Tekken 8 is a 3D fighting video game developed by Bandai Namco Studios and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Released worldwide on January 25, 2024, it continues the long-running Tekken saga, advancing the generational conflict between Jin Kazama and Kazuya Mishima. Built with Unreal Engine 5, it showcases next-generation visuals and high-intensity, aggressive combat mechanics.
Key facts
- Developer: Bandai Namco Studios
- Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Release date: January 25, 2024
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC
- Initial roster: 32 playable characters
Story and setting
The narrative resumes after the events of Tekken 7, depicting a world ravaged by war between Kazuya Mishima’s G Corporation and his son Jin Kazama. The game’s cinematic story mode merges high-fidelity cutscenes with interactive battles, emphasizing Jin’s struggle to end his father’s reign of destruction and reconcile his demonic heritage.
Gameplay and new mechanics
Tekken 8 introduces the Heat System, a mechanic that rewards offensive play by unlocking character-specific abilities and movement options. Returning staples like Rage Arts and familiar combo systems coexist with the accessible Special Style control scheme, allowing single-button execution of signature attacks. Destructible stages and dynamic camera work enhance the impact of each encounter.
Modes and features
Content ranges from the single-player Arcade Quest, where players create avatars to learn fundamentals, to online ranked matches within the interactive Tekken Fight Lounge hub. The game also includes AI-driven “Ghost” battles that learn and replicate players’ habits, extensive character and avatar customization, and the return of the Tekken Ball mini-game.
