One of the most impressive facets of Mortal Kombat 1 is how it reshaped the destinies and overall motivation of many villains. Baraka wanted a home for him and those inflicted with the Tarkatan plague, while Reptile was a former slave who just wanted to be accepted. Even General Shao is somewhat sympathetic, wanting to overthrow Queen Sindel to genuinely protect Outworld.
Source:https://www.cbr.com/mk1-reiko-ending-info/