Bi-Han is one of the most iconic and mysterious characters in the Mortal Kombat universe. Known originally as the first Sub-Zero, his story is deeply tied to the origins of the series and the complex relationships between the Lin Kuei, Scorpion, and other major figures. Unlike many characters whose roles are clear-cut, Bi-Han straddles the line between hero and villain. His journey from Sub-Zero to Noob Saibot is one of the most tragic and transformative arcs in the franchise. With a legacy of cold brutality and vengeance, Bi-Han’s presence continues to shape the Mortal Kombat lore in powerful ways.
The Origin of Bi-Han
Lin Kuei Assassin
Bi-Han was born into the Lin Kuei, an ancient clan of assassins known for their deadly skills and ruthless discipline. From a young age, he and his younger brother, Kuai Liang, were trained to be elite warriors. Bi-Han excelled, becoming one of the Lin Kuei’s most feared and respected members. As part of his training, he mastered the Cryomancer powers, allowing him to control and manipulate ice in combat, which led to his code name: Sub-Zero.
Sub-Zero in the First Mortal Kombat
In the original Mortal Kombat tournament, Bi-Han was sent by the Lin Kuei to retrieve a mystical amulet for the sorcerer Quan Chi. However, his mission was not just about the artifact it was also deeply personal. Bi-Han had a long-standing feud with Hanzo Hasashi, better known as Scorpion, whose death at the hands of Bi-Han set the stage for a bitter rivalry that would span multiple lifetimes.
The Death of Sub-Zero
Scorpion’s Revenge
After being killed by Bi-Han, Scorpion was resurrected by the Netherrealm and transformed into a wraith. Seeking revenge, Scorpion returned during the first Mortal Kombat tournament and confronted Bi-Han. In a brutal battle, Scorpion ultimately killed Bi-Han, setting the stage for a dramatic shift in the Mortal Kombat storyline.
The Rise of Noob Saibot
Bi-Han’s story didn’t end with his death. Instead, his soul was corrupted and reborn in the Netherrealm as Noob Saibot a shadowy, vengeful being with no trace of his former humanity. This transformation marked his shift from Sub-Zero, a cold but disciplined warrior, to a ruthless and dark force bent on destruction. The name ‘Noob Saibot’ is derived from the reversed surnames of Mortal Kombat’s co-creators, Tobias and Boon.
Noob Saibot’s Role in Mortal Kombat
The Shadow Assassin
As Noob Saibot, Bi-Han became one of the Netherrealm’s most powerful enforcers. His abilities evolved from ice manipulation to shadow-based attacks, and he often worked alone or with his spectral double, known as the Shadow Clone. His motivations also shifted no longer loyal to the Lin Kuei or any higher cause, Noob Saibot was driven by hatred, envy, and a desire to eliminate his brother, Kuai Liang, who had taken up the mantle of Sub-Zero.
Allegiances and Betrayals
Noob Saibot aligned himself with dark forces like Quan Chi and Shinnok, yet he remained fiercely independent. Throughout the Mortal Kombat series, he was known for betrayal, cunning plans, and manipulative strategies. His story became less about honor and more about personal ambition and revenge, a stark contrast to his earlier life as Sub-Zero.
Bi-Han vs. Kuai Liang
The Brothers’ Legacy
After Bi-Han’s death, Kuai Liang adopted the Sub-Zero name to honor his brother and continue the fight against evil. However, when he discovered that Bi-Han had become Noob Saibot, their relationship took a tragic turn. The new Sub-Zero sought redemption and justice, while Noob Saibot became a symbol of what happens when hatred consumes a warrior’s soul.
Climactic Confrontations
Several Mortal Kombat games depict intense confrontations between the two brothers. These battles are not just physical but emotional, highlighting the pain of family torn apart by fate and vengeance. Though Kuai Liang tries to reach his brother, Bi-Han remains lost to the darkness, refusing to return to the man he once was.
Abilities and Fighting Style
Sub-Zero’s Ice Powers
As Sub-Zero, Bi-Han was known for his ice-based attacks, including:
- Ice Blast Freezing enemies from a distance
- Slide A quick move to knock down opponents
- Ice Clone Creating a frozen version of himself to trap enemies
These moves made him a defensive and strategic fighter, capable of controlling the pace of a match.
Noob Saibot’s Shadow Powers
As Noob Saibot, Bi-Han’s abilities became darker and more aggressive. Key moves include:
- Shadow Slide Attacking from the shadows for surprise strikes
- Teleport Slam Using darkness to travel and grab enemies
- Shadow Clone Attacks Fighting alongside his clone for brutal combos
This change in style reflected his transformation from a controlled assassin to a vengeful wraith.
Bi-Han in Mortal Kombat Lore
Symbol of Duality
Bi-Han’s story is one of duality light versus dark, duty versus revenge, family versus betrayal. As both Sub-Zero and Noob Saibot, he represents the consequences of choices and the paths that power can take. His character arc adds depth to the Mortal Kombat narrative, showing how even the strongest warriors can fall from grace.
Influence on Other Characters
Bi-Han’s transformation and rivalry with Scorpion and his brother have affected many characters in the Mortal Kombat universe. His death helped shape Scorpion’s journey, his rebirth impacted the Netherrealm’s power structure, and his actions continue to challenge Sub-Zero’s quest for peace and order within the Lin Kuei.
Legacy and Impact
Fan Favorite
Despite or perhaps because of his dark path, Bi-Han remains a fan favorite. His evolution from Sub-Zero to Noob Saibot is one of the most memorable in fighting game history. Players appreciate the complexity of his character, the uniqueness of his powers, and the emotional weight behind his storyline.
Appearances in Media
Bi-Han has appeared in numerous Mortal Kombat games, comics, and animated features. In the 2021 Mortal Kombat movie, he plays a central role as the main antagonist, bringing his cold demeanor and brutal strength to the big screen. This portrayal helped introduce his legacy to a broader audience.
Bi-Han’s journey from Sub-Zero to Noob Saibot is more than just a change in name or appearance it’s a story of transformation, loss, and the corrupting nature of vengeance. As one of Mortal Kombat’s oldest characters, he has seen both glory and disgrace, light and shadow. Whether as a loyal Lin Kuei assassin or a vengeful revenant, Bi-Han’s presence continues to chill the hearts of players and shape the destiny of the Mortal Kombat universe.