lag.
3. Why can’t I join lobbies in MK1?
Lobby issues are often caused by server problems or strict NAT settings. Restart your game, check your internet settings, and enable UPnP in your router.
4. Do I need a WB Games account to play MK1 online?
Yes, you need to sign in with a Warner Bros. Games account to access online features.
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