Bi-Han doesn't want to kill his brothers throughout the game, he really wants them to understand his perspective, and for them to join him. From where he stands, he isn't the aggressor, he feels like the only intelligent person with vision, while his brothers cling to a weak past they could surpass.
Exactly. I noticed in all of the intros he almost never mentions killing smoke or scorpion. He only says things like he wants to harm/hurt them while he outright says he will kill other characters in intros. Along with him showing sympathy for sindels death in story mode to kitana and mileena.
I wish the story mode explored more of Bi-Han's thoughts on the tournament. Like it feels like it would make sense for him to think, why can't he or other members of the Lin Kuei be champions (Yeah I know, Ninjas and all) but he could still feel that Liu Kang judgment is off. I mean seriously, two farmers, an ex-gangster, and a movie star is who you pick. But not anyone from the clan of warriors meant to protect earthrealm? That could have been so convincing If they had him say something like that to his brothers, but instead we have to try and guess how he feels. Also this sounds better then just, power hungry angry man. Make his angry comes from something convincing.
There’s also an intro dialogue where he’s asked by an Outworlder “Why are Lin Kuei never earthrealm champions?” Bi-Han responds with “so Outworld doesn’t lose every tournament”.
@@maxrichards3881I mean... Even Non-Lin Kuei people are able to beat Outworlders 🤣. Remember when Liu said to General Shao how Earthrealmers ALWAYS win the tournament?
Idk bro wouldn’t it have been interesting to see a young Hanzo and shirai ryu clan fight along side bi-Han and Lin kuei but all the while having a rivalry between them?
I feel like before Bi-Han cut Kuai Lang face there was a moment where Kuai thought his brother wasn't going to hurt him, because Kuai looks generally surprised when he didn't see a dagger in his brothers hand.
Yes and then he strikes his face. Plus notice how bi han clinched his fist/hand to kuai in a emotional way to ask him to join him. Like he didn’t want to loose him 😢
The fact that Bi Han had a clear open shot to kill his brother and didn’t proves that Bi Han still loves his brother. If the writers have any sense at all, they’ll let Bi Han redeem himself later down the road
In a small way, I do kind of get Bi-Han’s frustration. Liu Kang made the Lin Kuei an organisation dedicated to protecting Earthrealm. So why were they not selected to be Earthrealm’s champions? Surely it made sense for them to be selected rather than two farmers, an actor and a former gangster? And if there’s peace between the realms, then the Lin Kuei literally have no use. I understand Bi-Han’s frustration and the desire for more, but I don’t agree with his decision to team up with Shang Tsung.
Just as Liu Kang said to Li Mei about Shang Tsung working his way into Shao's head, he did the same to Bi-Han. Both men hate what they perceive to be Liu Kang putting a stranglehold on the potential of their people and want that influence gone.
That actually makes so much sense, imagine being trained your entire life as a warrior, become the grandmaster of a centuries old clan, and possess amazing powers, only for a fucking seemingly random ass farmer to be given a cool amulet crafted by the fucking gods
yeah despite I have no tolerance with his way how to deal with it, his frustration makes sense. Not only because the great honor and glory was given a people who did not dedicate whole life to serve and protect and did not train to be warrior (and are weaker then him, at least in the beginning), it is about their servitude as well. Instead of being partner for Liu Kang, he is just his servant to do what he desires without asking Bi-Han opinion (it is obvious that the test of champions was humiliating for him). I understand both perspective Liu Kang and Bi-Han. Liu Kang gave them actually improvement given their previous timeline from his point of view. But Bi-Han has grown up without any idea of some previous timeline, so it is not improvement from his point of view. Desire to have a word and making decision (at least for his clan what they will do and under their terms) makes such a sense from his point of view.
You know it’s funny. In hindsight, if Liu Kang didn’t rush his decisions. And choose Bi-Han, Kuai Liang, and Smoke to infiltrate Outworld and capture Shang Tsung. They would have been successful, and none of this mess would have escalated further.
Whose to say the same events wouldn't happen, but only earlier? We don't know if Shang Tsung always had a plan to goad Bi-Han to betraying Liu Kang even before the Earthrealmers mission to capture Shang Tsung; if he did already have a plan by then, then Bi-Han would have just betrayed Liu Kang much earlier in the story.
Bi-Han was already chafing under Liu Kangs orders. He knew the grandmaster was no longer entirely trustworthy. It's likely Shang would have simply made the same pitch if he was captured, that he made when the ninjas were.
@@dustinjones7458 But Bi-Han only listeneed because 1. He was caught and 2. The proof was in front of him. Imagine Shang Tsung trying to explain to Bi-Han "no bro, seriously, i have like a crown and ancient chinese robots. Please work with me."
@@jonahhudson2052 Shang Tsung knew the buttons to push. Having leverage was useful, but not vital. He would still have sold Bi-Han on what seemed like an ultimatum. Do their bidding and remain a slave. Or seize power and see how far it takes you. Bi-Han seems destined to take the second choice. Letting his father die was a step he already took. And like with any dark act...the next one is easier. He'd already betrayed his own family for the sake of the Lin Kuei. Betraying a God was easier, and he was just looking for an opportunity. And guess what, Shangs the best elixir salesman ever!
@@dustinjones7458I’m gonna keep it real with you man this was cope. Sub Zero only listened because he had to. Yes yes Shang is a good salesman and all that but again Sub Zero had literally no choice BUT to listen because he had been captured, and this was because Shang knew about their arrival and had already planned for it. If the LK brothers infiltrated outworld earlier in the story (and why the fuck would they not, they’re the fucking ninjas), Shang most likely would’ve been caught off guard because he wouldn’t have had time to get familiarized with Liu Kang’s decision making. We saw how Sub Zero freed up Ermac AND Nitara on his own; you don’t think he would’ve had Shang in a chokehold? There wouldn’t have even BEEN a sales pitch to talk about because bro would’ve probably been knocked out cold.
Bi-Han isn't bad in my opinion, he is more like a cold hearted person. I think NRS are gonna go with his Journey like the Mythologies maybe Bi-Han starts as an cold hearted prick but eventually becomes a anti-hero type character after meeting with Sareena.
I’m not liking he way there taking bi Hans story and I haven’t liked the way he’s been treated since John tobais left midway (think he was the last person who actually understood his character” however I will fully forgive NRS if we can get a reverse of the old timeline and have Sareena redeem Bi Han instead of them just never meeting
Writers need to remember that the world isn't black and white. Good people and evil people do exist, but sometimes people are just assholes. Not sadists that find joy in chaos and harming others, and not even people with different axioms, just people that are insufferable dicks. I really like Bi-Han in MK1 purely because he's not necessarily a villain, but someone who is willing to go against the heroes to do something he believes in- and it makes me really excited for a potential redemption arc. Great video!
Maybe him losing something that he values most?... Imagine the Lin Kuei dissolves or is entirely destroyed by either Liu Kang or the Shirai Ryu?... What would happen to Bi Han if that happened? 🤔
I mean Bi Han was always an Anti Hero to a degree especially in MK Mythologies but this Version just leaned too far to Evil probably because he got Power far too Early changing both his mentality and arc, Without MK Mythologies and without that Lack of Power restraining him, it probably resulted in this version of Bi Han, having All of the Ruthlessness and Pride of his Original Counterpart but None of his attempts at Redeemption before his tragic death, this also means Serena still remains Evil unlike her OG Counterpart.
Remember, Bi Han saved Earthrealm from quan chi and shinnok in Mortal Kombat mythologies. Bi Han is not a completely evil person, but he is selfish and power-hungry. I like to think that there is good in him. If it wasn’t for his greed, he would be a great older brother to Kuai-Liang.
he wasnt good. But he wasnt pure evil, he was basically anti-villan to neutral chaotic. Dude isn't really moral but he also has a code of conduct. So i guess he is noble ish? or right but not good. which is different mind you. he should be atleast neutral or like a vegeta type. He is very self centered and he only cares about a handful of things but i don't think og bi han was greedy nor power hungry, i even remembered that he asked raiden if what quan chi said about him being tainted genuinely bothered him. Its just that he was an assassin and kills people for a living so he would be tainted. But i cant seem to remember in the other games where it says that he wanted to retire. I feel like NRS should have sticked to the Og characterization of bi han as a very cold ruthless assassin, very pragmatic. Is not concerned about morality or the greater good rather he only focuses on what matters to him which is his clan, brother but maybe this time show more of his code of conduct as an assassin. TBH i don't really want him to be like liu kang where he is the most moral. he is an assassin after all.
Bi-Han is the most human character in Mortal Kombat, i wish that he doesn't become noob in this one, and rather gets redeemed, and grow as a character.
@@lukalovric2463The Cyber Initiative is the construction of robots not cyborgs (yet). Bi Han would never willingly become a cyborg. He's always been a massive technophobe
I kind of like how arrogant he is. But its not out of spite. It’s because he just wants the best for his clan but he really doesn’t want to submit/be under someone else.
Dang never really thought about that, but you’re right. And I always hated how one dimensional and boring that made Rain. And I hate seeing my boy Bi Han a one dimensional power hungry edge lord.
When lin kuei trailer dropped. And his "die like my father" came out I thought he would go through something like. abusive father that hates bi han but not kuai liang. lin kuei treated as lackeys by liu Kang sub asks for more than just being protectors liu Kang says no and uses God powers to show he is more powerful and 'makes' bibjan submit peacefully lin kuei members are part of outworld mk tournament during shang sung investigation, liu kang's orders to bi han caused many lin kuei's humiliation and damage. Bi han who was against this becomes frustrated. eventually kuai ends up severely injured by further liu Kang orders. While liu is a good person, these mistakes happen because unforseen circumstances. Eventually causing bi han to seek either quan chi or shang to help ressurect kuai or restore kuai kuai gets restored. Bi han keeps meeting with deadly alliance from liu Kang a secret. deadly alliance continues to gain bi han favor by helping lin kuei. Causing bi han to truly hate liu Kang. lin kuei trio finds shang, smoke tries to eradicate shang, bi han decides to save shang. Turning against his brothers.
So he has the prideful, selfish, power hungry Archetype Edit: I was gonna make a Vageta joke about Bi-Han’s Hairline, but I realized it’s curved and con-caved, instead of slim and pointy
Great analysis man. You’re the first person I’ve heard actually delve into his character and portrayal in MK1-and not just complaining about it (like myself, ha). I’m guilty of it because I just love Bi Han and he’s my favorite character.
yeah I completely understand the criticism his writing gets, so I felt taking this approach would be better to see what they did give us opposed to what they didn’t!
The curse of being strong is such a wise take. Most people only see the surface level of Bi Han's persona, but they don't pay attention to his choice of words and actions. I see Bi Han as a warrior spirit, reminded me a lot of Vegeta from DBZ. He's prideful in his skill and clan, arrogant with good reason, and wants to bring his people to the highest station he feels they deserves. You can see how quickly his personality changed while he was on mission with his brothers, he wasn't so aggressive towards them, showed he cared by asking if they were harmed, and repeatedly mentioned how he relished in worthy combat. Liu Kang's biggest mistake was trying to turn a warrior into a glorified guard dog. He ignored the obvious signs of Bi Han's displeasure.
