Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 96 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 96 out of 96
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 96
  3. Negative: 0 out of 96
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  1. Feb 7, 2024
    100
    I’m going to assume that most Tekken fans are no longer on the fence after seeing the overwhelmingly positive coverage of Tekken 8 over the last few weeks. Truth be told – Tekken 8 has earned that praise and more. Its immersive combat is fluid, cinematic, yet visceral. It sticks to its serious yet goofy roots through utilizing imaginative character archetypes and flat-out silly character customization. Its Special Style dramatically simplifies Tekken 8’s combat for new players to get them up to speed against series veterans like me. If you’re new to the series, Tekken 8 is the fighting game you should play this year. If you’re still deciding between which fighting game to play this year, Tekken 8’s combat and mechanics are the most satisfying yet. I highly recommend Tekken 8 – it’s helped 2024 start off on the right foot.
  2. Feb 1, 2024
    100
    Tekken 8 is the pinnacle of series progression: it’s not trying to reinvent in the wheel, just make it shinier and a smoother ride. With absolutely gorgeous visuals, punch-perfect fighting and a huge roster to play with, this is GOTY for beat ’em ups already.
  3. Feb 1, 2024
    100
    Tekken 8 is finally a worthy continuation of the legendary fighting game series, and at the same time, an exceptionally complete title that, from the very beginning, boasts a solid roster of fighters, great mechanics, as well as rich content for both single-player and competitive online play.
  4. Jan 26, 2024
    100
    'Street Fighter,' 'Mortal Kombat' or just 'Tekken' after all: the battle for the title of best fighting game is as old as the genre itself, but with 'Tekken 8' it has been settled: 'The King of Iron Fist Tournament' knocks out the competition. Stop what you are doing and go play this game.
  5. Jan 23, 2024
    100
    Not only does Tekken 8 give its spirited martial arts show additional momentum by using the heat energy as a call for a stronger offense. It also looks great after the graphical redesign and is packed with game variants and training options as well as clever ideas.
  6. Jan 23, 2024
    100
    Tekken 8 gives the impression that Bandai Namco wants everyone to play for a long time. The bar is set high in terms of visuals, narrative and in-game possibilities, although the single player content leaves something to be desired. Bandai Namco's new release is one of the best fighting games in a long time. Whether you're a Tekken fan or not. There are so many characters that it's impossible not to like any of them. It's a very worthwhile game and is already one of this year's highlights.
  7. Jan 23, 2024
    100
    The best Tekken to date proves that plenty of depth makes for a vibrant fighter, justifying its current-gen exclusivity to deliver a skull-thrasher that really feels like an evolution rather than a simple update.
  8. Jan 23, 2024
    100
    Tekken 8 is a sensational sequel. With a renewed emphasis on single-player modes and a new Heat mechanic which ensures fights are more frenetic, it's up there with Tekken 3 as one of the most exciting high points in the series.
  9. Jan 23, 2024
    100
    It almost feels clinical to say, like it's a technicality, but this is the best Tekken game I have ever played. Tekken 7 was the best, and this one is better. It gives you more of everything, bigger, louder, and better. I don't say that with one ounce of begrudgery, I am wholeheartedly in love with Tekken 8. It earns the top spot by being undeniably brilliant.
  10. Jan 23, 2024
    100
    Tekken 8 is a bold direction in the fighter genre that ultimately leads to it being one of the greatest fighting games of all time. The amount of content that Bandai Namco is offering here is more than ever before seen in a fighting game.
  11. Jan 23, 2024
    100
    Tekken 8 is a masterpiece of a video game, fighting game, or otherwise. It isn't even a question of being a fighting game purist, as this is a title that needs to be part of any gamer's library, irrespective of skill level or genre preferences. Tekken games were always about the thrill of combat and discovery, with a memorable graphical and musical presentation and a larger-than-life story mode starring some of the most iconic characters. Tekken 8 is the kind of game designed for heavy mileage, a game that's easy to come back to time and time again for years to come.
  12. Jan 23, 2024
    100
    Whether you’re a newcomer to Tekken or an old hand, this is a ridiculously fun game to learn. You want the best the King of Iron Fists Tournament has to offer? Tekken 8 is it, and looks set to carry that torch for years to come.
