I couldn't disagree more. I think MK3 is when the series started going downhill. There's not even all that much I like about it. I think it had some of the dumbest levels (while some others were cool), some of the lamest characters, some of the worst fatalities, and I'm not a big fan of the dial-a-combos. Also, the body explosions are embarrassingly bad with dudes exploding into like 7 skulls, 3 rib cages, 12 arms, etc. Also, I think Motaro is probably the worst sub-boss in all of MK, and while I do like Shao Kahn, I didn't enjoy seeing him return in MK3 so much. Maybe I'm wrong here, but I think he was pretty much exactly the same in both MK2 and MK3, and that just always seemed lazy to me. I don't mind the run button, though I do hate when people just repeatedly run up to you and throw you over and over.

I'd prefer to see MK return to its darker and more mysterious roots, like MK1 and MK2. Gameplay wise, I think I'd like to see it more like MK:DA. I really loved that one.

Nah. Having the run button is completely pointless. If I remember correctly, MK vs. DC had a forward dash sort of thing, which is a step in the right direction. I don't think the gameplay was just on point either. I mean, you have the chain combos and super speed and all that.

Good, solid, balanced gameplay is essential for MK. It needs to be a constant from now on. The mechanics need to have all of the essentials and for them to be done right. So that means not having a stiff, protruding arm motion as a parry animation. Not only is that stiff and jerky, it's just plain wrong. Have the wake up/ground game, throw escapes, counter hit, string combos, etc. They can put their MK touch to it as long as they have the essentials and have them done right.

Aside from the gameplay, the overall presentation with the ambiance should have and retain a dark, mysterious nature. Have that sense of mythological influences, primarily Asian-themed (i.e. Chinese, Japanese).

Of course, there are the character and story elements, but not everyone cares for the story. At least make the characters appealing and fitting to Mortal Kombat. For example, I'm a fan of the Tekken series, but I don't really care about its story. However, I do like several of the characters (e.g. Baek Doo San), not because of his story, but because he has a cool look, fun gameplay, and just an overall appeal to him.

So yeah, that's basically it.

i also have to disagree about the run button. if anybody here has played Guilty Gear or Blaz Blue, then you would also agree with me about the dash.
A simple double tap on the forward/backward button and you clear half the screen in a dash, which works both on ground and in the air. If MK had this feature, the battles would be intense!!! Ed Boon and team, listen up!! That would greatly improve the pace of the game.