While I have many speculative thoughts on his personality and thought process, I’d like to table some of them: Bi-Han’s cold assertion that Smoke and (especially) Kuai “obey” their grandmaster likely stems from Bi-Han being told the same. Likely his father needed to keep him on a tight leash and from Bi-Han’s perspective he “obeyed” the previous grandmaster despite disagreeing with him. And because he did, he expects others to do so as well. It’s reasonable to assume that Bi-Han is one of (if not) the most talented members of the Lin Kuei. And his prodigious talent was in all likelihood apparent from an early age, fueling that superiority complex. He’s used to being the best and to him any assertion otherwise is deeply offensive (like Kung Lao). Add to it his growing up watching and hearing the exploits of the great Lin Kuei saving and defending earth realm time and time again. He would see them as the “reason” earth realm is safe - particularly if it appeared like the Lin Kuei were doing all the dirty work while Liu Kang simply doled out orders from the sidelines. Bi-Han is deeply flawed and I think that makes him a fascinating character. I don’t think it was bad writing with his betrayal but it could’ve been done better. Mostly because from what we see, Bi-Han himself isn’t loyal to Liu Kang. It’s not really a betrayal because he doesn’t care. He wants greatness for the clan and by extension himself and he’s willing to follow a path that he feels can get him there. That’s why rather than sign up right away with Shang Tsung, he asks questions and raises doubts even if he sides with him in the end.
What if Bi-Han's arrogance comes from the fact he is Grandmaster? In the original timeline, only Kuai Lang became grandmaster. In the original, Sektor's father was grandmaster.
Kuai Liang also made his Brother Co-Grandmaster but Kuai knows his own brother so he rewrites history specifically to make Bi Han Good, Liu Kang doesn't know who Bi Han is, so he fails despite making Bi Han Grandmaster the same as Kuai, Its possible that before Bi Han in the OG timeline became more compationate and dutiful he is a whole lot closer to this Bi Han (who ironically acts more like Sektor) Bi Han in the OG timeline is more proffessional in his demenor, he acts Coldly and is more Brutal but him being of a lower possition in the Clan made it so that he wasn't Power Hungry but will follow his Clan's goals no matter how dubious as Bi Han always walks the line between Good and Evil, in the OG timeline he had a Chance in MK Mythologies but by MK he died and never redeemed himself, Without that intial lack of Power and then his MK Mythologies Arc, resulted in this Bi Han, amplifying his Ruthlessness rather than tempering it. (On a Side Note also without MK Mythologies Serena remains Evil as well, meaning Liu Kang really misunderstood Bi Han as an individual.)
@@forickgrimaldus8301that would make sense if it weren’t for the fact that he let his father die suggesting the new timeline Bi-Han was always power hungry to begin with
Everything you mentioned in this video is exactly how I saw him as I went through Bi-Han's content in the game! He's heavily resentful of how much the Lin Kuei's strength was downplayed to being guards because of his dad. And even though we don't see any clear devotion to the bond with Kuai Liang and Tomas, he really did want them to be by his side in this chance for the group to be greater. It's interesting that you called him "self-centered" because I only described him as selfish whenever I thought about him. BUT it makes sense because of that superiority that you highlighted. I really appreciate that you took this analytical approach in an unbiased lens. I've seen a few people react to Bi-Han's actions harshly or in an enamored way. They're valid in doing so but it's refreshing to see someone tackle his character so far in an almost psychological way. Great work!
When lin kuei trailer dropped. And his "die like my father" came out I thought he would go through something like. abusive father that hates bi han but not kuai liang. lin kuei treated as lackeys by liu Kang sub asks for more than just being protectors liu Kang says no and uses God powers to show he is more powerful and 'makes' bibjan submit peacefully lin kuei members are part of outworld mk tournament during shang sung investigation, liu kang's orders to bi han caused many lin kuei's humiliation and damage. Bi han who was against this becomes frustrated. eventually kuai ends up severely injured by further liu Kang orders. While liu is a good person, these mistakes happen because unforseen circumstances. Eventually causing bi han to seek either quan chi or shang to help ressurect kuai or restore kuai kuai gets restored. Bi han keeps meeting with deadly alliance from liu Kang a secret. deadly alliance continues to gain bi han favor by helping lin kuei. Causing bi han to truly hate liu Kang. lin kuei trio finds shang, smoke tries to eradicate shang, bi han decides to save shang. Turning against his brothers. Show less
@@karmatem except his personality the og bi Han isn’t evil he was just doing what he was raised to do and he clearly cared for kuai more in the og since kuai was willing to die to avenge him and if og bi Han met now he would rip out his spine and keep it as a trophy for touching kuai
Man I love this comment section. Finally some Bi-Han appreciation. I like new Bi-Han's design but he is acting a little bit delusional and idiot. Character wise OG Bi-Han was so good. Professional cold assassin.
When lin kuei trailer dropped. And his "die like my father" came out I thought he would go through something like. abusive father that hates bi han but not kuai liang. lin kuei treated as lackeys by liu Kang sub asks for more than just being protectors liu Kang says no and uses God powers to show he is more powerful and 'makes' bibjan submit peacefully lin kuei members are part of outworld mk tournament during shang sung investigation, liu kang's orders to bi han caused many lin kuei's humiliation and damage. Bi han who was against this becomes frustrated. eventually kuai ends up severely injured by further liu Kang orders. While liu is a good person, these mistakes happen because unforseen circumstances. Eventually causing bi han to seek either quan chi or shang to help ressurect kuai or restore kuai kuai gets restored. Bi han keeps meeting with deadly alliance from liu Kang a secret. deadly alliance continues to gain bi han favor by helping lin kuei. Causing bi han to truly hate liu Kang. lin kuei trio finds shang, smoke tries to eradicate shang, bi han decides to save shang. Turning against his brothers. he wasnt good. But he wasnt pure evil, he was basically anti-villan to neutral chaotic. Dude isn't really moral but he also has a code of conduct. So i guess he is noble ish? or right but not good. which is different mind you. he should be atleast neutral or like a vegeta type.
You in the same comment section as me? I see ALOT more hate for Bi-Han, and the UA-camr who made this. Maybe it was more positive when you made this. But yes me too nice to see Bi-Han Appreciation.
Bi-Han reminds me a lot of Boromir. Everything he does makes perfect sense from his point of view, yet we're judging because we know the whole situation.
A great breakdown of the inner workings of Bi Han's mind. I'm simply holding out hope that the writers were just demonstrating Bi Han's harsher and unforgiving side to him before giving us the dessert that is his redemption In regards to his tower ending, I'm thinking that it may play into his redemption. Going off what we've seen, the Cyber Initiative currently is the production of robots. Bi Han wanted to bolster numbers. Cyborgs wouldnt do that. My guess is that his and Sektor's interests will diverge eventually as Sektor being the "anything for progress" guy will decide to convert their men into cyborgs whilst Bi Han is reluctant to trade his clan's humanity, (He's always been a technophobe) therefore leading to mutiny and possible redemption. Of course, I haven't even mentioned Sareena yet. And given how the Temple of the Elements has been referenced a number of times and will eventually show up, I'm gonna put my two cents on two specific people ending up there
@nikeiyomiuri2728 SPOILERS Bi-han is force to become noob-sabiot and mind controller by havik but later, Liu kang managed at least to restore his mind after that bi-han temporarily join the hero side just to get vengeance against havik which ironically he end up beating all the minions and havik killing them except for havik since he was stopped by liu kang which we don't know was by beating him or he actually complies and finally bi-han is lock up in the temple of the elements. (Liu kang hopes to restore him and to free him from havik chaos magic). Is not a complete redemption because although he end-up saving the multiverse, it is just the byproduct of getting his vengeance against havik and also Kuai-liang and bi-han they still hate each other. Edit: when i mention havik a talking about the one in the post credits scene which is also a TITAN.
I love the fact that we can come together and discuss things like this. Bi-Han is a fictional character but to me, the writers did a good job in that we are here discussing who and what Bi-Han is, relating to the very human aspects of his character, it is so exciting to me. I agree with most of what this video explained and I feel like Bi-Han has always been a polarizing character. Before, we focused so much on Kuai Liang Sub Zero, it's good to get more insight into his older brother, who, let's face it, we really haven't had nearly as much lore on until now, many people focusing more on the Noob Saibot version of him. Many people write him off as just plain evil, and he's not ever been that, an ass but not evil. There are aspects of Bi-Han that I think are admirable, and of course other aspects that are quite detestable. Bi-Han is a complicated character and I think everyone knows a Bi-Han, I know I do lol. This is great, this is really really great I'm really happy I found this channel
I’m at the start of this video but I’m really glad ppl are analyzing Bi-Han, it really felt like his character wasn’t given enough room to be fully explained in game (at least imo) and he felt like just an asshole at times while I could also kind of tell there was more to him that we just weren’t being given. He’s such a fascinating character.
His writing is quite frustrating in this story. They actually came up with good stuff for his character & then fumbled it when they made him let his dad die & made power his main motivation. I would think it far better for him to be a fallen hero who gets more & more disillusioned with Liu Kang & his father’s teachings as events unfold, this would lead to Bi-Han wanting the Lin Kuei to lead Earth as a protector & replace Liu Kang who he sees unfit.
The saddest part of mk 1 is how they rushed with story.I wished they took more time to showcharacters thoughts and build them emotionally(Bi-Han,Reiko,Smoke are prime examples.)
I like to believe that Bi-Han only feigned the guilt of letting his father die because of how the tragedy deeply scarred him. And that because of his ego, he would rather play the bad guy than admit that his mistake costed the life of a loved one. How this would tie into his ambitions for the Lin Kuei is simple: that he wishes for no more of them to die as nameless soldiers like his father and those before him did. This is also why he commissioned the Cyber Initiative, to bolster their vanguard without having to send in living people as fodders - at least until Sektor betrays him for whatever reason and starts Cyberizing members of the clan against their will. As for why is he always lashing out to Tomas for being adopted, maybe it's because it irks him how an adopted child is more eager to uphold his father's legacy than he does. It's the guilt for essentially betraying his father eating him away. But I love your interpretation from A-to-Z. Extrapolating from existing material with some heavy psychology sure beats filling the blanks with melodramatic tangents like mine.
I genuinely think bi han feels the lin kuei are being snubbed. They appear to be earthrealms chief strike force and bi han is earth's premier warrior and yet they are not asked to represent earth realm instead the white lotus society is the preferred choice. Doubly annoying when he is asked to "test" the supposed champions as if he has nothing better to do. The lin kuei also seem to be the only humans capable of sorcery which was a gift to raiden for being earths champion to level the playing field. All this seems to grate on bi han. I actually think bi-han is acting undercover. His betrayal is too on the nose. There is no version of events that kuai liang sides with bi han after "i let father die".
That could still be re-interpreted or retconned as Bi-Han blaming himself for failing to save his father (survivor's guilt and all that jazz), which could make a good springboard for his redemption.
@@genericweeb7300 I actually would have liked a set up like this where instead of outright ambition. He genuinely thought to strengthen the lin kuei and himself due to letting his father die
@@Deathmare235Nah I think this would be very smart but needs to be executed in a sensitive manner. The circumstances surrounding the death of the father is very important and it wouldn’t be hard to believe that Bi-Han either killed his father directly or was completely incapable of helping him. There’s a lot of variable. For example if Bi-Han had nothing to do with his father dying and only said that to try and force Scorpion to his side, or if Bi-Han is delusional and in the best of the moment said that he “Let his father die” just so that he could maintain some sense of control as if he was saying “Nah… I’m totally not in over my head! I’ve been masterminding this the whole time! I’ve got this shit 😎 just keep following me” There’s so much that we still don’t know 😂
@@gamester1440 they both sound like bad options, there’s no way bi Han would think that telling him his father died would convince his brother to join him
The way you break down Bi-Han seems to parallel Dr Doom's personality and motivations. The arrogance that stems from his own sense of superiority, the blind ambition that leads to reckless, selfish actions and the need to enforce his authority on all his lessers. Very good video.
"Easily beat these losers!" "We were holding back tho" "THIS PROFOUND AND INSIDIOUS FORM OF NARCISSISM IS MOST OFTEN ROOTED IN YEARS OF ONE'S EXPECTATIONS NOT BEING MET!"
