Like a veteran fighter returning to the ring for one more bout, the beat em’ up classic isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. Tekken 8 is ready for another round – and the title of best fighting game ever is set firmly in its sights.
To make sure you’re prepared to enter the ring, we’ve got all the key info you need. From the release date and gameplay details to the multiplayer modes and crossplay. Round 1. Fight!
What is Tekken 8’s release date?
Tekken 8 hits PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S and PC on January 26, 2024. So, limber up and head to the dojo for a quick sparring session. Because the Iron Fist tournament kicks off real soon.
How much will Tekken 8 cost?
It’ll cost you £64.99 on either console or £54.99 through Steam. We know, we know – PC players are getting a slightly better deal there. But please don’t fight over it!
If you’d rather grab a digital copy, we’ve got you covered too. Get yourself a PlayStation or Xbox gift card, (or a Steam wallet card if you’re on PC), and top up your account. Then download it straight from the online store.
Can I pre-order Tekken 8?
You can pre-order Tekken 8 for PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S as we speak. And if you use the code FIGHT20 at checkout, you can get 20% off the price tag. Along with a few extra in-game skins and costumes. Very nice.
Plus, it’ll arrive at your place on launch day – letting you get a jump start on the competition. So, beat your mates to it, and get your order in now.
Tekken 8 platforms and crossplay
Like we’ve mentioned above, you can get your hands on the game on pretty much any platform. But, if you’re still rocking one of the older consoles – like the PS4 or Xbox One X – or have a Switch, you’re going to have to upgrade. It’s definitely worth it though!
What if your mates are all playing in different places? Well, you’re in luck. The director confirmed last year that Tekken 8 will have crossplay at launch. Meaning you can still challenge them to a face off. Even if you’re playing on PlayStation, and your friend is a big PC gamer.
How to play Tekken 8
If you’ve played any Tekken game before, you know the deal by now. You’ll fight one on one in a 2D style, side on view. Unleashing bone-breaking special moves and devastating combos in full on slugfests. Every match will test your reactions to their limits - they’re hard-hitting and seriously fast paced. And rounds can be over in seconds if you’re not fighting fit. So, it’s not for the faint hearted.
But the devs haven’t only stuck to the same retro, punchy gameplay they’re known for. The brand new ‘Heat System’ rewards you for getting aggressive. When you go on the offensive, you’ll build up Heat, unlocking epic ability boosts that help to make every character completely unique.
You’ll be scrapping across 16 battle stages – from mountain tops to lush jungles and destroyed cities. And these backdrops aren’t just for show either. They’re fully destructible spaces, with interactive elements that can give you the edge in combat. Keep an eye out for them. They might just save your life.
How many hours of gameplay will Tekken 8 have?
The Tekken series has always been one of those games you can keep coming back to. With so many characters to brawl with and modes to tackle, there’s more fisticuffs here than an all-day Rocky marathon. So, we wouldn’t want to put a number on it! After all, to become a real Kung-Fu master, it takes hours of practice…
Who are the main characters?
In Tekken 8, you can choose from a whopping 32 fighters from the off. All of them come with their own special moves and combos, which you’ll have to master to come out on top. Or you could just start button mashing I guess…
So, here are a few old favourites, plus one new face that’s making their Iron Fist tournament debut:
Kuma – Want to go full beast mode? Kuma is a massive grizzly bear. Yep, seriously. Known for his super strength, he’s surprisingly light on his feet too. Oh, and he’s dressed like Rambo. Roar-some…
Victor Chevalier – A descendant from a long line of brave knights, Victor goes out of his way to protect those in need. And will sacrifice his own life if he has to. Wielding a cybernetic sword in one hand and a pistol in the other, he can get in close with lightning-fast lunges. Or just pick you off from a distance with a devastating volley.
Jun Kazama – Tekken 8 marks her first appearance since Tekken 2. Which if you can believe it, came out all the way back in 1995. And she’s only got more powerful since then. Jun can unleash deadly martial arts moves, mixing things up with a range of supernatural abilities. So, don’t be fooled by that zen personality.
Just like the previous Tekken titles, you can bet that more combatants will be added to the roster post-launch. So, if one of your go-to characters isn’t here just yet, they might turn up in the next few months. Fingers crossed.
What are the different Tekken 8 game mode options?
Tekken 8 comes with a bunch of fun modes to try out. Here are a few that we’re looking forward to the most:
Arcade Quest – Create your own custom avatar and explore an old-school arcade hub area. Challenge other players in mini tournaments and make a name for yourself in the Tekken world.
Super Ghost Battle – You know how people say that your own worst enemy is yourself? That’s literally the case here. You’ll go up against your ghost twin – a clever AI that learns exactly how you fight, and then uses that knowledge against you. Spooky.
The Darkness Awakens story mode – Mishima and Kazama are having another family feud. But at this point, we’re really not surprised. Fight your way through epic cinematic battles and put an end to their reign of death and destruction.
Tekken Ball – Pop down to the beach and chuck a volleyball at each other. In this whacky mode, you’ll use attacks to send it flying at your opponent. You’ll have a…ball.
Practice mode – Need to brush up on a specific combo? Head to the practice ring to work on your timing. All that training will pay off in the end.
Will Tekken 8 have a multiplayer mode?
If you get your kicks from facing off against your mates (or other fighters from around the world), then you’re in luck. Tekken 8 comes with ranked and casual versus modes. Letting you put the smackdown on people online, or just your friend who’s sat on the sofa next to you. And you definitely won’t want to lose. Those all-important bragging rights are at stake!
What Tekken 8 features are player customisable?
You’ve got to look good when you enter the arena. Luckily, you can customise every fighter from head to toe with cool gear, costumes, and unlockable skins. Or, if you prefer a goofy look, just chuck on a colourful curly wig, and have at it instead. Who knows, maybe your opponent will be laughing so much that they won’t be able to concentrate!
Want to see what else is coming out soon? Then head over to our upcoming games page to stay in the loop.
