Xbox Series X PS5

Tekken 8

Fighting

Time to beat: about 4.3 hours

Overview

Tekken 8 (Japanese: 鉄拳8) is a 2024 fighting game developed by Bandai Namco Studios and Arika and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. It is the eighth main installment (and tenth overall entry) in the Tekken series and the first one to debut on home systems instead of arcades. Game tests were held starting in July 2023 before the game was released for the PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S on January 26, 2024.

The base game's story mode, titled The Dark Awakens, takes place six months after the events of its predecessor and focuses on the final confrontation between main protagonist Jin Kazama and main antagonist Kazuya Mishima, as well as the introduction of late Heihachi Mishima's daughter, Reina. Jin's mother Jun Kazama also appears alive in her first canon appearance since Tekken 2. Meanwhile, an additional story mode titled Unforgettable Echoes focuses on Lidia Sobieska, Eddy Gordo, and Yoshimitsu on uncovering the Mishima Clan's ancient history, as well as the resurrection of Heihachi himself after his defeat against Kazuya.

Focusing on more aggressive tones, Tekken 8 was developed using Unreal Engine 5, and it features upgraded fighting elements and systems from its predecessor. Tekken 8 also introduces brand-new mechanics, such as the "Heat" system and "Tornado" hits. Arcade Quest was another addition to their online mode, which includes tournaments, arcade features, customizable avatars, and specialized currency that is featured throughout the game. Upon its release, Tekken 8 received critical acclaim, with critics praising the game's graphics, story, overall progression in the series, and aggressive gameplay. This was the final game in the series Katsuhiro Harada was involved in prior to his departure from Bandai Namco in 2025.