If you’re new to Liu Kang in Mortal Kombat 1, starting with a few reliable combos is the fastest way to feel confident in a fight. You don’t need flashy strings right away just simple sequences that connect, do decent damage, and set up your next move. These starter combos help you learn his rhythm without getting overwhelmed.

What are starter combos and why start here?

Starter combos are short, easy-to-execute attack strings that begin from neutral or after blocking an opponent’s move. They’re designed to be consistent, not complex. For Liu Kang, these often begin with light attacks like 1 (front punch) or d1 (down + front punch), which are quick and safe on block. Mastering these gives you a foundation before layering in specials or juggles.

Which buttons should I press first?

Liu Kang’s most beginner-friendly starters use his jab (1) or low poke (d1). Both are fast and lead naturally into follow-ups. A common one is:

• 1,1, b2 Two jabs into a back elbow. Works at close range and pushes the opponent back slightly.
• d1, d1, f2 Two low pokes into a rising uppercut. Good for launching into air combos later.

You can find more of his basic moves and how they chain together by checking out his basic moveset breakdown.

When should I use these in a real match?

Use them when you’re close enough to hit but not so close that you’ll get interrupted. After blocking a slow attack, during a whiff punish, or just walking in and pressing 1 to test spacing. Don’t force them if your opponent is jumping or dashing timing matters more than memorizing long strings.

What mistakes do beginners make?

• Starting combos too far away Liu Kang’s normals have good range, but not infinite. If the first hit whiffs, the rest won’t land.
• Mashing buttons instead of waiting for each hit to connect. His 1,1 is fast, but rushing into b2 too early breaks the combo.
• Using unsafe enders. Some finishers leave you open. Stick to b2 or f2 until you know which moves are punishable.

How do I build from here?

Once you’re comfortable landing 1,1,b2 or d1,d1,f2 consistently, try adding his fireball (b,f2) after to keep pressure. Or cancel the last hit into a special like Bicycle Kick for extra damage. Understanding his fundamental techniques will help you see how these pieces fit into bigger strategies.

Any tips to practice smarter?

• Turn on input display in training mode. Watch what buttons you’re actually pressing versus what you think you’re pressing.
• Start slow. Speed comes with muscle memory, not panic.
• Test your combo on different characters. Some have smaller hurtboxes if it works on Reptile, it’ll likely work on everyone.

Also, don’t skip learning his essential strikes. Knowing which normals are safe or plus on block changes how you approach offense.

Why does font choice matter in guides? (Yes, really.)

It doesn’t unless you’re making your own training notes or overlays. In that case, clean, readable fonts help. Try Roboto Mono for fixed-width clarity when jotting down inputs.

Next steps to lock in your game:

• Pick one starter combo. Practice it until you don’t have to think about the inputs.
• Try it after blocking three different attacks in training mode.
• Add one special move at the end. See how it feels. Then stop don’t overload yourself.