  13. Jan 23, 2024
    95
    With impeccable pacing and moment to moment grandeur of little details a fight in TEKKEN 8 looks and feels like dancing. Every movement, every sound effect and every camera angle captures perfectly these wild celebration of the human body. A meaningful story mode and with different fighters feels truly different then ever before this whole package is just a love letter for long time fans and newcomers alike
  14. Jan 23, 2024
    95
    Tekken 8 is the most fun Tekken to play, improves the online and the content for a single player. It is the best launch possible to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the saga. It has a great gameplay, a varied and solid roster, a spectacular story mode, and a lot of modes and customization options. It also has some flaws, such as the lack of some classic characters, the uneven quality of the scenarios, or the absence of a Tekken Force mode or similar.
  15. Jan 23, 2024
    95
    Tekken 8 is a natural evolution of a fantastic series. The online finally has a very well implemented rollback netcode. The cinematic story mode is well made and has an interesting plot. Other modes such as Tekken Ball and Arcade Quest help with the title's longevity. But the point that matters most, which is the gameplay, continues to please veterans and newcomers alike - but only time will tell if the Heat System will be well accepted by the majority of players.
  16. 95
    Tekken 8 is a fantastic entry in the long-running franchise and a fitting celebration of its 30-year history. With a varied roster packed with unique move sets, the addition of the Heat system and recoverable health gauge, plus a huge variety of modes, Tekken 8 is unmissable for both newcomers and fans alike.
  17. Jan 23, 2024
    94
    Tekken 8 is yet another great chapter in a series incapable of making missteps. The new mechanics change the skin of the game and, although the historical detractors will not find particular reasons to change their minds (the famous "volleyball simulator" for the emphasis placed on juggles), all the others will find an incredibly deep game, which will accompany them for several years to come. Who knows, maybe thanks to Ghosts even those who are completely resistant to online gaming will find the courage to take their first steps in a new world.
  18. Feb 7, 2024
    93
    Tekken 8 is a game that justifies every cent invested. Boasting an array of single-player features (highlighted by the return of Tekken Ball), seamless online matches without any lag, and stunning next-generation graphics, this title warrants attention even from those who typically aren't enthusiasts of the franchise or the fighting game genre as a whole.
  19. Jan 23, 2024
    93
    Tekken 8’s focus on aggressive gameplay helps to make this the best entry in the franchise. The Heat System is fantastic and gives new options of attack for every fighter on the diverse roster. While the larger cinematic story is an improvement on its predecessor, it could still fail to capture the attention of newcomers due to it being a continuation of a 30-year-long tale. However, with a ton of content, a stable online component and interesting new characters, Tekken 8 is an essential game for fans of the genre.
  20. Jan 23, 2024
    93
    Tekken 8 is, in line with its reputation as a highly technical fighter, a strict teacher. At the same time, it is also the gentlest possible remedy for players who struggle with the demanding controls. It is sometimes said that the latter category causes stinking wounds, but Tekken 8 actually prevents them from arising through the truckload of help it offers novice players. Add to that the quality-of-life improvements, the most immersive story modes in the series, eye-catching graphics and the enormous amount of content, and Tekken 8 is without a doubt the most accessible installment in the franchise.
  21. Jan 23, 2024
    92
    To put it simply, this is the best Tekken ever.
  22. Feb 7, 2024
    91
    Tekken 8 has met expectations and even exceeded them. The opening cinematic alone will make you want to play for hours. It's a title that has been created based on learning from the mistakes made by the franchise in the past and has reinvented itself.
  23. Jan 23, 2024
    91
    When writing this review, Tekken 8 is the most refined combat experience in the market. It features a highly entertaining storyline that develops each fighter's narrative. The online gameplay works tremendously and offers numerous options for all preferences. Adjustments in the game mechanics make combat much more spectacular and offensive. Technically, it is an experience that fans of the series will adore.
  24. Feb 26, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 has not only become a benchmark on next-gen, but on how fighting games must be design for casual and hardcore players.
  25. Edge Magazine
    Feb 22, 2024
    90
    It remains to be seen whether Bandai Namco's game can achieve what Street Fighter 6 hasn't quite managed, and bring in a new generation of players, but this is the first time in decades that these longtime rivals have felt so well matched. [Issue#395, p.114]
  26. Feb 21, 2024
    90
    In case it hasn’t been made abundantly clear by now, Tekken 8 is a must-play for fans of the series, fans of the genre, or even for new players wondering what all the hype is about. It’s a standout entry in a phenomenal series, it respects the player’s time, and gives them a ton to do, and it’s a joy to play. Go get it.
  27. Feb 20, 2024
    90
    Whether you want to sit down for an evening and throw hands with a devil or hop online to grind ranked, there are multiple ways to enjoy both on top of plenty of extras to sink your teeth into.