I think it would be super interesting if Kuai Liang dies and becomes Noob Saibot, forcing Bi-Han to reevaluate his purpose and his relationship with his brothers. Suddenly his brother, a paragon of goodness, becomes a demonic embodiment of evil, and he must reconcile just how far he’s fallen from his father’s teachings. It could force him to at least attempt to atone, and his relationship with Tomas will be even more nuanced by that point.
Many do not understand his motives, thinking right away that he is evil, he might seem like that, his character is much deeper than that and I really appreciate that video
Dude you’ve got a gift for looking into a character and what makes them unique, I had this same thought process through the whole game, subscribed man. Btw Bi-Han is probably my most favourite character so I’m glad Netherealm are taking their time to give him as Sub-Zero the spotlight. I think people also need to take into account this Bi-Han is still far from being fully corrupted like MK Og and 2011 timelines, he’s not dead yet and Sareena and him have just met.
The problem is that he’s been written as this irredeemable, power hungry asshole when that completely defeats the point of Noob. Bi-Han in the OG timeline wanted to run away from the clan as his ending shows but was killed before he could do so. Taking the desire of redemption away from Bi-Han & turning him into Noob way before he is corrupted just makes Noob moot.
he wasnt good. But he wasnt pure evil, he was basically anti-villan to neutral chaotic. Dude isn't really moral but he also has a code of conduct. So i guess he is noble ish? or right but not good. which is different mind you.
I just hope Bi han can be saved in this timeline we dont need noob to be Bi han the thing is there is a reason that Kuai Liang was made scorpion in this universe I believe he can save his brother.
@@DarthTrooper2021 you know how Bi Han ends ups betraying Smoke and Kuai in Story Mode? It’s pretty similar as to how Anakin betrayed the Jedi Order (when Palps goaded him into choosing the Dark Side. The only difference is that Anakin wanted the power and ability to save Padme while Bi Han just wanted power.) Ya get it now?
Also its important to note all the VS interactions that he has with the other cast. The most interesting things I saw was when smoke remarks that father would be disappointed, he counters that mother would not be, so his ideals did not spring from his mind alone (the fact Scorpion has to leave is actually proof that the majority of the rank and file agree with Bi Han). Also, it does seem from his general interactions that he wants Scorpion to be part of the Lin Kuei. There are probably alot more.
Ngl I feel like scorpion leaving the Lin kuei is just dumb, could’ve had scorpion leading a faction of the Lin kuei who split off to join the shirai ryu I mean the king kuei are meant to be earth’s defenders and cyrax isn’t as hostile as sektor or bi Han
@@Deathmare235I’m sure in the story mode Scorpion acknowledges that the Lin Kuei wouldn’t follow him I think he called them Bi-Han loyalists so Scorpion had no choice but to leave tbh outside of Bi-Han letting his dad die he did nothing wrong from his perspective cause his loyalty and drive is to the Lin Kuei and strengthen the clan so plus he has an superiority complex kinda makes you think of Cell Saga Vegeta
@@Deathmare235 Bi-Han and the Lin Kuei don’t hate Liu Kang Bi Han just feels that since they are protecting the help they should help govern it as well so and to correct something I said in the first comment Scorpion said he left cause Cyrax and Sektor’s loyalty to Bi Han is absolute
I'm glad I stumbled upon this video on my home page because this video alone got me to sub to you. I love the way you broke down Bi-Han's entire character here! So much love, Man! Also, I remember watching a video somewhere that basically confirms that there will be a story expansion for MK1, and I again remember that in said video, it mentioned how Bi-Han and some robots are gonna crash Kuai & Harumi's wedding. Oh yeah, and I think Rain and Tanya are gonna have their own chapters or something, I forgor 💀
What's weird is that in this timeline Bi-Han is actually MUCH darker and willing to give in to evil and selfish tendencies than the last one. I doubt it'll take much corrupting for him to become Noob Saibot as he'a already corrupt. In the last timeline, from all the information there is regarding Bi-Han, he was a decent person as far as ninja assassins go. He cared about his family and clan and had lots of compassion/selflessness. The difference in personality between timelines is pretty crazy
The way bi han was portrayed in this story mode felt just like the new mortal kombat movie where he was like the main villain of the movie his attitude really I loved the fact thatbwe finally got to see the real first subzero bi han amd not get killed instead left us with a cliffhanger initiating the cyber lin kuie bi han was badass in this story being evil neutral good dont matter to me loved he didnt die
I feel like we need some sort of flashback or something that would show us his and his brother's childhood. Since he's grandmaster he's probably the oldest(it makes sense but I can't find his actual age on google) which probably means that he has had a lot of pressure on him since a young age and may have been mistreated in his eyes compared to his brothers which could explain his dislike towards his father.
@@karmatem I hope that we do get more info about his family life since we really don't know a lot. All we know is that his dad is dead and that his mom isn't there (she's probably dead too)
This is a great video man! I was intrigued the whole time, it’s hard to find gems like this on UA-cam. I enjoy getting a deeper understanding of these characters, and you did so perfectly🙌🏻
Great video. I wanna start by saying that I love Hanzo Hasashi, but I'm open to the change. I think it's interesting that Kuai Liang's whole purpose in previous games was his brother.Even his MK11 ending, he was fighting side by side with him. I think what we see in Bi Han is what he always was, but in the first time line he was killed before he could show his true intentions. With Scorpion as an ally/his own brother, we see the real Bi Han
Hmm, it seems that the creators took some elements from characters like Sektor and Frost and inserted them into Bi-Han's character in this new game. Bi-Han is similar to Frost in which they are against the old principles of the Lin Kuei even it the morals and intentions were good. In terms of Sektor, Bi-Han does have the plan of creating the Cyber Initiative as well. However, the difference is that unlike Sektor and Frost, Bi-Han actually has a regard for morals, order, peace, and balance in the world; he's not chaotic or morally corrupt like the other two. Plus, it's possible that in Bi-Han's ending for this game, he envisioned the Cyber Initiative having nothing to with sacrificing human lives and taking away their humanity; maybe he envisioned them just being 100% robots. Although Bi-Han did try to accept Shang Tsung's offer in the story mode, he didn't exactly side with him; he just wanted to use Shang Tsung for the power he desires without letting him know; Bi-Han does not want to betray Earthrealm (It's implied in certain parts of the game). He still wants to defend Earthrealm, just not by the orders of Liu Kang or his father. Plus, Bi-Han knows that his father and Liu Kang had good morals, but he believed that they were not using them in the right way. Bi-Han felt uncomfortable only doing things by the orders of others, not having enough freedom as an individual and as a leader. In previous timelines, Bi-Han became cold because he got pressured and abused by the Lin Kuei. It's possible that in this timeline, the father may have done something or more that left a huge impact on Bi-Han's life despite not having poor intentions. Eventually, Bi-Han grew disillusioned and embittered by the treatment his father gave him and lost concern for him, which could explain why he couldn't feel bad about letting him die. Plus, I think the reason why Kuai Liang and Smoke think Bi-Han is corrupt is because he's going against the ways Liu Kang and the father, but Bi-Han's more complicated than that. He just had different perspectives, but he still cared about morals and had no ill intent. Just because people have different opinions and point of views, it doesn't make them wrong.
It's good to see a video that seeks to understand the character. Of all the characters in MK, in my opinion, Bi Han was the most realistic character in the midway era. He wasn't someone good, but he wasn't evil either, he was the typical Asian who kills the enemy in combat because of honor. But when he became noob saibot, everything that was negative about him, he simply took over everything, he became, together with Ermac, the most powerful ninja in MK in the first timeline. In the era of Netherealm, they wrote bi han as simply someone who was a purely evil idiot or who tends to the bad side, so much so that noob nowadays is simply evil, and the old Bi han would never betray his father or his brother while he was alive, he was the Like a GTA character, he listens to orders and doesn't question. I'm just sad that Netherealm modified Bi Han so much, that there are fans who really believe that Bi Han has Frost's personality when they see him in mk1 2023.
Exactly how I feel about the way Bi-Han has been portrayed it also brings up a problem with MK fans (& it seems the writers) using Noob as a referencing point as to how Bi-Han was like in life. Using the actions of a corrupted person as a representation of a character is something I have never understood, it’s like if I used revenant Liu Kang’s actions as a reason as to why fire god Liu Kang should be a bad guy.
Im glad that you touch up on bi-hans Loral on why he still takes non sense bad ass attitude and such i like bi-han just that he is power hungry that being under liu kangs rule is not enough for him and his clan hopefully he gets a redemption arc.
I honestly really like the idea of Sub-Zero being an asshole but with his own reasons instead of being evil "just because". I hope they don't ruin his character and instead give him some redemption, and recognition of him being somewhat right in his own way.
Just a small note: Kuai Liang is just two syllables. Kwhy lyang. Like how Lin Kuei is two syllables. Lin Kway. It sounds like you’re saying Kawaii Lee Yang to me and I’m like aweee kawaii. 🥰 Great video! 👏 It makes me want to replay the story mode now that the Switch version’s Invasion mode is finally out and I’ve beat the main path. I hope Bi-Han doesn’t go cyborg next patch. He’s so pretty. But I can see how his avarice could lead him to get stronger and stronger by any means necessary.
Definitely 3 syllables. You could argue that when said properly, the first syllable of Liang is so soft it’s barely noticeable, but L can’t link with Y phonetically without creating a syllable.
The way they wrote Bi-Han was when the game story completely died for me. I was already teetering with him constantly just projecting bitter entitlement, but the moment when he turns evil after one speech from Shang Tsung, just so we can have scorpion vs sub zero yet again, was also the moment I realized how little nuance NRS was capable of writing. Compare him to his few pre-death appearances in the midway timeline, and the level nuance presented vs his MK1 story is practically night and day. The sad thing is, they could’ve actually played up an interesting gray morality storyline if Scorpion and Sub Zero clashed over tradition vs progress. Kuai Liang wants to push a cyber initiative in reference to his MK2 affinity for technology (obviously keeping their free will this time) while Bi Han wants to maintain the old ways. He’s stern, but ultimately compassionate, and wants to protect and help his brother, but fears they’re growing apart due to their viewpoints. Kuai Liang would be a bit more brash and energetic, always enticed by the prospect of advancing tech, but willing to hear his older brother’s concerns. But here’s the kicker: Kuai wouldn’t have any magic powers. Bi Han would be the only one with cryomancy and (harkening back to Kuai’s arc in Snow Blind) would see the powers as a burden and something he’s glad his brother doesn’t have to deal with. Kuai however wants these powers to better protect earthrealm, so his scorpion powers would be built around cyber tech (flame throwers, teleportation, a mechanical spear, etc.) The two would ultimately clash when Scorpion convinces Sektor and Cyrax to cyber up, and split from each other, Kuai Liang forming the Tekunin while Bi Han holds the Lin Kuei, both protecting earthrealm and still caring for each other but forever divided by their conflicting ideals.
That would be quite interesting. Whereas the original timeline it was Bi-Han that showed Sarena compassion, it'll be the opposite. Though I wonder how that would work though.
