Tekken 8 emerges as the latest sensation in the iconic fighting game saga, building immense anticipation since its first hint at EVO 2022. The revelation of PS5 gameplay during Sony’s State of Play on September 15th has only fueled this excitement, showcasing a leap in visual fidelity and gameplay dynamics. With Tekken 7 leaving a formidable legacy over five years ago, the Tekken community eagerly awaits the evolution of its beloved series.
The centerpiece of this anticipation undoubtedly revolves around the Tekken 8 roster. This article dives into the confirmed characters of Tekken 8, exploring the blend of returning legends and intriguing new faces set to redefine the next chapter of this legendary franchise. Stay tuned as we unravel the dynamic roster of Tekken 8, promising a fusion of nostalgia and innovation.
Overview of Tekken 8’s Roster
Tekken 8, the latest installment in the renowned fighting game series, brings a fresh and exhilarating roster to the forefront. Building upon the legacy of its predecessor, Tekken 7, this new chapter introduces a mix of familiar faces and intriguing newcomers. Each character is meticulously crafted, showcasing enhanced details and dynamic abilities that leverage the advanced capabilities of the PS5. As we delve into the diverse lineup, fans can expect a blend of classic combat styles and innovative new mechanics, promising a revitalized fighting experience.
List of All Confirmed Characters in the Tekken 8 Roster
The character roster in Tekken 8 stands as a testament to the game’s rich history and its push towards the future. Here’s a closer look at some of the confirmed characters that are set to make their mark in this highly anticipated release:
Kazuya Mishima
As the saga’s enduring antagonist, Kazuya Mishima’s return to Tekken 8 is pivotal. His transformation ability and powerful combat style make him a formidable opponent. Kazuya’s character is a blend of raw power and intricate techniques, appealing to players who enjoy a challenging yet rewarding fighting experience.
Jin Kazama
A pivotal character since Tekken 3, Jin Kazama returns to the limelight in Tekken 8. Known for his complex narrative arc and formidable fighting skills, Jin’s character in this installment appears more nuanced, with a controlled mastery over his Devil transformation. This evolution adds depth to his already diverse combat style, making him a character to watch out for.
King
The luchador wrestler known as King makes a roaring comeback in Tekken 8. As the successor to the original King, he continues the legacy of high-flying grapples and throws. King’s wrestling prowess and heartwarming backstory of fighting for orphans have made him a beloved figure in the Tekken series. His presence hints at the continuation of his rivalry with characters like Armor King and Craig Marduk, offering a blend of power and technique to the ring.
Lee Chaolan
The charismatic Lee Chaolan, also known as Violet, makes a stylish comeback. Known for his blend of powerful attacks and flamboyant flair, Lee continues to balance his comic appeal with serious fighting skills. His evolving role from a central story character to a more eccentric fighter adds an entertaining layer to the game’s narrative.
Devil Jin
Devil Jin, the alter-ego of Jin Kazama, brings an intensified version of Jin’s fighting style. Known for his overwhelming strength and aerial superiority, Devil Jin’s gameplay is expected to retain its high-risk, high-reward nature. His energy blade finisher is a testament to his fearsome presence in the Tekken universe.
Nina Williams
Nina Williams, the series’ iconic assassin, returns with a fresh look and enhanced capabilities. Sporting dual-wielding guns in some of her moves, Nina’s fighting style remains as fluid and lethal as ever. Her character, with a standalone game to her credit, brings a mix of elegance and deadliness, making her a perennial favorite among Tekken fans.
Zafina
Zafina, first seen in Tekken 6, remains an enigmatic figure with mystical powers. In Tekken 8, she appears to have embraced a darker side, wielding powers reminiscent of the Demon Azazel. Her fighting style is expected to be as fluid and unpredictable as ever, blending agility with her newfound demonic abilities.
Kuma and Panda
Tekken’s whimsical duo, Kuma and Panda, are set to return with their distinct and quirky combat styles. While they share a moveset, Tekken 8 teases potential variations in their fighting techniques. Kuma, honoring his master Heihachi, and Panda, always a crowd favorite, are sure to add a fun and unconventional twist to the battles.
