Kombat Kodes are special code combination inputs first introduced in Mortal Kombat 3 and discontinued after Mortal Kombat Gold, returning in Mortal Kombat (2011). These codes have to be entered at the Versus screen within a limited amount of time before the match starts. They come in the form of six digit codes with ten unique symbols each representing a numerical value, and the kodes require three inputs from each player. If a kode is entered successfully, a message will be displayed at the beginning of the round to notify the effect. Kombat Kodes have varying effects, primarily in gameplay, which range from health handicaps to secret character battles amongst many.