I think one interesting thing I want to point out is the possibility of how Bi-Han's childhood factors into all of this, because he probably was definitely put under a lot of pressure at a young age due to all the expectations on him. Being constantly pushed to your limits and having the expectation of success and ambition hammered into your brain at a young age will definitely not make a healthy child. This might also factor into how Bi-Han treats Tomas -- in his eyes, Tomas was a kid that their father pitied and was therefore given the priviledge of joining the Lin Kuei. To him, Tomas was just lucky and never truly had to work to become Lin Kuei, despite it being anything but that case. Hence why Bi-Han always told Tomas that he will "never be Lin Kuei" because he was never born Lin Kuei. And about the fight between Bi-Han and Kuai Liang, I do genuinely believe that Bi-Han never intended to kill Kuai, mainly maim him to teach him some sort of lesson. Every time Kuai gets knocked down, Bi-Han *waits* for him to get back up instead of striking him when he's caught off guard. I genuinely hope we get a Bi-Han redemption arc in the next game, because he's honestly one of the most interesting characters in MK1 for me. Great video!
Bi Han in the previous timelines had morals, he was not a saint but he was not evil before Quan Chi took away his humanity and the only one who understood this character well was John Tobias, however Ed Boon seems to hate this character to such an extent. that in this timeline his personality changed to that of a literal sektor in this timeline it is a sektor with blue color and ice powers I hope Netherealm Studios gives this character a redemption although I doubt this
I'm interested to see what will happen with Hanzo in this timeline. Because they already reference him through dialogue. They clearly aren't just going to cut Hanzo out of this new timeline, that would be dumb. But you also have to wonder what will happen to the 2 brothers so that Hanzo is allowed to take up his role as Scorpion once again.
24:43 There's one person w/o something covering their head, i wonder if their important? Edit: it's probably the guy building the robots, who is referred to here as Sektor, but it looks like there's a new/different Sektor so idk, they also look like they have slightly different hair types
I was lowkey vibing with him when he said he wanted to HELP lead Earthrealm, not take it from Liu Kang outright, he wanted his clan to be more than just guard dogs, I hope they delve more into Bi-Han like maybe their father was extra hard on him because he was the eldest sibling and the one to set an example and over the years he held some resentment that turned to hate which let to him leaving his father for dead, maybe after he becomes Noob Saibot or something we'll get some redemption
Agree that his statement that he wants HELP LEAD (not rule) feels more like that power is not what he desires, nor he is about to become a tyrant. But rather that he thinks that his clan is so great and skillful (and he is not wrong about it!) that they deserve to have a voice and be listened. Liu Kang made a mistake because of knowledge previous timeline. He tried to give everybody nice life (he even did not give a bad one to those who wanted neutralize, just life which would kept them away from power which always turned them into tyrants and monsters). That made him a little blind to the fact that Bi-han to be just his guard dog without actually a way how to use his hard trained skills in combat and having challenges (as he said after a years of idleness we finally face combat....) would make him conflicted. Something like why I am just sitting on my ass and doing some testing sparring partner for farmers and actor who are about to be champions while I am better then them (the way that he is ordered to keep back not to hurt them) and I could be much better champion. It does not make any sense from his point of view and make impression that Liu Kang is making them low and mediocre on purpose and he is the one who blocking their development and greatness. He does not know the huge problems which Liu Kang tried to avoid by it and that those farmers and actor actually are great as he is if given a proper training and they have a good heart as well - they will not use obtained power to usurp (which can not be said about Bi-han...and I am not telling he is bad person but well he is definitely not warmhearted)
No matter what anyone says I don’t think his characterization makes sense. He was raised to be a protector of earth realm but all of a sudden he not only abandons earth realm but sides with people & other species who literally want to conquer it? Bi-Han keeps saying his brothers lack vision but its Bi-Han who can’t see that his plan is the one who lacks vision. He’s turning his back on everything he’s ever known and trusting the word of some of the most untrustworthy people in all the realms. It’s forced and not how people think or act.
This is exactly what I think. I feel like the idea of hkm being frustrated with how the Lin Kuei are treated is a good idea but the execution is terrible. He has been raised to look after Earthrealm & has become arrogant because of his accomplishments. Surely, it would make more sense that the reason he turns on Liu Kang is because he believes that he can be a far better protector than Liu Kang. Of course, he would fundamentally misunderstand what being a protector is & see it as leading but having him have that arc is far better than ‘power gives me a boner’.
@@karmatem after listening to his interactions/intros with the rest of the kast, I am fully convinced he still holds his brothers in his heart. Yes, a heart, a frozen one at that. He even says to Kuai "you could have ruled by my side!", further cementing the fact at least, his brother is still there within his heart. Albeit frozen, it might be literally the reason why he wont budge. Theres even an interaction where Bi Han mentions his mother to Sindel (I think, not at home) telling her that if she saw him today in his current state and struggle, that she would applaud him. A frozen heart, exactly like Sub Zero's ending in MK11, Kuai redeemed his brother by "unfrozing" it. Let us hope that whatever comes out of this in the next years to come, do justice to his character. Either by redemption or damnation.
Cant Liu Kang like, show Bi-Han he was Noob Saibot in the other timeline? I think that if he does, Bi-Han would rethink his actions and would fight for earthrealm again. I really do hope he has some interactions with Sareena in the DLC too
and people just want him to die by the hands of scorpion all over again so we can just have noob saibot back not thinking about the possibilities of redemption bi-han can go through
He wanted power and was tired of peoole (Liu Kang & his father) "holding back" the Lin Kuei, so he was willing to betray his family and side with anyone that would allow him to free them into being the strongest force they can be There, that's all you need to understand Bihan
Bi han try so hard to guide tomas and kuai liang to loyal his new belief but once tomas and kuai liang reject his belief he turned against them seeing them as an temporary enemy and still wanting them to join the Lin kuei in his supremacy
i saw bi han as someone that had the lin kuei being hyped up to him since he was a child considering he was a would-be a grandmaster so him thinking so highly of his clan wasnt that strange and felt in character with this version of the character, as for the ego inhereting a title that was very important to him would make him think of himself highly and putting him in a position where he learns to idolize his newfound position and power without knowing what he should use it for clouding his judgement heavily, so im kinda surprised when i hear people his decisions dont make sense
This video is a well crafted, thoughtful analysis, and by extension, story, of what Bi-Han's internal locus, motivation might be. Which is more than what I can say about nrs's effort in that regard. Mk1 is a very poorly written story, with no real sense of the characters, least of all Bi-Han. The writer(s?), from the story presented, doesn't have a strong grasp on who any of these characters are, even in the context of a "new timeline". The power structures, character interactions, motivations, are senseless and careless. It seemed like everything was clumsily pushing the characters to a place that's "good enough".
Someone else made this theory Bi Han as the elder son was pushed way to hard by his father, which made him have this perspective about superiority in order to please his father, but because of this he sees the Lin kuei as Mediocre under his fathers leadership, which led him to kill him
Basically this story mode is before the subzero mythologies game since is the new era of lui kang plus in one intro wit bi han and lui kang he says you will not take the scroll pr element off the wimd of elements temple referring to subzero mythologies second level when he goes on the wind temple to reveive the element or scroll off fujin
Considering bi-Han uses ice powers and calling himself ‘Sub-zero’ his quite hot-headed and explosive, while kuai liang is more cold thinking and ‘chill’
Bi-Han doesn't want to kill his brothers throughout the game, he really wants them to understand his perspective, and for them to join him. From where he stands, he isn't the aggressor, he feels like the only intelligent person with vision, while his brothers cling to a weak past they could surpass.
Exactly. I noticed in all of the intros he almost never mentions killing smoke or scorpion. He only says things like he wants to harm/hurt them while he outright says he will kill other characters in intros. Along with him showing sympathy for sindels death in story mode to kitana and mileena.
He also seemingly intentionally only scarred scorpion when he could have killed him in their fight.
AH no His BROTHER. I’m pretty sure he doesn’t really like smoke. He doesn’t even consider him Lin kuei because he is not their blood.
@@korruptor9777 He doesn't like him, yet is unwilling to kill him.
Might not consider him a true Lin Kuei, but probably still views him as a brother.
dude is basically like vegeta
I wish the story mode explored more of Bi-Han's thoughts on the tournament. Like it feels like it would make sense for him to think, why can't he or other members of the Lin Kuei be champions (Yeah I know, Ninjas and all) but he could still feel that Liu Kang judgment is off. I mean seriously, two farmers, an ex-gangster, and a movie star is who you pick. But not anyone from the clan of warriors meant to protect earthrealm? That could have been so convincing If they had him say something like that to his brothers, but instead we have to try and guess how he feels. Also this sounds better then just, power hungry angry man. Make his angry comes from something convincing.
There’s also an intro dialogue where he’s asked by an Outworlder “Why are Lin Kuei never earthrealm champions?”
Bi-Han responds with “so Outworld doesn’t lose every tournament”.
@@maxrichards3881I mean... Even Non-Lin Kuei people are able to beat Outworlders 🤣. Remember when Liu said to General Shao how Earthrealmers ALWAYS win the tournament?
@@wonderman7166
Not always.
Liu Kang said himself that the realms are evenly matched.
It could also be like mk11 where cryomancers and the lin que in general came originally from outworld so it may disqualify them
We have Invansion modes, so there likely we would get Bi Han side story. We already have Scorpion, and Nitara Invansion modes, so Bi Han must be in it
Said it once, will say again. Making Scorpion Kauai Liang was a goated move, from enemies, to rivals, to friends and now to brothers. Love it
And now a rival between brothers
The rivalry is overplayed and overstayed. Even in the OG timeline it stopped being a thing around MK4.
@@wakkaseta8351
Naw, will never get old.
Idk bro wouldn’t it have been interesting to see a young Hanzo and shirai ryu clan fight along side bi-Han and Lin kuei but all the while having a rivalry between them?
I feel like before Bi-Han cut Kuai Lang face there was a moment where Kuai thought his brother wasn't going to hurt him, because Kuai looks generally surprised when he didn't see a dagger in his brothers hand.
Kaui looked surprised because the dagger was not in the hand he was defending himself from.
@@6thraikagemike426good point!
Yes and then he strikes his face. Plus notice how bi han clinched his fist/hand to kuai in a emotional way to ask him to join him. Like he didn’t want to loose him 😢
@@darlingxluxii7977 I mean, the hand clenching could just be typical posturing, but we have no clear clue what's going on in Bi-Han's head.
The fact that Bi Han had a clear open shot to kill his brother and didn’t proves that Bi Han still loves his brother. If the writers have any sense at all, they’ll let Bi Han redeem himself later down the road
In a small way, I do kind of get Bi-Han’s frustration. Liu Kang made the Lin Kuei an organisation dedicated to protecting Earthrealm. So why were they not selected to be Earthrealm’s champions? Surely it made sense for them to be selected rather than two farmers, an actor and a former gangster? And if there’s peace between the realms, then the Lin Kuei literally have no use. I understand Bi-Han’s frustration and the desire for more, but I don’t agree with his decision to team up with Shang Tsung.
Just as Liu Kang said to Li Mei about Shang Tsung working his way into Shao's head, he did the same to Bi-Han. Both men hate what they perceive to be Liu Kang putting a stranglehold on the potential of their people and want that influence gone.
That actually makes so much sense, imagine being trained your entire life as a warrior, become the grandmaster of a centuries old clan, and possess amazing powers, only for a fucking seemingly random ass farmer to be given a cool amulet crafted by the fucking gods
yeah despite I have no tolerance with his way how to deal with it, his frustration makes sense. Not only because the great honor and glory was given a people who did not dedicate whole life to serve and protect and did not train to be warrior (and are weaker then him, at least in the beginning), it is about their servitude as well. Instead of being partner for Liu Kang, he is just his servant to do what he desires without asking Bi-Han opinion (it is obvious that the test of champions was humiliating for him). I understand both perspective Liu Kang and Bi-Han. Liu Kang gave them actually improvement given their previous timeline from his point of view. But Bi-Han has grown up without any idea of some previous timeline, so it is not improvement from his point of view. Desire to have a word and making decision (at least for his clan what they will do and under their terms) makes such a sense from his point of view.
