Although "Mortal Kombat 3" was commercially successful, many disliked the inclusion of arguably less-appealing new characters (especially Stryker) in place of established stalwarts such as Scorpion and Kitana. The new combo system was also often criticized, as were, to a lesser degree, the run mechanics and some finishing moves. According to "PC Gamer" in 1998, "While "Mortal Kombat 2" managed to improve upon the fast-paced, gore-galore formula of the original, the third incarnation didn't fare nearly as well. "MK3" suffered from monkeywrenched gameplay, needlessly stupid finishing moves like 'Animalities,' and unbearably campy character designs." "Next Generation" reviewed the arcade version of the game, and stated that "in an industry which depends on innovation to keep it fresh and interesting, "MK III" just doesn't deliver." A "Retro Gamer" article on the history of the series stated in 2007: "Although many hardcore fans will decree Midway's third "Mortal Kombat" game to be the best in the series, just as many felt it was beginning of the end for the still massively popular franchise ... While Midway had been constantly adding subtle gameplay tweaks to its franchise since the release of "Mortal Kombat", its once exciting series was suddenly looking rather tired."