Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks is an action-adventure beat 'em up video game part of the Mortal Kombat franchise. Released in 2005, the game centers around two of the original characters, Liu Kang and Kung Lao, as they traverse through various environments fighting enemies. The game departs from the traditional one-on-one fighting to offer an extensive story mode and cooperative gameplay, staying true to its violent and mystical roots.