Impressions - Tekken 8

 Available on PS5, XBox Series S|X, & PC

Thoughts on the Story & Gameplay

Tekken is back if you have played through the previous entry's story this picks up in the aftermath of that with Kazuya in control of G Corporation. If you haven't had the chance Tekken 7's story is very good in my opinion and worth at least reading about it or watching vids on YouTube to get yourself caught up. The opening of 8 begins with Jin Kazama forcing a fight with his dear ol dad Kazuya. Needless to say Kazuya gets the upper hand and announces the next Iron Fist Tournament and that's where the game begins. For those that do not know this is a fighting game the vein of Street Fighter, Dead or Alive, and Virtua Fighter. In the past the story wasn't the focus but in the last 10 years or fighting games have gotten story modes most of which being very good for the crazy worlds they inhabit. This game has a pretty good sized roster of characters open. Some returning favorites and some new faces as well. The team did a good job of making the game accessible to casuals as well as providing challenge for those that delve into the professional side of the fighting genre. I like the Arcade Mode that is setup, you will create an avatar and go through a lounge type setup where you learn how to play the game all on your way to becoming the best in the Arcade scene. Its a pretty cool way to earn in game currency and learn the game at the same time. 

Thoughts on the Good

In my opinion, this game shines in the gameplay department. I like the fact that it is easy to pick up challenging to master. If you are in it for the story you can enjoy that, if you just want to play with your friends there's that option for you too or if you prefer the pro route there is that option as well. There is something for everybody. There are also multiple modes and a good mix of characters that will keep players busy for a while as well as future DLC. I have the game on my XBox Series X and it runs great. I haven't had any issues as far as crashes and slowdowns during my play sessions. I also haven't noticed any screen tearing or noticable frame drops.  While I don't really care for online play I did check it out and its pretty smooth, at least in my experience. 

Thoughts on the Bad

Being honest I do not have anything to even nitpick about. Can that change? Possibly but at this time I don't have anything and I am looking forward to the DLC. I know the first character is Eddy Gordo, looking forward to seeing who else they add. 

For Parents

The game is rated T for Teen. Its your standard fighting game. While it doesn't have fatalities like Mortal Kombat, it does have Rage Art moves which can best be compared to Final Smashes from Smash Bros. it gives a great visual but nothing gory. There are a lot of modes and a lot of characters which will keep people busy for a while especially if you are thinking of getting this game as a gift. 

Overall Thoughts/Is the Game FUN?

Is this Tekken 8 fun? In my humble opinion, MOST DEFINITELY. There is a lot of variety here. The story is good and picks up right where 7's story left off. There are plenty of modes for people to learn the gameplay mechanics even if they don't want to go the pro route if they just want to learn one character, there is something there for everybody. Have you played Tekken 8? Are you enjoying it? Who do you main? Leave a comment and let's talk about it. As always thanks for reading and I look forward to hearing from you.

GamePlay