Shang Tsung is the sorcerer and tournament host in the original Mortal Kombat game.
In the first Mortal Kombat, Shang Tsung oversees the tournament on behalf of Outworld. He is also the game’s final opponent. His defining supernatural ability is the power to transform into other fighters, allowing him to imitate their appearances and special moves during battle.
Shang Tsung’s backstory developed substantially after the original release. Later games portray him as an ancient sorcerer who steals souls to maintain or increase his power. He is frequently associated with Shao Kahn, although his alliances and ambitions change across different storylines and timelines.
The character appeared in the 1995 film, where Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa played him. Shang Tsung is sometimes confused with Shao Kahn because both are major Outworld villains. They have different roles: Shang Tsung is a sorcerer and shapeshifter, while Shao Kahn is the emperor who rules Outworld in the classic continuity.