With Tekken 8, Bandai Namco has delivered another powerhouse in the fighting game genre that not only meets but surpasses the high expectations set by Tekken 7, which delighted players for many years thanks to its season passes. The game, available on the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X and PC, builds on the success of its predecessor while improving upon it and laying down a solid foundation for what is to come. Here’s our look at the console version.
Tekken 8 introduces a new chapter in the legendary fighting game franchise almost seven years after the previous game – showing how much lasting appeal these games have. The story for Tekken 8 dives deeper into the Mishima and Kazama bloodlines, and The Dark Awakens, which is the game’s story mode, is one of the series’ best campaigns thus far. Featuring storytelling that is strongly character-driven with a narrative that features plenty of emotional charge, it focuses on Jin Kazama’s growth and redemption. It also introduces three newly added characters, Reina, Victor, and Azucena, bringing a fresh perspective to the narrative and the world of Tekken as a whole for longtime fans. The campaign, while short, stands out as a treat for fans and contributes to making Tekken 8 one of the best entries in the series for single player fans.
The core gameplay mechanics of Tekken 8 have evolved significantly with the introduction of the Heat system. By using this system, Tekken 8 embraces a more aggressive, offensive and fast-paced approach to fighting when compared to its predecessor, Tekken 7. In essence, the Heat meter allows for dashes and powerful attacks, transforming matches into intense, high-energy showdowns rather than the cat and mouse dynamics you’d sometimes see in earlier games. We were worried that this would clash with what Tekken fans might like, but the Heat system’s strategic use and the inclusion of Heat Dashes and Smashes add a refreshing change of pace and gives room for balance between various playstyles. The game strikes a balance between accessibility for newcomers and depth for seasoned players, making it a standout title in the fighting game landscape where the old tactics can still work, but will need to face new tactics and tricks.
Tekken 8 maintains the responsive and demanding control scheme the series is known for, so veterans will be able to jump right in. And while the traditional controls offer this familiar experience, the game also introduces Special Style controls, which are closer to Street Fighter 6’s controls – making it easy to players to jump from that game into this one. This feature especially caters to newcomers, allowing them to execute key moves and combos with simplified inputs. The option to toggle between traditional and Special Style controls, even during a fight, enhances accessibility, making it easier for players to grasp the intricacies of Tekken’s gameplay and enjoy the game while they’re learning.
Powered by Unreal Engine 5, Tekken 8 showcases a visual spectacle that sets a new standard for the franchise – the choice to leave the previous console generation behind pays off here. The redesigned character models, detailed environments, and destructible stages highlight the capabilities of the new-generation hardware, and breathes new life in long-familiar faces. The game’s 32 characters, each with very lifelike features, benefit from the advanced graphics, making it a feast for the eyes, while the introduction of the Heat system and its cinematic effects further enhances the overall visual experience. If you enjoyed how Injustice 2 handled its cinematic style, you’ll like this change as well.
The soundtrack, which also features a playlist of music from previous Tekken titles, adds a nostalgic touch. It’s fully customizable, so you can create a unique and personalized atmosphere when you’re playing, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the fights if music’s an important part of it for you.
In conclusion, Tekken 8 stands out as a modern fighting game masterpiece. It successfully combines a robust single-player experience, a well-executed narrative, and engaging gameplay mechanics – though if we’re nitpicking we would have loved to see more single player game modes beyond the story and a limited arcade experience. With its stunning visuals and diverse and balanced roster, Tekken 8 proves to be a worthy successor that sets a new standard. Whether you’re a seasoned Tekken veteran or a newcomer, this installment offers an exhilarating and satisfying fighting game experience, and with a foundation this strong it’s only a question of how many season passes we’ll be getting and enjoying this time around. Fighting fans are in for a good couple of years.
Score: 9.2/10
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