Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks is an action game released in 2005. Based on the events that occurred at the end of Mortal Kombat leading into Mortal Kombat II and its final confrontation with Shao Kahn, players take on the role of Liu Kang and Kung Lao as they fight to defend Earthrealm. The game was welcomed by fans and critics alike for being an enjoyable fatality-filled action beat 'em up; no doubt in part to the last two Spin-Off games, Mythlogies and Special Forces, being less than stellar.