Netherrealm

Netherrealm is a fictional dimension in the Mortal Kombat media franchise. It is depicted as a hell-like realm characterized by fire, lava, and decayed landscapes. The souls of the dead are said to dwell there, subjected to necromantic magic performed by its inhabitants. The realm features its own fortresses and demon-haunted towns, and hosts a variety of demonic beings and sorcerers. Throughout the series, Netherrealm is presented as one of several interconnected realms with its own rulers and power structures, often centered on necromancy and dark magic.

In Mortal Kombat lore, Netherrealm functions as a counterpart and sometimes antagonist to Earthrealm and Outworld. Portals allow characters to travel between realms, and the realm serves as a source of dark power used by various figures, including necromancers such as Quan Chi and, at different points, Shinnok.

NetherRealm Studios is a video game development company based in Chicago, Illinois. It originated from Midway Games’ Chicago studio and was reorganized as NetherRealm Studios in 2010. The studio operates as a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment. It is best known for creating Mortal Kombat (2011), as well as the Injustice series and subsequent Mortal Kombat titles such as Mortal Kombat X and Mortal Kombat 11.