You know it’s funny.
In hindsight, if Liu Kang didn’t rush his decisions. And choose Bi-Han, Kuai Liang, and Smoke to infiltrate Outworld and capture Shang Tsung.
They would have been successful, and none of this mess would have escalated further.
Whose to say the same events wouldn't happen, but only earlier? We don't know if Shang Tsung always had a plan to goad Bi-Han to betraying Liu Kang even before the Earthrealmers mission to capture Shang Tsung; if he did already have a plan by then, then Bi-Han would have just betrayed Liu Kang much earlier in the story.
Bi-Han was already chafing under Liu Kangs orders. He knew the grandmaster was no longer entirely trustworthy.
It's likely Shang would have simply made the same pitch if he was captured, that he made when the ninjas were.
@@dustinjones7458
But Bi-Han only listeneed because 1. He was caught and 2. The proof was in front of him. Imagine Shang Tsung trying to explain to Bi-Han "no bro, seriously, i have like a crown and ancient chinese robots. Please work with me."
@@jonahhudson2052 Shang Tsung knew the buttons to push. Having leverage was useful, but not vital. He would still have sold Bi-Han on what seemed like an ultimatum.
Do their bidding and remain a slave. Or seize power and see how far it takes you. Bi-Han seems destined to take the second choice. Letting his father die was a step he already took. And like with any dark act...the next one is easier. He'd already betrayed his own family for the sake of the Lin Kuei. Betraying a God was easier, and he was just looking for an opportunity. And guess what, Shangs the best elixir salesman ever!
@@dustinjones7458I’m gonna keep it real with you man this was cope. Sub Zero only listened because he had to. Yes yes Shang is a good salesman and all that but again Sub Zero had literally no choice BUT to listen because he had been captured, and this was because Shang knew about their arrival and had already planned for it.
If the LK brothers infiltrated outworld earlier in the story (and why the fuck would they not, they’re the fucking ninjas), Shang most likely would’ve been caught off guard because he wouldn’t have had time to get familiarized with Liu Kang’s decision making. We saw how Sub Zero freed up Ermac AND Nitara on his own; you don’t think he would’ve had Shang in a chokehold? There wouldn’t have even BEEN a sales pitch to talk about because bro would’ve probably been knocked out cold.
Bi-Han isn't bad in my opinion, he is more like a cold hearted person. I think NRS are gonna go with his Journey like the Mythologies maybe Bi-Han starts as an cold hearted prick but eventually becomes a anti-hero type character after meeting with Sareena.
I’d love to see this!
part of me wants this, the other part of me wants bi-han and sareena to be a despicable, evil, crime-committing powercouple
I really, really hope that's the case for a story dlc
They have Sareena and live Bi Han in the same game and they didn't even interact!
But they already gave the Sareena/Sisterhood of Shadow plotline to Ashrah
I’m not liking he way there taking bi Hans story and I haven’t liked the way he’s been treated since John tobais left midway (think he was the last person who actually understood his character” however I will fully forgive NRS if we can get a reverse of the old timeline and have Sareena redeem Bi Han instead of them just never meeting
Writers need to remember that the world isn't black and white. Good people and evil people do exist, but sometimes people are just assholes. Not sadists that find joy in chaos and harming others, and not even people with different axioms, just people that are insufferable dicks. I really like Bi-Han in MK1 purely because he's not necessarily a villain, but someone who is willing to go against the heroes to do something he believes in- and it makes me really excited for a potential redemption arc. Great video!
thankyou so much! you get it!!
Bi-Han is a great example of "bad good people"
Maybe him losing something that he values most?... Imagine the Lin Kuei dissolves or is entirely destroyed by either Liu Kang or the Shirai Ryu?... What would happen to Bi Han if that happened? 🤔
@@wonderman7166or Sektor does a rebellion leaving him with Only Cyrax or Sarrena being in danger after a relationship between them
I mean Bi Han was always an Anti Hero to a degree especially in MK Mythologies but this Version just leaned too far to Evil probably because he got Power far too Early changing both his mentality and arc,
Without MK Mythologies and without that Lack of Power restraining him, it probably resulted in this version of Bi Han, having All of the Ruthlessness and Pride of his Original Counterpart but None of his attempts at Redeemption before his tragic death, this also means Serena still remains Evil unlike her OG Counterpart.
Remember, Bi Han saved Earthrealm from quan chi and shinnok in Mortal Kombat mythologies. Bi Han is not a completely evil person, but he is selfish and power-hungry. I like to think that there is good in him. If it wasn’t for his greed, he would be a great older brother to Kuai-Liang.
he wasnt good. But he wasnt pure evil, he was basically anti-villan to neutral chaotic. Dude isn't really moral but he also has a code of conduct. So i guess he is noble ish? or right but not good. which is different mind you. he should be atleast neutral or like a vegeta type. He is very self centered and he only cares about a handful of things but i don't think og bi han was greedy nor power hungry, i even remembered that he asked raiden if what quan chi said about him being tainted genuinely bothered him. Its just that he was an assassin and kills people for a living so he would be tainted. But i cant seem to remember in the other games where it says that he wanted to retire. I feel like NRS should have sticked to the Og characterization of bi han as a very cold ruthless assassin, very pragmatic. Is not concerned about morality or the greater good rather he only focuses on what matters to him which is his clan, brother but maybe this time show more of his code of conduct as an assassin. TBH i don't really want him to be like liu kang where he is the most moral. he is an assassin after all.
The only reason he beat Quan Chi and Shinnok in Mythologies was because Raiden had to force him to, Bi Han was and is a dick.
He also let Sareena live because he saw himself in her.
@@jmgonzales7701 Neutral evil define him best, he dosent care about conquering the world but is dead set in the lin kuei get power.
@@raro344 yeah i ģuess thats in the new timeline. Og timeline he was lawful neutral.
Bi-Han is the most human character in Mortal Kombat, i wish that he doesn't become noob in this one, and rather gets redeemed, and grow as a character.
Even as Noob he guilted Raiden that he died unfairly.
Since his ending confirms the cyber initiative i don`t think he would be unwiling to become a cyborg himself.
@@lukalovric2463The Cyber Initiative is the construction of robots not cyborgs (yet). Bi Han would never willingly become a cyborg. He's always been a massive technophobe
@@The_GK1 If that was the case, why kickstart it in te first place?
@@The_GK1 that is true within Malibu comic book
I kind of like how arrogant he is. But its not out of spite.
It’s because he just wants the best for his clan but he really doesn’t want to submit/be under someone else.
exactly
Doesn’t this remind you of a certain Jedi Knight who had so much potential and power yet he feels like he’s being held back? 😏😏
Bi Han is just like Rain from previous timelines. Blinded by power, hates his father and brothers, got some cool abilities.
More like Sektor really minus being a Cyborg
Dang never really thought about that, but you’re right. And I always hated how one dimensional and boring that made Rain. And I hate seeing my boy Bi Han a one dimensional power hungry edge lord.
When lin kuei trailer dropped. And his "die like my father" came out I thought he would go through something like.
abusive father that hates bi han but not kuai liang.
lin kuei treated as lackeys by liu Kang
sub asks for more than just being protectors
liu Kang says no and uses God powers to show he is more powerful and 'makes' bibjan submit peacefully
lin kuei members are part of outworld mk tournament
during shang sung investigation, liu kang's orders to bi han caused many lin kuei's humiliation and damage. Bi han who was against this becomes frustrated.
eventually kuai ends up severely injured by further liu Kang orders. While liu is a good person, these mistakes happen because unforseen circumstances. Eventually causing bi han to seek either quan chi or shang to help ressurect kuai or restore kuai
kuai gets restored. Bi han keeps meeting with deadly alliance from liu Kang a secret.
deadly alliance continues to gain bi han favor by helping lin kuei. Causing bi han to truly hate liu Kang.
lin kuei trio finds shang, smoke tries to eradicate shang, bi han decides to save shang. Turning against his brothers.
So he has the prideful, selfish, power hungry Archetype
Edit: I was gonna make a Vageta joke about Bi-Han’s Hairline, but I realized it’s curved and con-caved, instead of slim and pointy
@@creeper4481 yes. He is neutral to anti villian.
Great analysis man. You’re the first person I’ve heard actually delve into his character and portrayal in MK1-and not just complaining about it (like myself, ha). I’m guilty of it because I just love Bi Han and he’s my favorite character.
yeah I completely understand the criticism his writing gets, so I felt taking this approach would be better to see what they did give us opposed to what they didn’t!
Ok but is there a lore reason why Bi-Han is so damn beautiful
asking the real questions
@@karmatem maybe it's maybelline, maybe it's liu kang?
They made him the Chinese gigachad😂
That's the answer we need
Liu Kang decided to make everyone hot ig
The curse of being strong is such a wise take. Most people only see the surface level of Bi Han's persona, but they don't pay attention to his choice of words and actions. I see Bi Han as a warrior spirit, reminded me a lot of Vegeta from DBZ. He's prideful in his skill and clan, arrogant with good reason, and wants to bring his people to the highest station he feels they deserves. You can see how quickly his personality changed while he was on mission with his brothers, he wasn't so aggressive towards them, showed he cared by asking if they were harmed, and repeatedly mentioned how he relished in worthy combat. Liu Kang's biggest mistake was trying to turn a warrior into a glorified guard dog. He ignored the obvious signs of Bi Han's displeasure.
While I have many speculative thoughts on his personality and thought process, I’d like to table some of them:
Bi-Han’s cold assertion that Smoke and (especially) Kuai “obey” their grandmaster likely stems from Bi-Han being told the same. Likely his father needed to keep him on a tight leash and from Bi-Han’s perspective he “obeyed” the previous grandmaster despite disagreeing with him. And because he did, he expects others to do so as well.
It’s reasonable to assume that Bi-Han is one of (if not) the most talented members of the Lin Kuei. And his prodigious talent was in all likelihood apparent from an early age, fueling that superiority complex. He’s used to being the best and to him any assertion otherwise is deeply offensive (like Kung Lao).
Add to it his growing up watching and hearing the exploits of the great Lin Kuei saving and defending earth realm time and time again. He would see them as the “reason” earth realm is safe - particularly if it appeared like the Lin Kuei were doing all the dirty work while Liu Kang simply doled out orders from the sidelines.
Bi-Han is deeply flawed and I think that makes him a fascinating character. I don’t think it was bad writing with his betrayal but it could’ve been done better. Mostly because from what we see, Bi-Han himself isn’t loyal to Liu Kang. It’s not really a betrayal because he doesn’t care. He wants greatness for the clan and by extension himself and he’s willing to follow a path that he feels can get him there. That’s why rather than sign up right away with Shang Tsung, he asks questions and raises doubts even if he sides with him in the end.
What if Bi-Han's arrogance comes from the fact he is Grandmaster? In the original timeline, only Kuai Lang became grandmaster. In the original, Sektor's father was grandmaster.
@@n0cturnalravenf0rest ah yes, just skimmed past details on my end
Kuai Liang also made his Brother Co-Grandmaster but Kuai knows his own brother so he rewrites history specifically to make Bi Han Good, Liu Kang doesn't know who Bi Han is, so he fails despite making Bi Han Grandmaster the same as Kuai,
Its possible that before Bi Han in the OG timeline became more compationate and dutiful he is a whole lot closer to this Bi Han (who ironically acts more like Sektor) Bi Han in the OG timeline is more proffessional in his demenor, he acts Coldly and is more Brutal but him being of a lower possition in the Clan made it so that he wasn't Power Hungry but will follow his Clan's goals no matter how dubious as Bi Han always walks the line between Good and Evil, in the OG timeline he had a Chance in MK Mythologies but by MK he died and never redeemed himself,
Without that intial lack of Power and then his MK Mythologies Arc, resulted in this Bi Han, amplifying his Ruthlessness rather than tempering it. (On a Side Note also without MK Mythologies Serena remains Evil as well, meaning Liu Kang really misunderstood Bi Han as an individual.)