  28. PLAY
    Feb 19, 2024
    90
    The most welcoming Tekken for beginners, yet also the definitive experience for fans. Kicks the competition to the kerb, and finishes it off with a flashy move. [Issue#37, p.88]
  29. Feb 14, 2024
    90
    TEKKEN 8 is an awesome fighter that's only matched with Street Fighter 6 as a true definition of what the genre should be.
  30. Feb 13, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is not just a return to form, it's a Tekken masterpiece. Without question, this is the most fun I've had playing a Tekken game in a very long time. It's only a matter of time for people to call this one scrubby too, and I am here for it. Harada, hat tip to you. Beautiful and very fun game.
  31. Feb 13, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 continues the fine balance of pulling up newcomers while catering to seasoned players. Despite a vocal minority already raising a stink about the game’s post launch plans, Tekken 8 is a fully featured game worthy of your money. Players will not need to worry about a Tekken 8+ or a Tekken 9 coming in the near future. Harada and team have built a fine foundation and Tekken 8 will be facilitating a lot of “Good Ass Tekken” for years to come. Now if you need me I’ll be in the lab, cause newbie crushing can only be so fun for so long…maybe it’s time for me to elevate my game (well until I get the platinum trophy and move on…but at least it’ll be a fun time.)!
  32. 90
    Tekken 8 doubles down on all of the right aspects and delivers the ultimate Tekken experience through an extremely polished combat system, a beautiful presentation, a surprisingly well-crafted story mode, a few novel mechanics, and a groundbreaking new game mode.
  33. Feb 7, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 blows fresh air into the ultra-popular series that was slacking behind the competition in recent years, delivering one of the best fighting experiences of this generation and maybe ever.
  34. Feb 7, 2024
    90
    This is an outstanding return for the King of Iron Fist Tournament. While I have my critiques, they come from someone whose fondest early gaming memories are button-mashing through Tekken 3. I want character customization to be at its best because that’s been one of my favorite features since it was added. I want the stories to hit harder because, as crazy as they are, the characters deserve it. At the end of the day though, none of those negatives are related to the core gameplay. Proper working rollback netcode, crossplay across all platforms, and aggressive Heat Mechanics are what will keep me playing whenever I can. Tekken 8 is pure fun — and that’s what’s most important to me.
  35. Feb 6, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is a great fighting game. Players of all skill levels can enjoy it, and as with all fighting games, practice and effort pay off.
  36. Feb 6, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 offers a wealth of offline and online content, featuring an enormous roster and excellent combat system. It marks in a truly great return to form for one of the classics of the fighting genre.
  37. 90
    Overall, Tekken 8 is an impressive product. There's a variety of content here to keep players satisfied. I would've liked more new characters but two of them at least offer something different. The story delivers plenty of bombast and manages to tie up some loose ends whilst Arcade Quest tries to romanticise the arcade community in an endearing way. Online play has been very smooth and the fighting overall has been fun and kinetic. It also think the teaching tools are great for getting newcomers onboard.
  38. Feb 5, 2024
    90
    Putting nostalgia aside, this might be the greatest sequel the Tekken franchise has ever received. Quite aggressive and visually attractive, everyone can find something to enjoy in this latest instalment. Add the simplified controls for the newcomers, and it is almost guaranteed everyone will have a good time with this game if they ever decide to give it a go.
  39. Jan 29, 2024
    90
    There really is a lot to love about Tekken 8, and the great thing is how familiar the game still feels while constantly impressing you with everything that’s new and shiny. This is a new generation of Tekken that is sure to keep you hooked for a very long time.
  40. Jan 29, 2024
    90
    Although its offline content is less than expected, Tekken 8 delivers an engaging combat system and its characters have never been as fun as they are now.
  41. Jan 29, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 breaks the chains that held it anchored to the past while remembering the lessons learned so far: welcome to the next-generation Iron Fist tournament.
  42. Jan 24, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is as equally ridiculous as it is sensible. It makes crazy, entertaining choices for its story while also opening its doors to a more contemporary, wider audience through some systems that increase the game’s approachability.
  43. Jan 24, 2024
    90
    The best Tekken game of the modern era, with a vastly improved range of game modes and the most accessible and aggressive action the series has ever seen.
