Kitana in Mortal Kombat 9: A Renaissance for the Fan-Favorite
Mortal Kombat 9 (also known as Mortal Kombat 2011) marked a triumphant return for the franchise, and with it, a refined and powerful iteration of Princess Kitana. 🏛️ This guide dives deep into why her MK9 version is considered by many pro players as her most balanced and competitive incarnation. We'll explore her move set, frame data, advanced kombos, and the subtle nuances that separate the novices from the Kahn. 👑
Exclusive Move Analysis & Frame Data 📊
Understanding frame data is crucial for competitive play. Below is a breakdown of Kitana's essential normals and specials. Data sourced from extensive lab testing and community collaboration.
| Move Name | Input | Startup Frames | Block Advantage | Damage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fan Toss | BF1 | 15 | -5 | 8% |
| Square Wave (Fan Lift) | DU4 | 25 | - | 0% (launch) |
| Assassin Strike | BF3 | 18 | -12 | 12% |
| D, B+1 (Overhead) | DB1 | 19 | -9 | 10% |
Devastating Kombos: From BnBs to Max Damage 💥
Beginner Bread & Butter (BnB)
Jump Punch, 2, 1, Fan Lift, Jump Punch, 4, Fan Toss, Square Wave. This combo deals ~30% damage and is your foundation. Practice until it's muscle memory.
Advanced Midscreen Damage
Crouching 2, 1, 2, Fan Lift, Jump Punch, 4, Fan Toss, Enhanced Square Wave, 3, Fan Toss. This 40%+ meter burn kombo is a match-ender. Timing is tight on the Enhanced Square Wave follow-up.
Exclusive Interview with "EdenianElite", Top Kitana Main 🎤
"Most players underestimate her zoning game. Her fans aren't just for combos; they control space. Against a rushdown character like Johnny Cage, you need to keep them at bay and whiff punish with her Assassin Strike." – EdenianElite, 2023 MK9 Online Champion.
In our 2-hour interview, EdenianElite revealed a previously undocumented technique: Using the instant-air Fan Toss at its lowest point makes it nearly unpunishable on block. This elevates Kitana's neutral game significantly.
Lore Deep Dive: Kitana's Quest for Redemption in MK9 📖
Mortal Kombat 9's story mode is a reboot, and Kitana's role is pivotal. While she begins as Shao Kahn's loyal assassin, her discovery of her true Edenian heritage and her mother Sindel's fate catalyzes her rebellion. This section analyzes key story moments and their impact on her character design and move set symbolism. The fans represent her grace and precision, while her brutality reflects years of Outworld training.
Secret Strategies & Matchup Tips 🤫
Vs. Scorpion: Her Fan Toss beats his Spear on reaction. Bait the teleport and punish with a full combo.
Vs. Kabal: This is a tough matchup. Use your D+3 low profile to avoid his gas blasts and play patiently.
Corner Pressure: Kitana's corner game is monstrous. Use repeated Fan Lifts and well-timed overheads (DB1) to break their guard.
Community Rating & Comments
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Great guide! The tip about the instant-air fan toss changed my gameplay completely. I finally got out of Warrior rank! Any advice for the Sheeva matchup?
Appreciate the lore section. Many guides ignore the story context. Small note: Her "Royal Storm" variation in later games is a direct callback to her MK9 playstyle.