@@forickgrimaldus8301 hey, didnt ashrah save serena in her ending?
@@thedoomwaderyeah somebody already said it in one of the other comments that in her ending she saves her and they start the order of light
@@forickgrimaldus8301that would make sense if it weren’t for the fact that he let his father die suggesting the new timeline Bi-Han was always power hungry to begin with
Everything you mentioned in this video is exactly how I saw him as I went through Bi-Han's content in the game!
He's heavily resentful of how much the Lin Kuei's strength was downplayed to being guards because of his dad. And even though we don't see any clear devotion to the bond with Kuai Liang and Tomas, he really did want them to be by his side in this chance for the group to be greater.
It's interesting that you called him "self-centered" because I only described him as selfish whenever I thought about him. BUT it makes sense because of that superiority that you highlighted.
I really appreciate that you took this analytical approach in an unbiased lens. I've seen a few people react to Bi-Han's actions harshly or in an enamored way. They're valid in doing so but it's refreshing to see someone tackle his character so far in an almost psychological way.
Great work!
When lin kuei trailer dropped. And his "die like my father" came out I thought he would go through something like.
abusive father that hates bi han but not kuai liang.
lin kuei treated as lackeys by liu Kang
sub asks for more than just being protectors
liu Kang says no and uses God powers to show he is more powerful and 'makes' bibjan submit peacefully
lin kuei members are part of outworld mk tournament
during shang sung investigation, liu kang's orders to bi han caused many lin kuei's humiliation and damage. Bi han who was against this becomes frustrated.
eventually kuai ends up severely injured by further liu Kang orders. While liu is a good person, these mistakes happen because unforseen circumstances. Eventually causing bi han to seek either quan chi or shang to help ressurect kuai or restore kuai
kuai gets restored. Bi han keeps meeting with deadly alliance from liu Kang a secret.
deadly alliance continues to gain bi han favor by helping lin kuei. Causing bi han to truly hate liu Kang.
lin kuei trio finds shang, smoke tries to eradicate shang, bi han decides to save shang. Turning against his brothers.
Show less
thankyou for the kind words!
I’m hoping sub gets a redemption arc sometime. I really like bi Hans gameplay and design
he’s so cool in this game man
@@karmatem except his personality the og bi Han isn’t evil he was just doing what he was raised to do and he clearly cared for kuai more in the og since kuai was willing to die to avenge him and if og bi Han met now he would rip out his spine and keep it as a trophy for touching kuai
@@karmatemyeah his moves give me chills every time
According to some leaks for the story expansion you get your wish
Yes, he gets it in story DLC
Man I love this comment section. Finally some Bi-Han appreciation. I like new Bi-Han's design but he is acting a little bit delusional and idiot. Character wise OG Bi-Han was so good. Professional cold assassin.
When lin kuei trailer dropped. And his "die like my father" came out I thought he would go through something like.
abusive father that hates bi han but not kuai liang.
lin kuei treated as lackeys by liu Kang
sub asks for more than just being protectors
liu Kang says no and uses God powers to show he is more powerful and 'makes' bibjan submit peacefully
lin kuei members are part of outworld mk tournament
during shang sung investigation, liu kang's orders to bi han caused many lin kuei's humiliation and damage. Bi han who was against this becomes frustrated.
eventually kuai ends up severely injured by further liu Kang orders. While liu is a good person, these mistakes happen because unforseen circumstances. Eventually causing bi han to seek either quan chi or shang to help ressurect kuai or restore kuai
kuai gets restored. Bi han keeps meeting with deadly alliance from liu Kang a secret.
deadly alliance continues to gain bi han favor by helping lin kuei. Causing bi han to truly hate liu Kang.
lin kuei trio finds shang, smoke tries to eradicate shang, bi han decides to save shang. Turning against his brothers.
he wasnt good. But he wasnt pure evil, he was basically anti-villan to neutral chaotic. Dude isn't really moral but he also has a code of conduct. So i guess he is noble ish? or right but not good. which is different mind you. he should be atleast neutral or like a vegeta type.
You in the same comment section as me? I see ALOT more hate for Bi-Han, and the UA-camr who made this. Maybe it was more positive when you made this. But yes me too nice to see Bi-Han Appreciation.
He replaced sektor
Bi-Han reminds me a lot of Boromir. Everything he does makes perfect sense from his point of view, yet we're judging because we know the whole situation.
A great breakdown of the inner workings of Bi Han's mind. I'm simply holding out hope that the writers were just demonstrating Bi Han's harsher and unforgiving side to him before giving us the dessert that is his redemption
In regards to his tower ending, I'm thinking that it may play into his redemption. Going off what we've seen, the Cyber Initiative currently is the production of robots. Bi Han wanted to bolster numbers. Cyborgs wouldnt do that. My guess is that his and Sektor's interests will diverge eventually as Sektor being the "anything for progress" guy will decide to convert their men into cyborgs whilst Bi Han is reluctant to trade his clan's humanity, (He's always been a technophobe) therefore leading to mutiny and possible redemption.
Of course, I haven't even mentioned Sareena yet. And given how the Temple of the Elements has been referenced a number of times and will eventually show up, I'm gonna put my two cents on two specific people ending up there
The leaks are out for the expansion story.
SPOILERS:
Yes, Bi-han has a redemption arc 😅 kinda. In his own terms, i guess.
Thank god he is getting a redemption.
@user-ci5lr6te2j is not a completed redemption, though.
Explain
@nikeiyomiuri2728
SPOILERS
Bi-han is force to become noob-sabiot and mind controller by havik but later, Liu kang managed at least to restore his mind after that bi-han temporarily join the hero side just to get vengeance against havik which ironically he end up beating all the minions and havik killing them except for havik since he was stopped by liu kang which we don't know was by beating him or he actually complies and finally bi-han is lock up in the temple of the elements. (Liu kang hopes to restore him and to free him from havik chaos magic). Is not a complete redemption because although he end-up saving the multiverse, it is just the byproduct of getting his vengeance against havik and also Kuai-liang and bi-han they still hate each other.
Edit: when i mention havik a talking about the one in the post credits scene which is also a TITAN.
I love the fact that we can come together and discuss things like this. Bi-Han is a fictional character but to me, the writers did a good job in that we are here discussing who and what Bi-Han is, relating to the very human aspects of his character, it is so exciting to me. I agree with most of what this video explained and I feel like Bi-Han has always been a polarizing character. Before, we focused so much on Kuai Liang Sub Zero, it's good to get more insight into his older brother, who, let's face it, we really haven't had nearly as much lore on until now, many people focusing more on the Noob Saibot version of him. Many people write him off as just plain evil, and he's not ever been that, an ass but not evil. There are aspects of Bi-Han that I think are admirable, and of course other aspects that are quite detestable. Bi-Han is a complicated character and I think everyone knows a Bi-Han, I know I do lol. This is great, this is really really great I'm really happy I found this channel
thankyou so much!
I’m at the start of this video but I’m really glad ppl are analyzing Bi-Han, it really felt like his character wasn’t given enough room to be fully explained in game (at least imo) and he felt like just an asshole at times while I could also kind of tell there was more to him that we just weren’t being given. He’s such a fascinating character.
His writing is quite frustrating in this story. They actually came up with good stuff for his character & then fumbled it when they made him let his dad die & made power his main motivation. I would think it far better for him to be a fallen hero who gets more & more disillusioned with Liu Kang & his father’s teachings as events unfold, this would lead to Bi-Han wanting the Lin Kuei to lead Earth as a protector & replace Liu Kang who he sees unfit.
Like how Bi-Han is one of the best written characters of MK1, from this analysis
Man I love Bi-Han
bi-han lovers rejoice
The saddest part of mk 1 is how they rushed with story.I wished they took more time to showcharacters thoughts and build them emotionally(Bi-Han,Reiko,Smoke are prime examples.)
👏👏👏 this is refreshing content, ive seen like 50x of the same MK1 video. Dope to finally see something more thought out.
i appreciate you!!
I like to believe that Bi-Han only feigned the guilt of letting his father die because of how the tragedy deeply scarred him.
And that because of his ego, he would rather play the bad guy than admit that his mistake costed the life of a loved one.
How this would tie into his ambitions for the Lin Kuei is simple: that he wishes for no more of them to die as nameless soldiers like his father and those before him did.
This is also why he commissioned the Cyber Initiative, to bolster their vanguard without having to send in living people as fodders - at least until Sektor betrays him for whatever reason and starts Cyberizing members of the clan against their will.
As for why is he always lashing out to Tomas for being adopted, maybe it's because it irks him how an adopted child is more eager to uphold his father's legacy than he does. It's the guilt for essentially betraying his father eating him away.
But I love your interpretation from A-to-Z.
Extrapolating from existing material with some heavy psychology sure beats filling the blanks with melodramatic tangents like mine.
That makes so much sense
"Throughout heaven and earth, he alone is the selfish one" 💀💀💀
LOLOL
Nice jjk reference
I genuinely think bi han feels the lin kuei are being snubbed. They appear to be earthrealms chief strike force and bi han is earth's premier warrior and yet they are not asked to represent earth realm instead the white lotus society is the preferred choice. Doubly annoying when he is asked to "test" the supposed champions as if he has nothing better to do.
The lin kuei also seem to be the only humans capable of sorcery which was a gift to raiden for being earths champion to level the playing field. All this seems to grate on bi han.
I actually think bi-han is acting undercover. His betrayal is too on the nose. There is no version of events that kuai liang sides with bi han after "i let father die".
That could still be re-interpreted or retconned as Bi-Han blaming himself for failing to save his father (survivor's guilt and all that jazz), which could make a good springboard for his redemption.
@@genericweeb7300 I actually would have liked a set up like this where instead of outright ambition. He genuinely thought to strengthen the lin kuei and himself due to letting his father die
@@genericweeb7300that would be a dumb retcon though
@@Deathmare235Nah I think this would be very smart but needs to be executed in a sensitive manner. The circumstances surrounding the death of the father is very important and it wouldn’t be hard to believe that Bi-Han either killed his father directly or was completely incapable of helping him. There’s a lot of variable. For example if Bi-Han had nothing to do with his father dying and only said that to try and force Scorpion to his side, or if Bi-Han is delusional and in the best of the moment said that he “Let his father die” just so that he could maintain some sense of control as if he was saying “Nah… I’m totally not in over my head! I’ve been masterminding this the whole time! I’ve got this shit 😎 just keep following me” There’s so much that we still don’t know 😂
@@gamester1440 they both sound like bad options, there’s no way bi Han would think that telling him his father died would convince his brother to join him
The way you break down Bi-Han seems to parallel Dr Doom's personality and motivations. The arrogance that stems from his own sense of superiority, the blind ambition that leads to reckless, selfish actions and the need to enforce his authority on all his lessers. Very good video.
thankyou!
This version of Bi Han reminds me of Vegeta
honestly yeah lol
He even sounds and acts like Vegeta.
@@karmatemYour drawing of the hot purple skinned babe is nice.
Here's the big question: Will he have a redemption like Vegeta? Will Sareena be his Bulma? XD
@@s.m.d.8221 Possibly.
"Easily beat these losers!"
"We were holding back tho"
"THIS PROFOUND AND INSIDIOUS FORM OF NARCISSISM IS MOST OFTEN ROOTED IN YEARS OF ONE'S EXPECTATIONS NOT BEING MET!"
