As usual, Tekken 8 retains the four-button system of controls, with each button controlling a different limb for two kicks and two punches, with throws done by pressing buttons together. It may sound daunting for those unfamiliar, especially when taking the 3D plane and sidestepping into account, but Tekken 8 really goes above in getting players accustomed to its controls and learning how to play. This is both through tutorials and training modes and through giving players a chance to figure things out and come up with tactics.
Tekken 8 has another trick to get players accustomed to its mechanics and that is Arcade Quest, a different type of tutorial mode that calls to mind Street Fighter 6’s world tour mode. In this interactive learning mode, you will create an avatar and travel to various coin-op palaces to fight non-player characters who will give training in key moves and combos, hints and also encouragement to keep you going. The more bouts you win and challenges you complete, the more you will gain new items and rewards, which further incentivize you to keep playing and learning.
As with every Tekken game, Tekken 8 gives each character their own fighting style that makes them stand out, but the game goes a bit further this time. Tekken 8 introduces a new feature called the Heat system, which when activated, will supercharge your character for a bit and allow you to do more powerful moves than, and also makes your regular moves do more damage to the opponent and even ignore blocking. It is not something that can be abused though, as it is a once per fight use, much like the Fatal Blow in Mortal Kombat 1, so you must use it carefully.
This can be also compared to the Rage system from previous games, but can be used right away to start the match, giving the mechanic a much more strategic use. Speaking of Rage, Rage Arts return and can utterly change a match in seconds if used right. Of course, each character’s Rage Art is a different move and that helps to set the characters apart.
When it comes to the roster, Tekken 8 shines bright with both returning and new characters and all have that Tekken charm. The characters are all diverse and the unique moves of each give the game a sense of diversity in terms of gameplay that other fighting games cannot match as well. Of course, it goes without saying that the distinct characters stand out well, and the story manages to give the game an over the top feeling.
This is a game you want to just keep playing and thankfully that is where the online multiplayer mode comes in. This mode lets you take your avatar into a hub world called the Fight Lounge to meet and fight other players around the world. You can chat in this mode, customize your character or play some minigames as well. And yes, Tekken Ball is as great as ever, with Bandai Namco stepping up the minigame fun here to give players an experience that reminds us of the arcade days. The online gameplay works well here and the overall social interactions feel more refined than in previous entries.
Tekken has always been a series that pushed fighting games forward in different ways. From refining 3D fighters, to introducing new mechanics, Tekken has been about innovation and change. Tekken 8’s change is shifting from a focus on its hardcore players to bringing in new fans while not alienating the older fans.
This is always something that is a lot easier said than done, but Tekken 8 has pulled this off admirably well. The combat feels as refined and tight as ever, but the game goes out of its way to make itself understandable. Bandai Namco has also been very open in terms of communication with players, which has resulted in a massive growth in the fanbase.
Tekken 8 feels like the ideal Tekken game and I would even go so far as to say, the ideal 3D fighter. It is balanced well, yet every character feels different and fully realized, and you do not ever feel too overwhelmed. The visuals and music are absolutely stunning here and stand out as some of Bandai Namco’s best work in recent years in terms of any game the company has published.
If you like fighting games or are interested in trying them, then Tekken 8 is the ideal game for you. Be ready for a fight because Tekken 8 will give you the experience in the best way possible. May the best fighter win.
Disclaimer: A review key was provided