Jack-8
The newest iteration of the Jack series, Jack-8, joins Tekken 8 with an updated design and enhanced capabilities. These robotic fighters have been a staple since the series’ inception, known for their immense strength and surprising agility. Jack-8’s gameplay is expected to maintain the tradition of powerful blows and a formidable presence, enhanced by modern gaming technology.
Claudio Serafino
Claudio Serafino, the charismatic exorcist introduced in Tekken 7, makes a comeback. His storyline, intricately woven into Heihachi’s plot, hints at continued demon hunting in Tekken 8. Claudio’s combat style is a blend of swift movements and visually stunning magical attacks, making him a visually and tactically appealing choice for players.
Leo Kliesen
Leo Kliesen, who first appeared in Tekken 6, returns with a balanced and versatile fighting style. Offering a mix of solid strikes and effective grapples, Leo is an excellent choice for players seeking a well-rounded fighter. Their accessible move set makes them ideal for newcomers, while their depth provides ample room for mastery by more experienced players.
Jun Kazama
Jun Kazama, making a dramatic return from Tekken 2, revives intrigue and speculation among fans. Her last canonical appearance was decades ago, and her return could significantly impact the series’ narrative, particularly her interactions with her son Jin, and former lover, Kazuya. Jun’s fighting style, graceful and effective, adds a classic yet fresh element to the roster.
Alisa Bosconovich
Introduced in Tekken 6, Alisa Bosconovich, with her unique robotic abilities, offers a distinct fighting style. Her character combines innovative cybernetic moves, such as using her head as a bomb and chainsaw-equipped arms, bringing an element of surprise and tactical advantage to battles.
Leroy Smith
Leroy Smith, the stylish and formidable fighter from Tekken 7, makes his return in Tekken 8. A hit among fans for his Wing Chun-inspired fighting style and suave demeanor, Leroy adds an element of coolness and precision to the game. His cane and faithful dog Sugar, which players could use in combat in Tekken 7, are expected to make a comeback, adding to his unique appeal.
Azucena
Introducing Azucena, a new fighter hailing from Peru with a penchant for coffee. This confident character brings a fresh style to the Tekken series. Her fighting technique, characterized by taunts that morph into counters, hints at a highly strategic and deceptive combat style. Azucena’s inclusion is a thrilling addition, offering players a chance to master her unique and potentially game-changing moves.
Raven
Raven, the enigmatic secret agent with a mastery in Ninjutsu, returns with refined agility and style. First introduced in Tekken 5, he has evolved significantly, now featuring more deceptive moves and the ability to create shadowy duplicates during combat. His unpredictable attacks make him a formidable opponent, perfect for players who love a character with speed and surprise.
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Victor Chevalier
Victor Chevalier, another new face in Tekken 8, stands out with his elegant yet deadly fighting style. This old, stylish French fighter wields a cyberpunk-inspired arsenal, including teleportation devices, guns, and swords. Voiced by the talented Vincent Cassel, Victor’s character is enigmatic and intriguing, with connections to Raven that hint at a deeper story involvement.
Feng Wei
The pursuit of ultimate power continues with Feng Wei, the evil monk whose presence was first felt in Tekken 5. Known for his powerful strikes and ability to stun opponents, Feng Wei brings a sense of raw strength and martial arts mastery to the game. His fighting style promises to challenge both opponents and players, offering a deeply satisfying experience for those who master his techniques.
Steve Fox
The British boxer Steve Fox, a mainstay since Tekken 4, brings his unique boxing style back to the ring. Known for his fast-paced, punch-focused combat and evasive maneuvers, Steve offers a gameplay experience distinct from traditional Tekken fighters. His backstory, intertwined with the larger Tekken narrative, adds depth to his character, and his high skill ceiling makes him a rewarding choice for dedicated players.
Paul Phoenix and Marshall Law
The inseparable duo, Paul Phoenix and Marshall Law are back, each with their unique flair. Paul, sans his signature hairstyle, continues to showcase his brute strength with attacks powerful enough to tear his jacket. Meanwhile, Marshall Law, known for his quick strikes and nunchaku skills, brings a sense of classic martial arts cinema to the game. Their longstanding friendship and rivalry add a layer of light-hearted fun to the otherwise intense Tekken universe.