He is too disappointed all the time
man it's so refreshingly nice to have someone give in-game ideas instead of shitting on the story! Your ashrah video is my favorite btw!
thankyou so much!
Bi Han reminds me of my father in his younger years. It takes a Wolf to catch a Wolf.
I think it would be super interesting if Kuai Liang dies and becomes Noob Saibot, forcing Bi-Han to reevaluate his purpose and his relationship with his brothers. Suddenly his brother, a paragon of goodness, becomes a demonic embodiment of evil, and he must reconcile just how far he’s fallen from his father’s teachings. It could force him to at least attempt to atone, and his relationship with Tomas will be even more nuanced by that point.
Tomas is already mentoring Hanzo Hasashi, so...
Many do not understand his motives, thinking right away that he is evil, he might seem like that, his character is much deeper than that and I really appreciate that video
Dude you’ve got a gift for looking into a character and what makes them unique, I had this same thought process through the whole game, subscribed man.
Btw Bi-Han is probably my most favourite character so I’m glad Netherealm are taking their time to give him as Sub-Zero the spotlight.
I think people also need to take into account this Bi-Han is still far from being fully corrupted like MK Og and 2011 timelines, he’s not dead yet and Sareena and him have just met.
The problem is that he’s been written as this irredeemable, power hungry asshole when that completely defeats the point of Noob. Bi-Han in the OG timeline wanted to run away from the clan as his ending shows but was killed before he could do so. Taking the desire of redemption away from Bi-Han & turning him into Noob way before he is corrupted just makes Noob moot.
If people never played or watched Sub Zero Mythologies, you will understand how Bi Han is.
he wasnt good. But he wasnt pure evil, he was basically anti-villan to neutral chaotic. Dude isn't really moral but he also has a code of conduct. So i guess he is noble ish? or right but not good. which is different mind you.
@@jmgonzales7701 he’s always been Neutral. He only wants best for his clan
@@ElViperr408 this time he kinda is more evil
fax that man was alwas n anti herothey just leaned him closer to evil after death
@@randumeffects3425 wouldnt say he is anti hero. More of lawful neutral
I just hope Bi han can be saved in this timeline we dont need noob to be Bi han the thing is there is a reason that Kuai Liang was made scorpion in this universe I believe he can save his brother.
Bi-Han is basically Anakin Skywalker
I know this is months ago, but how is he like Anakin?
(I don’t mean it in a rude way, I just wanna know)
@@DarthTrooper2021 you even Star Wars, fam?
@@dellebelphine-moralez3510 of course, I’m just trying to see your reasoning or perspective on it. Like how they are actually related
@@DarthTrooper2021 you know how Bi Han ends ups betraying Smoke and Kuai in Story Mode? It’s pretty similar as to how Anakin betrayed the Jedi Order (when Palps goaded him into choosing the Dark Side. The only difference is that Anakin wanted the power and ability to save Padme while Bi Han just wanted power.)
Ya get it now?
@@dellebelphine-moralez3510 ok I see it now. Thanks
From what was leaked, the Lin Kuei seem to be a big part the DLC story. So more story/character development
Bi han will be turned into Noob saibot in the upcoming expansion, Sektor goes to look for help from Liu kang. To save bi han
How’d you know? Did you data mine the game?
@dellebelphine-moralez3510 the leaks of the scripts are already out
Also its important to note all the VS interactions that he has with the other cast. The most interesting things I saw was when smoke remarks that father would be disappointed, he counters that mother would not be, so his ideals did not spring from his mind alone (the fact Scorpion has to leave is actually proof that the majority of the rank and file agree with Bi Han). Also, it does seem from his general interactions that he wants Scorpion to be part of the Lin Kuei. There are probably alot more.
which could lead to a possible dlc
Ngl I feel like scorpion leaving the Lin kuei is just dumb, could’ve had scorpion leading a faction of the Lin kuei who split off to join the shirai ryu I mean the king kuei are meant to be earth’s defenders and cyrax isn’t as hostile as sektor or bi Han
@@Deathmare235I’m sure in the story mode Scorpion acknowledges that the Lin Kuei wouldn’t follow him I think he called them Bi-Han loyalists so Scorpion had no choice but to leave tbh outside of Bi-Han letting his dad die he did nothing wrong from his perspective cause his loyalty and drive is to the Lin Kuei and strengthen the clan so plus he has an superiority complex kinda makes you think of Cell Saga Vegeta
@@DanielThomas-nv1gzthe lin kuei we’re dedicated to earth realm’s defence and there was nothing about them hating Liu Kang
@@Deathmare235 Bi-Han and the Lin Kuei don’t hate Liu Kang Bi Han just feels that since they are protecting the help they should help govern it as well so and to correct something I said in the first comment Scorpion said he left cause Cyrax and Sektor’s loyalty to Bi Han is absolute
I'm glad I stumbled upon this video on my home page because this video alone got me to sub to you. I love the way you broke down Bi-Han's entire character here! So much love, Man!
Also, I remember watching a video somewhere that basically confirms that there will be a story expansion for MK1, and I again remember that in said video, it mentioned how Bi-Han and some robots are gonna crash Kuai & Harumi's wedding.
Oh yeah, and I think Rain and Tanya are gonna have their own chapters or something, I forgor 💀
thankyou so much!
And that he will become noob and have a Redemption Arc
@@byronburgess8061not really redemption
What's weird is that in this timeline Bi-Han is actually MUCH darker and willing to give in to evil and selfish tendencies than the last one. I doubt it'll take much corrupting for him to become Noob Saibot as he'a already corrupt.
In the last timeline, from all the information there is regarding Bi-Han, he was a decent person as far as ninja assassins go. He cared about his family and clan and had lots of compassion/selflessness. The difference in personality between timelines is pretty crazy
The way bi han was portrayed in this story mode felt just like the new mortal kombat movie where he was like the main villain of the movie his attitude really I loved the fact thatbwe finally got to see the real first subzero bi han amd not get killed instead left us with a cliffhanger initiating the cyber lin kuie bi han was badass in this story being evil neutral good dont matter to me loved he didnt die
he should be atleast neutral or like a vegeta type.
@@jmgonzales7701he was a Vegeta type in the og
@@Deathmare235 yeah
I feel like we need some sort of flashback or something that would show us his and his brother's childhood. Since he's grandmaster he's probably the oldest(it makes sense but I can't find his actual age on google) which probably means that he has had a lot of pressure on him since a young age and may have been mistreated in his eyes compared to his brothers which could explain his dislike towards his father.
oh wow this is true! I didn’t really think about the pressure he must have gone through growing up.
@@karmatem I hope that we do get more info about his family life since we really don't know a lot. All we know is that his dad is dead and that his mom isn't there (she's probably dead too)
Kuai Liang was always the younger brother.
i was hoping bi han was taking the offer as a ploy to get the shackles off and fight their way out but no
This is a great video man! I was intrigued the whole time, it’s hard to find gems like this on UA-cam. I enjoy getting a deeper understanding of these characters, and you did so perfectly🙌🏻
thankyou so much! i greatly appreciate it.
Great video. I wanna start by saying that I love Hanzo Hasashi, but I'm open to the change. I think it's interesting that Kuai Liang's whole purpose in previous games was his brother.Even his MK11 ending, he was fighting side by side with him. I think what we see in Bi Han is what he always was, but in the first time line he was killed before he could show his true intentions. With Scorpion as an ally/his own brother, we see the real Bi Han
I can’t help but think about how Frost would’ve loved Bi-Han as grandmaster
"I won't allow female Lin Kuei."
@@jolyne1541 damn u got me there🤣🤣 I feel like she could’ve earned his respect eventually lol
Hmm, it seems that the creators took some elements from characters like Sektor and Frost and inserted them into Bi-Han's character in this new game.
Bi-Han is similar to Frost in which they are against the old principles of the Lin Kuei even it the morals and intentions were good. In terms of Sektor, Bi-Han does have the plan of creating the Cyber Initiative as well. However, the difference is that unlike Sektor and Frost, Bi-Han actually has a regard for morals, order, peace, and balance in the world; he's not chaotic or morally corrupt like the other two. Plus, it's possible that in Bi-Han's ending for this game, he envisioned the Cyber Initiative having nothing to with sacrificing human lives and taking away their humanity; maybe he envisioned them just being 100% robots.
Although Bi-Han did try to accept Shang Tsung's offer in the story mode, he didn't exactly side with him; he just wanted to use Shang Tsung for the power he desires without letting him know; Bi-Han does not want to betray Earthrealm (It's implied in certain parts of the game). He still wants to defend Earthrealm, just not by the orders of Liu Kang or his father. Plus, Bi-Han knows that his father and Liu Kang had good morals, but he believed that they were not using them in the right way. Bi-Han felt uncomfortable only doing things by the orders of others, not having enough freedom as an individual and as a leader.
In previous timelines, Bi-Han became cold because he got pressured and abused by the Lin Kuei. It's possible that in this timeline, the father may have done something or more that left a huge impact on Bi-Han's life despite not having poor intentions. Eventually, Bi-Han grew disillusioned and embittered by the treatment his father gave him and lost concern for him, which could explain why he couldn't feel bad about letting him die. Plus, I think the reason why Kuai Liang and Smoke think Bi-Han is corrupt is because he's going against the ways Liu Kang and the father, but Bi-Han's more complicated than that. He just had different perspectives, but he still cared about morals and had no ill intent. Just because people have different opinions and point of views, it doesn't make them wrong.
Great work on this. Always nice to see this kind of kontent.
i appreciate you!
It's good to see a video that seeks to understand the character. Of all the characters in MK, in my opinion, Bi Han was the most realistic character in the midway era. He wasn't someone good, but he wasn't evil either, he was the typical Asian who kills the enemy in combat because of honor. But when he became noob saibot, everything that was negative about him, he simply took over everything, he became, together with Ermac, the most powerful ninja in MK in the first timeline. In the era of Netherealm, they wrote bi han as simply someone who was a purely evil idiot or who tends to the bad side, so much so that noob nowadays is simply evil, and the old Bi han would never betray his father or his brother while he was alive, he was the Like a GTA character, he listens to orders and doesn't question. I'm just sad that Netherealm modified Bi Han so much, that there are fans who really believe that Bi Han has Frost's personality when they see him in mk1 2023.
Exactly how I feel about the way Bi-Han has been portrayed it also brings up a problem with MK fans (& it seems the writers) using Noob as a referencing point as to how Bi-Han was like in life. Using the actions of a corrupted person as a representation of a character is something I have never understood, it’s like if I used revenant Liu Kang’s actions as a reason as to why fire god Liu Kang should be a bad guy.
Im glad that you touch up on bi-hans Loral on why he still takes non sense bad ass attitude and such i like bi-han just that he is power hungry that being under liu kangs rule is not enough for him and his clan hopefully he gets a redemption arc.
I honestly really like the idea of Sub-Zero being an asshole but with his own reasons instead of being evil "just because". I hope they don't ruin his character and instead give him some redemption, and recognition of him being somewhat right in his own way.
I'm crying for Rain's fate.
great video! you dissected every line on point
thankyou so much!
This is a really good video! It's great!
thankyou!!
@@karmatem No problem! :D
Just a small note: Kuai Liang is just two syllables. Kwhy lyang. Like how Lin Kuei is two syllables. Lin Kway. It sounds like you’re saying Kawaii Lee Yang to me and I’m like aweee kawaii. 🥰 Great video! 👏 It makes me want to replay the story mode now that the Switch version’s Invasion mode is finally out and I’ve beat the main path. I hope Bi-Han doesn’t go cyborg next patch. He’s so pretty. But I can see how his avarice could lead him to get stronger and stronger by any means necessary.
thankyou for letting me know! and same..i hope he doesn’t become cyber sub, i feel there’s so much they can do with him!
