Shang Tsung is infamous for his sadism and greed. Even before joining Shao Kahn, he was a heartless sorcerer who gleefully took advantage of his punishment after the Elder Gods cursed him to die unless he consumed the souls of those he defeats or souls he decided to consume for fun. Using his polite façade as a means of tricking opponents, Shang shows he is willing to do anything that will help him gain more power. He can also be highly condescending, often looking down on his opponents.