Tekken 8, the latest entrant in the renowned Tekken series, weaves together the threads of tradition and innovation, presenting a fighting game experience that pays homage to its roots while embracing subtle evolutionary changes. With a legacy spanning three decades, Tekken 8 sets out to deliver a solid gaming experience, albeit with a few nuanced tweaks that aim to enhance rather than overhaul the familiar formula.
“The Dark Awakens,” Tekken 8’s narrative centrepiece, unfolds six months after its predecessor. The story revolves around the final confrontation between Kazuya Mishima and his son, Jin Kazama. The Mishima saga, synonymous with familial chaos and revenge, gains emotional layers with the return of Jun Kazama. In case you can’t follow what’s going on, like me, the game helpfully comes with a recap of all previous Tekken titles so you can dive into the story. The narrative deftly explores the intricate threads of the Mishima family, revealing a blood feud of epic proportions.
In the storytelling department, Tekken 8 takes measured steps, not relying on excessive theatrics but rather building on established lore to create a narrative tapestry that engages both newcomers and longtime fans.
One of Tekken 8’s defining characteristics is its commitment to the 3D fighting arena. As someone who’s fighting game experience was previously limited to mostly Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter, the 3D fighting arena certainly adds a new strategic layer to combat. The presence of a Z-axis allows characters to execute side steps, which definitely spices things up, especially when playing against other players.
Tekken 8 retains its core combat mechanics, emphasising movement, spacing, and punishing strategies. What sets this instalment apart are the subtle innovations introduced, namely recoverable health and the Heat System. Recoverable health marks a significant departure from Tekken’s norm, demanding an offensive mindset to reclaim lost life. The Heat System complements this, enhancing offensive capabilities and introducing a nuanced layer to battles.
Tekken 8’s gameplay encourages players to engage in close combat. In contrast to the measured pace of Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8 opts for a more direct and swift approach. This deviation is complemented by the inclusion of new control schemes, making the game accessible to both seasoned veterans and newcomers without sacrificing the strategic depth that defines Tekken.
You can’t afford to back down, but you also can’t afford to mess up because all it takes is a single mistake. This forces you to adapt quickly and think on your feet to keep the aggression going. The feeling of utterly dominating an opponent isn’t quite as satisfying in any other fighting game.
The graphics in Tekken 8 are the best in the series so far, which shouldn’t come as a surprise. Characters are brought to life with enhanced detail, creating a visual spectacle that elevates each battle within the Iron Fist Tournament. The attention to aesthetics serves not just as a backdrop but as an integral part of the gaming experience, capturing the intensity and beauty of each clash. Everything feels flashy and impactful as it should, there’s plenty of oomph behind everything.
Boasting a roster of 32 characters and a variety of modes, Tekken 8 certainly has a lot to offer. Character diversity is commendable, and unique, with each character offering a different experience. However, once you’re done with the story, there really isn’t much reason to do anything else other than take the battle online to play couch co-op with friends.
Tekken 8 offers a satisfying experience with potential for growth, particularly in expanding and refining its offline modes to cater to diverse player preferences.
Tekken 8 stands as a competent addition to the series, marking an evolutionary step forward rather than a revolutionary leap. The game maintains the essence of Tekken while subtly introducing changes that enhance the overall experience. Battles in Tekken 8 evoke a palpable sense of high stakes, providing a solid and enjoyable fighting game experience.
As Tekken 8 forges ahead, it does so with a measured approach, acknowledging its storied past and embracing the need for calculated evolution. It’s not a game that relies on excessive superlatives; instead, it positions itself as a balanced and enjoyable fighting game, offering a nuanced blend of familiarity and novelty. Tekken 8, with its subtle innovations and steadfast adherence to its roots, crafts a gaming experience that resonates with the series’ dedicated fanbase while inviting newcomers into the storied world of the Iron Fist Tournament.