Definitely 3 syllables. You could argue that when said properly, the first syllable of Liang is so soft it’s barely noticeable, but L can’t link with Y phonetically without creating a syllable.
The way they wrote Bi-Han was when the game story completely died for me. I was already teetering with him constantly just projecting bitter entitlement, but the moment when he turns evil after one speech from Shang Tsung, just so we can have scorpion vs sub zero yet again, was also the moment I realized how little nuance NRS was capable of writing. Compare him to his few pre-death appearances in the midway timeline, and the level nuance presented vs his MK1 story is practically night and day.
The sad thing is, they could’ve actually played up an interesting gray morality storyline if Scorpion and Sub Zero clashed over tradition vs progress. Kuai Liang wants to push a cyber initiative in reference to his MK2 affinity for technology (obviously keeping their free will this time) while Bi Han wants to maintain the old ways. He’s stern, but ultimately compassionate, and wants to protect and help his brother, but fears they’re growing apart due to their viewpoints.
Kuai Liang would be a bit more brash and energetic, always enticed by the prospect of advancing tech, but willing to hear his older brother’s concerns.
But here’s the kicker: Kuai wouldn’t have any magic powers. Bi Han would be the only one with cryomancy and (harkening back to Kuai’s arc in Snow Blind) would see the powers as a burden and something he’s glad his brother doesn’t have to deal with. Kuai however wants these powers to better protect earthrealm, so his scorpion powers would be built around cyber tech (flame throwers, teleportation, a mechanical spear, etc.)
The two would ultimately clash when Scorpion convinces Sektor and Cyrax to cyber up, and split from each other, Kuai Liang forming the Tekunin while Bi Han holds the Lin Kuei, both protecting earthrealm and still caring for each other but forever divided by their conflicting ideals.
No matter how bitter the situation is right now, I still have high hope for Bi-han to redeem himself in the next game.
With How Much He Is Being Thrown at Him Right Now, I can Only Think of One Person Other than Kuai that will pull him Back to Goodness, Its Sareena
Johnny Announcer, "Bi Han's future bestie"
That would be quite interesting. Whereas the original timeline it was Bi-Han that showed Sarena compassion, it'll be the opposite. Though I wonder how that would work though.
@@Ballsexpunchertragically considering Noob Saibot is a must given how popular the character is
@@CRSB00, though there is a big Hanzo shaped gap in the roster
I think one interesting thing I want to point out is the possibility of how Bi-Han's childhood factors into all of this, because he probably was definitely put under a lot of pressure at a young age due to all the expectations on him. Being constantly pushed to your limits and having the expectation of success and ambition hammered into your brain at a young age will definitely not make a healthy child.
This might also factor into how Bi-Han treats Tomas -- in his eyes, Tomas was a kid that their father pitied and was therefore given the priviledge of joining the Lin Kuei. To him, Tomas was just lucky and never truly had to work to become Lin Kuei, despite it being anything but that case. Hence why Bi-Han always told Tomas that he will "never be Lin Kuei" because he was never born Lin Kuei.
And about the fight between Bi-Han and Kuai Liang, I do genuinely believe that Bi-Han never intended to kill Kuai, mainly maim him to teach him some sort of lesson. Every time Kuai gets knocked down, Bi-Han *waits* for him to get back up instead of striking him when he's caught off guard.
I genuinely hope we get a Bi-Han redemption arc in the next game, because he's honestly one of the most interesting characters in MK1 for me. Great video!
Bi Han in the previous timelines had morals, he was not a saint but he was not evil before Quan Chi took away his humanity and the only one who understood this character well was John Tobias, however Ed Boon seems to hate this character to such an extent. that in this timeline his personality changed to that of a literal sektor in this timeline it is a sektor with blue color and ice powers I hope Netherealm Studios gives this character a redemption although I doubt this
Bi-Han lording the Lin-Kuei bloodline over Tomas' head and his expectation of obedience to his authority make sense when you remember he's Chinese.
I'm interested to see what will happen with Hanzo in this timeline. Because they already reference him through dialogue. They clearly aren't just going to cut Hanzo out of this new timeline, that would be dumb. But you also have to wonder what will happen to the 2 brothers so that Hanzo is allowed to take up his role as Scorpion once again.
And he's in smoke and raidens ending
"I seek only to make us stronger.."
- MK1 Bi-Han
Perfect Bi Han video your analysis is spot on.
thankyou!
@@karmatem you are welcome !
New Bi-han: SHUT UP TOMAS YOUR ADOPTED!!
Og Bi-han: i reprogram you to be my servant.
You realise when he did that he was corrupted right?
Also OG Bi-Han is more: I just want to retire man.
24:43 There's one person w/o something covering their head, i wonder if their important?
Edit: it's probably the guy building the robots, who is referred to here as Sektor, but it looks like there's a new/different Sektor so idk, they also look like they have slightly different hair types
Coming back to the video after Khaos Reigns, man this guy predicted Noob Saibot almost a year ago.
I was lowkey vibing with him when he said he wanted to HELP lead Earthrealm, not take it from Liu Kang outright, he wanted his clan to be more than just guard dogs, I hope they delve more into Bi-Han like maybe their father was extra hard on him because he was the eldest sibling and the one to set an example and over the years he held some resentment that turned to hate which let to him leaving his father for dead, maybe after he becomes Noob Saibot or something we'll get some redemption
Agree that his statement that he wants HELP LEAD (not rule) feels more like that power is not what he desires, nor he is about to become a tyrant. But rather that he thinks that his clan is so great and skillful (and he is not wrong about it!) that they deserve to have a voice and be listened.
Liu Kang made a mistake because of knowledge previous timeline. He tried to give everybody nice life (he even did not give a bad one to those who wanted neutralize, just life which would kept them away from power which always turned them into tyrants and monsters). That made him a little blind to the fact that Bi-han to be just his guard dog without actually a way how to use his hard trained skills in combat and having challenges (as he said after a years of idleness we finally face combat....) would make him conflicted. Something like why I am just sitting on my ass and doing some testing sparring partner for farmers and actor who are about to be champions while I am better then them (the way that he is ordered to keep back not to hurt them) and I could be much better champion.
It does not make any sense from his point of view and make impression that Liu Kang is making them low and mediocre on purpose and he is the one who blocking their development and greatness. He does not know the huge problems which Liu Kang tried to avoid by it and that those farmers and actor actually are great as he is if given a proper training and they have a good heart as well - they will not use obtained power to usurp (which can not be said about Bi-han...and I am not telling he is bad person but well he is definitely not warmhearted)
what a nice video. you explained everything perfectly. really enjoyed it
thankyou!
No matter what anyone says I don’t think his characterization makes sense. He was raised to be a protector of earth realm but all of a sudden he not only abandons earth realm but sides with people & other species who literally want to conquer it? Bi-Han keeps saying his brothers lack vision but its Bi-Han who can’t see that his plan is the one who lacks vision. He’s turning his back on everything he’s ever known and trusting the word of some of the most untrustworthy people in all the realms. It’s forced and not how people think or act.
This is exactly what I think. I feel like the idea of hkm being frustrated with how the Lin Kuei are treated is a good idea but the execution is terrible. He has been raised to look after Earthrealm & has become arrogant because of his accomplishments. Surely, it would make more sense that the reason he turns on Liu Kang is because he believes that he can be a far better protector than Liu Kang. Of course, he would fundamentally misunderstand what being a protector is & see it as leading but having him have that arc is far better than ‘power gives me a boner’.
I am in awe. Thank you for this video. Earned this sub.
thankyou! i greatly appreciate it.
@@karmatem after listening to his interactions/intros with the rest of the kast, I am fully convinced he still holds his brothers in his heart. Yes, a heart, a frozen one at that.
He even says to Kuai "you could have ruled by my side!", further cementing the fact at least, his brother is still there within his heart. Albeit frozen, it might be literally the reason why he wont budge. Theres even an interaction where Bi Han mentions his mother to Sindel (I think, not at home) telling her that if she saw him today in his current state and struggle, that she would applaud him.
A frozen heart, exactly like Sub Zero's ending in MK11, Kuai redeemed his brother by "unfrozing" it. Let us hope that whatever comes out of this in the next years to come, do justice to his character. Either by redemption or damnation.
Cant Liu Kang like, show Bi-Han he was Noob Saibot in the other timeline? I think that if he does, Bi-Han would rethink his actions and would fight for earthrealm again. I really do hope he has some interactions with Sareena in the DLC too
If the leaks are true he's going to get more then just showen he was Noob....
what are the leaks? @@byronburgess8061
@@byronburgess8061who would be sub zero ?
@@b1tchimf1awless77 according to the leaks nobody I guess he's going to get turned back into him at some point
Hopefully we got DLC for Bi-han backstory
Well my head canon was Shang Tsun laced his shit with Demon Fent to turn him evil during the Lin Kuei blunt rotaton but this is cool too ig
I loved bi han ever since i saw him in mk9 and im glad they keep making him hotter each game
and people just want him to die by the hands of scorpion all over again so we can just have noob saibot back not thinking about the possibilities of redemption bi-han can go through
He wanted power and was tired of peoole (Liu Kang & his father) "holding back" the Lin Kuei, so he was willing to betray his family and side with anyone that would allow him to free them into being the strongest force they can be
There, that's all you need to understand Bihan
Bi han try so hard to guide tomas and kuai liang to loyal his new belief but once tomas and kuai liang reject his belief he turned against them seeing them as an temporary enemy and still wanting them to join the Lin kuei in his supremacy
i saw bi han as someone that had the lin kuei being hyped up to him since he was a child considering he was a would-be a grandmaster so him thinking so highly of his clan wasnt that strange and felt in character with this version of the character, as for the ego inhereting a title that was very important to him would make him think of himself highly and putting him in a position where he learns to idolize his newfound position and power without knowing what he should use it for clouding his judgement heavily, so im kinda surprised when i hear people his decisions dont make sense
Bi-Han's character is compelling in MK1. The most badass Sub Zero ever.
This is a spectacular video
thankyou!!
U come in clutch with the vids karma keep it up👌💯💯
❤️❤️
This video is a well crafted, thoughtful analysis, and by extension, story, of what Bi-Han's internal locus, motivation might be. Which is more than what I can say about nrs's effort in that regard.
Mk1 is a very poorly written story, with no real sense of the characters, least of all Bi-Han. The writer(s?), from the story presented, doesn't have a strong grasp on who any of these characters are, even in the context of a "new timeline". The power structures, character interactions, motivations, are senseless and careless.
It seemed like everything was clumsily pushing the characters to a place that's "good enough".
Someone else made this theory
Bi Han as the elder son was pushed way to hard by his father, which made him have this perspective about superiority in order to please his father, but because of this he sees the Lin kuei as Mediocre under his fathers leadership, which led him to kill him
Bi-Han's my fave Sz ever since the 90s and always will be.
W
Basically this story mode is before the subzero mythologies game since is the new era of lui kang plus in one intro wit bi han and lui kang he says you will not take the scroll pr element off the wimd of elements temple referring to subzero mythologies second level when he goes on the wind temple to reveive the element or scroll off fujin
Easily my favorite character
Considering bi-Han uses ice powers and calling himself ‘Sub-zero’ his quite hot-headed and explosive, while kuai liang is more cold thinking and ‘chill’
As cruel bi Han is at least he cares about the lin kuei and only wants what’s best for them
I've seen some "youtuber sona's" that dont match the voice before but this is next level
I always wanted to learn more about bi Han ever since I played Armageddon.
I don’t think he’ll become noob.
In fact I can see his father being noob and haunting the brothers, this driving them together