  44. Jan 24, 2024
    90
    I thoroughly enjoyed my return to the Tekken series and more importantly, it will become a fighter that I can revisit again and again. The developers aimed high with Tekken 8 and succeeded in delivering a fighter that can be played by all and yes, the King of Iron Fist Tournament is back! Sure, the story can become convoluted at times (what Tekken game isn’t) but for the most part, it’s a rollercoaster ride from start to finish with perfect fighting mechanics thrown into the fray. At its core, it’s a next-gen fighter with a wonderful cast of fighters that I’m eager to unlock more about their stories and play it more online with friends and enemies. Brilliant!
  45. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    I appreciate the fact, that developers have made their homework. Tekken 8 has all the things I wanted it to, ane even more. Right now this is the best instalment of the series (since the near-perfect Tekken 5) and the best current-gen fighting game.
  46. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    With a great cast of characters and refined gameplay, TEKKEN 8 builds upon the foundations of the previous game to create a thrilling and satisfying experience that excels in almost every aspect. Undoubtedly, it's a really fun and fascinating game that raises the bar for fighting games to another level and both newcomers and longtime fans will enjoy it.
  47. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    It is an entry in the franchise that does not disappoint, on the contrary, it will delight both veterans and those who have never tried anything from the saga. If you were waiting for the game with complete enthusiasm, I am pleased to inform you that the purchase is a must, especially if you keep up to date with Tekken.
  48. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is everything the fanbase has been waiting for and more. With an upgrade in visuals and mechanics and a host of game modes at your disposal, you'll struggle to run out of people to punch in the face (virtually, of course).
  49. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    It’s honestly a testament to how much fun the developers packed into the narrative experience. The game manages to entertain and poke fun at itself in equal measure, resulting in a terrific time for series vets and a solid introduction to the gameplay for newcomers.
  50. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Even if Arcade Quest isn’t as strong as previous single-player Tekken modes, its ability to open up one of the genre’s more complicated series is admirable and does feel worth trading more single-player content for in the long run. It also doesn’t stop Tekken 8 from being one of the best entries in the series, thanks to its memorable single-player campaign, great additions to the roster, and exciting mechanical focus on aggressive and fast-paced gameplay. Tekken is back, and it’s just as strong as it’s ever been.
  51. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is jam-packed with modes, story, and customizable options that should allow players of any skill level to have fun. Battling against veteran players in the multiple online modes will likely be a punishing experience for new players. Still, the latest installment offers the best tools in the franchise yet to master each of its 32 playable characters. Despite being more accessible than ever, Tekken 8 is challenging to master, and continues to make a case for itself as one of gaming's most complex and rewarding fighters.
  52. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 offers a suitable playground for both novices and purists of the saga. Set to last, the game sets the bar very high, corrects the defaults of the previous game and greatly improves the experience. We can’t wait to see how Bandai Namco will follow up in the coming months/years. A must-have for any lovers of fighting games that respects. You will not regret it.
  53. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is full of excitement and we loved it! Technically, in both substance and form, the Bandai Namco fighting game is a gem of the genre. If it sometimes lacks a little originality in terms of content, but there is still a lot of it, it all makes it one of the best 3D fighting games of recent years. Its new features in terms of gameplay are enough to stand out from previous opuses and hold its own against its competitors, all with vast content that is still substantial enough to play for dozens of hours. And as long as you are addicted to online confrontations, Tekken 8 really has something to satisfy and challenge you for a very, very long time! The whole is also served by an absolutely magnificent production which immediately immerses you in extremely aggressive and intense battles.
  54. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is one of the most aesthetically pleasing fighting games on the market. The title has been taken care of down to the smallest detail and features a simplified combat system, while building on the very solid foundations of its predecessor. A varied roster and a first-rate single player component will guarantee endless hours of fun for every type of player. It's a shame for a few too many stumbles in the online component, which partially compromises a product that is absolutely excellent from every other point of view. Having said this, we have decided to reward the enormous amount of content present in the title and above all the extremely precise, pleasant and simple to understand teaching methods.
  55. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is an exaggerated game, at times shamelessly and proudly flashy, that has evolved significantly in nearly every aspect, but still has some steps to take in terms of tutorials and content to offer a truly flawless package. Overall, however, it remains an exceptional Tekken, capable of capturing more than ever that spirit which makes this series practically immortal today, and even of walking without stumbling along that thin philosophical line that seeks to please both newcomers and veterans of the series. Of course, the changes to the system are massive, and transformations of this kind can never please everyone, yet we are sincerely convinced that this is currently the most fun fighting game around, not to mention that it will almost certainly be properly supported in the coming years, given the history of its developers.
