Reasons why i think Raiden from nrs timeline(mk9,mkx,mk11) is not to blame for everything that went wrong. I believe his actions are a result from words of og timeline Raiden and his impression of such limited information. So i ll go over main reasons why and explain my opinion.
1. Poor choice of words by og Raiden.
Previous Raiden clearly didn't try to properly explain his intentions and give anything specific to follow to avoid Armageddon ending. If new Raiden received proper information he would be far more smart and sure of what results he needs and what actions must be taken by him and other kombatants.
2. Wrong time to send in message by previous Raiden.
Sending message about such far from mk1 event in time of 10th tournament is too hopeful and basically useless. Past Raiden wouldn't properly get it and we see how such overstated understanding of time by og Raiden led to new one suffering and dooming others. Sending information to mk2 or mk3 would be much more helpful in stopping Armageddon.
3. Complete uselessness of most kombatants in this situation.
They all heavily relied on Raidens awareness and ability to interpret the visions. Even in mkx everyone seems to tease and taunt Raiden about something he had no control over just because they all weren't able to affect anything or change their lives without pep talk. Blaming Raidens abilities when he can't control time as it is clearly shows how delusional a lot of kombatants are when it comes to understanding Raidens burden and job.
4. Hypocrisy from Lui Kang on the issue.
As we witnessed in mk1, he while creating the timeline and having FULL CONTROL over it at least for a while, still fucked up a lot and couldn't avoid certain destinies. Raiden could change seemingly unchangeable events and actually tried to face and fix his mistakes. Lui,on the other hand, didn't face any judgement for specifically his mistakes as he's created everything. And when someone tries to doubt him,Lui has "it was interference of other Shang Tsung" cope out. Raiden didn't use any and was willing to give up power when it was needed to face his mistakes. So Lui in new era shading previous Raiden is extremely selfish and ungrateful imo.
5. Dark Raiden being seen as evil or something.
I m going to say it. He's absolutely not evil nor should he ever been seen as villain. He's just op pissed off Raiden. Treating him as if he's some kind of threat is big mistake and oversimplification on NRS end. He could have a potential to be very interesting kharacter development from simple teaching and protecting figure of Raiden into him being kinda a dick to everyone who isn't on his side. Dark Raiden is very much wasted kharacter concert which i really upset about not seeing more as a big Raiden fan.
Overall,i firmly believe that Raiden was a better leader overall even though he made mistakes. Unlike Lui he couldn't avoid responsibility and was willing to do so when called out.
It's not me saying Lui doesn't deserve his flowers as leader and creator and saviour,bc he does. But rather criticizing hypocrisy of approach towards same situations when it comes to Raiden.
I m opened to dialogue and discussion about the topic. So if you have anything to add you are welcome to.
prguitarman
gracieabrams
vaporwave
origamiaround
dailybridgerton
gummygunk
