Tekken 8 - Unveiling the Ultimate Gamechanger: Set Your Calendars for August 4!

With the highly anticipated launch of Street Fighter 6 receiving rave reviews, and the exciting gameplay trailer and release date announcement for Mortal Kombat 1, fans of the beloved fighting game series Tekken may be feeling a bit left out. Despite showcasing impressive gameplay, Tekken 8's release date remains unknown. For devoted fans, it has been a long eight years since the critically acclaimed Tekken 7 hit the shelves, and the anticipation for the newest installment is palpable. As EVO 2023 approaches on August 4, there is hope that further updates on Tekken 8's progress and a release date will be unveiled.

The year 2023 holds great significance for fighting games. If Tekken 8 manages to arrive before the year's end, which many enthusiasts are eagerly hoping for, it would mark a major release for each of the genre's top three contenders in the same calendar year. However, there is also the possibility that fans may not get their hands on Tekken 8 until 2024. Nonetheless, EVO 2023 presents an opportunity to gain more insight into the situation.

Tekken 8 Could Finally Get a Release Date at EVO

The Evolution Championship Series, also known as EVO, has a rich history with the Tekken franchise. This esports tournament, dedicated to fighting games, was established in 1996 and has included Tekken games in its lineup for nearly two decades. Last year, at the same event, fans were treated to the first glimpse of Tekken 8 with a teaser featuring Kazuya's transformation from the original game to the present day, generating great excitement among the fanbase.

Developer Bandai Namco aims for Tekken 8 to usher in a bold new era for the series. The game intends to shift focus from defensive play styles to a more aggressive approach, prioritizing fast and attacking gameplay. The introduction of the Rage system empowers players with increased attack power when their health is low, and they can regain health by successfully landing their own attacks at specific moments. Additionally, the new Heat system provides further rewards for those who adopt aggressive play styles.

Not much is known about the game's narrative at this point, except for some surprising changes to the character roster. Heihachi Mishima, the central figure in Tekken's Mishima family and the source of much of the game's conflict, has finally met his demise. Despite previous instances of his supposed death, the developer has reassured fans that this time there will be no resurrection. This marks the first time Heihachi will be absent from a Tekken game since the series' debut in 1994. Equally unexpected is the return of Jun Kazama, mother of Jin and former love interest of Kazuya Mishima. Previously believed to have been killed by Ogre in Tekken 3, she is indeed alive and ready to continue where she left off.

While Street Fighter 6 and Mortal Kombat 1 may have the advantage of an earlier release, allowing the competition to make the first move gives Tekken 8 the opportunity to assess its rivals. If EVO does confirm a release date for Tekken 8, it is likely that fans will be thrilled regardless of whether it is in 2023 or the following year.

Tekken 8 is in development for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.