  56. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken knows where it's coming from, and we love where it's going. The new mechanics build on a more than established foundation, and add a special flavor that will be enjoyed by newcomers and veterans alike. The Heat System is a hit, and the new arcade modes are more than welcome. A Tekken to play for thousands of hours.
  57. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Taking into consideration its wealth of content and aggressive combat system, it’s clear that Tekken 8 is one of the best fighting games around. With its numerous single-player modes and online offerings, there’s something here for everyone. And its character roster should be applauded for its depth and variety. Above all, though, Tekken 8 succeeds because it’s simply such good fun to play. Stunning visuals work with its clever camera to inject battles with genuine drama. And thanks to more accessibility options than ever, more players can have fun whether they’re a seasoned pro or an absolute newcomer.
  58. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is a shot in the arm for the genre, advancing the setting while offering addictive combat, exceptional presentation and a suite of features to attract new and experienced players.
  59. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is an amazing new entry in the long-running series. Interesting tweaks to its classic fighting systems, a full suite of fun offline modes, great new characters, incredible training tools, and a vastly improved online experience all add up to a fighting game I will be playing for many years to come. There are a few small hiccups here and there, such as the lack of spectating in custom rooms, but I’m having trouble thinking of how Bandai Namco could have set Tekken on a better path to the future overall. By honoring its legacy, but continuing to move forward, Tekken 8 manages to stand out as something special.
  60. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 has not only become a benchmark on next-gen, but on how fighting games must be design for casual and hardcore players.
  61. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Amazing graphics, new characters and a new gameplay mode. Tekken returns stronger than ever and finally draws the curtains for the bout surrounding Jin and his father Kazuya.
  62. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken is back at full force with a very solid eight entry. This next step for the franchise is full of content that resonates with Tekken's own historic legacy. Whether it is the amazing character design, both visually and mechanically, as well as through its many family dramas, Tekken 8 just knows how to do it all. The Iron Fist Tournament is definitely as good as ever.
  63. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 emerges as the king of modern fighting games. The Heat System turns the intensity of battles up to the max, the abundance of options and game modes won’t let you get bored for a long time, while the focus on new players should help convince even your most resistant friends to duel with you.
  64. 90
    Tekken 8 is, without a doubt, a highly polished gemstone of a fighting game, and it offers players the opportunity to demonstrate some truly elite skills through the aggressive, offensive-first focus on the combat system. But outside of the overly serious, hardcore fighting game community, it’s difficult to see this capturing the imagination of many. A lack of humour, creativity, narrative and personality makes it clear that Bandai Namco’s only real interest was making sure that no one was offended by the game and therefore it will be the headline act at fighting game tournaments for years to come. Luckily for the developers, they hit the brief and it almost certainly will be exactly that game.
  65. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    With extremely rewarding combat, a plethora of fun characters, polished graphics and the series' most ambitious story to date, Tekken 8 manages to stand out as one of the most engaging fighting games of all time.
  66. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Thanks to the brand new heat system, Tekken 8 impresses with even more heated and aggressive duels and thus hits exactly the right mark. Tekken has simply never played so well. A fantastic start to the video game year 2024 for all fighting game fans.
  67. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is a robust package that features some of the most satisfying digital fisticuffs I’ve ever seen.
  68. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is a welcome return for the series, with a fighting style that feels fresh through its aggressive combat, and plethora of modes.
  69. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is an improvement over Tekken 7 in many ways. Although the main story is not very long, it is told and portrayed much better than in the previous installment. The game is a feast for the eyes thanks to Unreal Engine 5. Tekken 8 also plays very smoothly and both a beginner and a veteran will have a great time due to the large amount of content. Everyone can improve and learn thanks to the Special Style and the Heat System provide new dynamics and ways to play Tekken 8.
  70. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is a modern fighting game masterclass. It doesn't skimp on single-player modes, its online offering is robust, and it's a serious visual spectacle. But most importantly, the battles are brilliant; accessible yet deeply technical, and supremely satisfying to be a part of — perhaps more so than ever before. There's no fighting game series quite like Tekken, and Tekken 8 is the franchise at its bombastic best.
  71. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 is daunting to get into, don’t get me wrong, but it’s the same kind of fear you feel when you start something new and exciting in your life.
  72. Jan 23, 2024
    90
    Tekken 8 has started 2024 off with a bang, proving once again why this fighting series is great! It's maybe not quite as newcomer friendly as Street Fighter 6, but has a bevy of modes and new tweaks that means it's going in the right direction to be a game for all players, old and new, and will only get better over time.
