I'm with those that prefer Dark Rayden. He's not really "dark" and he's definitely not "brooding." To me, brooding implies a lack of action, a character that is tortured by their own thoughts. Well, Rayden is obviously taking on a more active role in the story and I couldn't be happier. I see the new Rayden as the type who protects Earth at all costs, even if it means losing a few unfortunate souls in the process (aka Shujinko). He will protect Earth even if that entails protecting it from itself. I like that idea because it opens up a whole list of possibilities for the Rayden character. He becomes morally ambiguous or "dark" as some people have put it. But I like the idea of him going over the edge, of possibly losing his mission in the process. Will he join a different side? Will the Elder Gods punish him? Who will side with him, knowing now what he's all about?

I also agree with people like Chrome and XaihouDun84, who look the new Rayden as somewhat a return to the classic Thunder God from MK1 and MK2. I never really liked Rayden as just the "guide" type. It was too one dimentional for one of my favorite characters. Besides, at the very least, this new persona adds a level of depth to the character, and considering some of the crappier, more recent plots (order versus chaos springs to mind) I'm all for it.

I always thought it was; "I'll hit you in the bodyyyyyy!!!!"

MK1: Take of your undiessss!!!!!
MK2: I like that sonnggggg!!!!!!
MK4: Bring you backk!!!!!

What the hell does he say!!!
But then what does Sub-Zero say in any of the latest installments?

In Deception it sounded like; "Who Gan Gan Geerie!"

We have to remember of cause that there are several catchphrases for the same move.

Nah, it's more like "I like big titties!"

yeah i say no dark raiden i want him excaktly like in mk 2 light and blue raiden i agree with you no dark raiden!

I wonder what the hell its goin to sound like in MK:7