The original Sub-Zero is back in Mortal Kombat 1. He brings back some classic moves and some new ones, so even veteran players will have things to learn. From his moves list to some general pointers, this guide will go over how to play Sub-Zero in MK1.

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Mortal Kombat 1 Sub-Zero Guide

  • Basic Attacks
  • Aerial Attacks
  • Throws
  • Special Moves
  • Fatal Blow
  • Fatalities
  • Brutalities
  • How to Play Tips

MK1 Sub-Zero Moves List

Before we map out the move list, let’s break down the general notations. We’ll be using the number system that members of the community have long used for Mortal Kombat games.

NotationCommandPlayStation InputsXbox InputsNintendo Switch Inputs1Front PunchSquareXY2Back PunchTriangleYX3Front KickCrossAB4Back KickCircleBA

Sub-Zero Basic Attacks

Move NameInputsClammy Palm1Lin Kuei Storm1, 2Arctic Hammer1, 2, 2Advancing FrostForward+1Frozen OverForward+1, 2Freezing PointForward+1, 2, 3Cold FrontDown+1Quick Chill2Blistering Blizzard2, 1Whiteout2, 1, 2Spinal TapBack+2Brain FreezeDown+2Heavy Toe3Slip Slide3, 4Shin ShatterBack+3PermafrostBack+3, 4Low StepDown+3Harmful Heel4Hail Damage4, 4Chilled SweepBack+4Swing KickDown+4

Sub-Zero Aerial Attacks

Move NameInputsIcy KnucklesForwardUp+1Slick StrikeForwardUp+1, 1Polar PlungeForwardUp+1, 1, 2Menacing MaceForwardUp+1, 2Air Lin KueiForwardUp+1, 3Frosted FrenzyForwardUp+1, 3, 4Ice MakerForwardUp+2FrostbiteForwardUp+2, 1Freezer BurnForwardUp+2, 2Arctic BlastForwardUp+2, 2, 2Balanced BootForwardUp+3 or ForwardUp+4

Sub-Zero Throws

Move NameInputsToward ThrowForward+L1/LB or Forward+1+3Negative ZeroL1/LB or 1+3

Sub-Zero Special Moves

Move NameInputsIce BallDown, Forward, 1Enhanced Ice BallDown, Forward, 1+R2/RTIce KloneDown, Back, 1Enhanced Ice KloneDown, Back, 1+R2/RT(Air) Ice KloneDown, Back, 1(Air) Enhanced Ice KloneDown, Back, 1+R2/RTIce Klone ChargeBack, Forward, 2Enhanced Ice Klone ChargeBack, Forward, 2+R2/RTIce SlideBack, Forward, 3Enhanced Ice SlideBack, Forward, 3+R2/RT(Air) Diving GlacierDown, Back, 4(Air) Enhanced Diving GlacierDown, Back, 4+R2/RTDeadly VaporsDown, Forward, 4Enhanced Deadly VaporsDown, Forward, 4+R2/RT

Sub-Zero Fatal Blow

Move NameInputsChill OutL2+R2/LT+RT

Sub-Zero Fatalities

Move NameInputsHairline FractureForward, Down, Down, 2

Sub-Zero Brutalities

Move NameInputsThe KlassicDown+2

Related: All Mortal Kombat 1 Brutalities Revealed So Far

How to Play Sub-Zero in Mortal Kombat 1

Screenshot by GameSkinny

The ice ninja returns with both memorable and new techniques in tow. Those familiar with the character should have plenty of fun with the moves they know as well as the new ones to learn. These are some things to keep in mind when learning how to play Sub-Zero in Mortal Kombat 1.

  • Frozen Over is a great normal that can be used for starting combos or extending them.
  • His Ice Slide has similar utility and comes out fast, too.
  • His iconic Ice Ball is still here, although with the slower start-up we wouldn’t recommend using it as your primary method of freezing the opponent.
  • Much more reliable in that regard is the enhanced version of the new move called Deadly Vapors.
  • Quite surprising (and appreciated) is the return of his Ice Klone move, which is great for creating some space as well as a combo extender in the corner.

There’s plenty to learn with the character, so we hope this Mortal Kombat 1 Sub-Zero guide has helped out. Check out our MK1 guide library encompassing movelists, unlocks, and more.

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