Shaheen
Shaheen, the Saudi Arabian fighter introduced in Tekken 7, returns with his sleek and aggressive combat style. Known for his accessible yet deep gameplay, Shaheen offers a blend of powerful kicks and tactical maneuvers, making him a favorite among players who appreciate straightforward yet nuanced fighting techniques. His design, deeply rooted in his cultural background, adds to the game’s global appeal.
Lars Alexandersson
Lars Alexandersson, the secret Mishima family member and protagonist of Tekken 6, returns with lightning-fast strikes and agile movements. His intricate connection to the Mishima saga and his role in supporting Jin against Kazuya make him a central character in the unfolding narrative of Tekken 8. His combat style is a testament to his Mishima lineage, making him a threat in any fight.
Ling Xiaoyu
Ling Xiaoyu, known for her agile and acrobatic fighting style, returns to support her friend Jin. Her moves, resembling a dance, make her a unique and challenging opponent. Xiaoyu’s storyline has always been closely tied to Jin, and her presence in Tekken 8 may hint at a more substantial role in the unfolding Mishima drama.
Bryan Fury
The cyborg soldier Bryan Fury, known for his chaotic and brutal fighting style, brings his brand of mayhem to Tekken 8. Described as the embodiment of Chaotic Evil, Bryan’s overwhelming power and relentless aggression make him a daunting opponent. His unique moves, including his signature floor-bouncing punch, are a spectacle in every match.
Asuka and Emilie De Rochefort (Lili)
The riveting rivalry between Asuka Kazama and Emilie De Rochefort, known as Lili, continues in Tekken 8. Asuka, with her strong-willed nature and effective combat style, contrasts sharply with Lili’s graceful yet powerful fighting moves. Their ongoing feud adds a personal and dynamic element to the game, with each character offering a distinct approach to combat.
Hwoarang
Hwoarang, the master of Taekwondo and Jin Kazama’s long-time rival returns with his high-speed kicks and aggressive fighting tactics. Known for his fiery temperament and complex move set, Hwoarang continues to be a favorite for players who enjoy a fast-paced and challenging fighting style. His rivalry with Jin adds depth to his character and an exciting dimension to the game’s narrative.
Sergei Dragunov
Sergei Dragunov, the enigmatic Russian soldier, returns with his distinct combat style. Known for his stoic demeanor and unique grappling techniques, Dragunov offers a gameplay experience that is both challenging and rewarding. While he is a man of few words, his presence on the battlefield speaks volumes, making him a compelling character for those who prefer a tactical approach to fighting.
Yoshimitsu
Yoshimitsu, the enigmatic ninja with a heart of gold, remains one of the most iconic characters in the Tekken series. His unorthodox and unpredictable fighting style, combined with his visually striking and ever-changing appearance, makes him a perennial favorite. Yoshimitsu’s moves are a blend of traditional swordplay and bizarre, almost magical attacks, offering a unique challenge to both the player and their opponents.
Reina
Lastly, Reina, the third new character, brings a mysterious aura to Tekken 8. Her combat style features a mix of powerful stances and acrobatic moves, making her a versatile fighter. Reina’s connections to the Mishima family, indicated by her electric attacks, add an interesting layer to the game’s lore. Her lack of a surname and enigmatic background make her an exciting addition to the roster.
Conclusion
As we eagerly await the release of Tekken 8, the confirmed roster so far promises a thrilling blend of nostalgia and innovation. With a mix of classic favorites and intriguing new contenders, the game is set to redefine the boundaries of fighting game dynamics. The anticipation for exploring the enhanced mechanics and features is palpable among the Tekken community. Whether you’re a veteran player or new to the series, Tekken 8’s diverse characters, coupled with its advanced gameplay, are poised to deliver an unparalleled fighting game experience. Stay tuned, as the world of Tekken 8 is bound to captivate and challenge players like never before.