  73. Jan 23, 2024
    89
    Tekken 8 offers a successful update to the formula of the franchise by showing a powerful performance and an array of game modes that satisfy both expert players and newcomers.
  74. Jan 23, 2024
    88
    Tekken 8 is back with impressive graphics, an improved combat system and cool modes, but it's a bit lacking for single-player fans.
  75. Feb 13, 2024
    85
    Tekken 8 feels like a great game that with a bit more tuning could have been the best fighting game out there. The last fight of the campaign feels unnecessarily long, the Arcade Quest mode could have been made into a better fit with the rest of the game and there are some other aspects that commenting upon almost feels like nitpicking. Tekken 8 remains one of the best fighting games available, but it does not have a secret move to beat Mortal Kombat 1 or Street Fighter 6. There is no clear winner, and it all comes down to personal taste and which universe do you prefer.
  76. Jan 27, 2024
    85
    With Tekken 8, Bandai Namco has found the right formula to bring together VS Fighting noobs and experts under the same gameplay. Easier to access than Street Fighter, King of Fighters and even Mortal Kombat, Tekken 8 is also there to make the show visual for spectators. We had fun, even if the Story mode is very kitsch, the Tekken Ball mode is useless and we would have liked something other than Mii avatars.
  77. Jan 23, 2024
    85
    The new Tekken does not want to reinvent the wheel, but relies entirely on the rock-solid gameplay for which the series is known. That works out well in this case. The new Heat system makes battles even more explosive and intense, and the Special Style control option ensures that even inexperienced players can pull out all the stops. With these sharp additions and the impressive visual splendor, Tekken 8 can win the hearts of veterans and new fans alike.
  78. Jan 23, 2024
    84
    As usual, high-quality fighting action that puts Tekken at the top of the genre shelf despite weaknesses in the additional modes. Tekken fans and those who want to become one should be picked up equally.
  79. Feb 9, 2024
    83
    Coming off of a remarkably strong year for the genre, Tekken 8 continues the trend of excellent fighters for this console generation. It's a visually dynamic and enjoyable to play title that will be a part of the scene for years to come. I just wish there were more options for single-player modes.
  80. Jan 23, 2024
    83
    As a complete package, Tekken 8 doesn’t reach the heights of recent rivals like Street Fighter 6 and Mortal Kombat 1. But when the match begins, and you’re exploiting openings to unleash flashy combo strings and air juggles, it remains a thrilling, if very familiar, one-on-one experience. The latest King of Iron Fist tournament still has work to do to feel wholly satisfying or ground-breaking, but it remains a fun arena to test your mettle against friends and rivals.
  81. Jan 23, 2024
    83
    Tekken 8 finally opens the doors to new players and welcomes them with open arms. The steps this game takes to help those new to the franchise should be applauded. Couple that with the always solid fighting system and Tekken 8 is a winner.
  82. Feb 9, 2024
    80
    Tekken 8 could be a much more special experience if Bandai Namco's teams took a bolder approach. But as it stands out the game feels like just a pretty good fighting game, that can be enjoyed by both fans and casual players alike.
  83. Feb 2, 2024
    80
    Tekken 8 offers a ton of ways to fight whether you want to head online or you’re looking for a fully featured single-player experience. A lot of them are just okay, but when you have this much variety, something is bound to stick, and even when some of its modes weren’t blowing me away, the fantastic combat at the center of this experience did. This isn’t a massive evolution for the Tekken series, but fans looking for their new fix will get what they want, while new players will find perhaps the most accessible Tekken yet.
  84. Feb 2, 2024
    80
    Eight years after its predecessor originally launched in arcades, Tekken 8 has arrived, and it has brought the heat to match the long wait. The Heat System is an exciting addition to the fighting mechanics earmarked by flashy moves and multiple ways to use them. The roster is deep and varied, and it offers something for everyone. Both offline and online players will find plenty of things to do, and the customization options all add a personal flair. Tekken 8 is poised for another near-decade of dominance, as it's a Devil of a good time.
  85. 80
    Tekken 8 is a spectacular return to form. A familiar experience with new mechanics and awesome graphics to elevate it to it's best shape ever.
  86. Jan 31, 2024
    80
    Tekken 8 is a competent and appealing entry in the series that shakes up its familiar combat system without making it too unbalanced. Apart from the story campaign, the offline modes sadly aren’t as strong as they could be. But the PvP modes work fairly well and will keep the community afloat, even if crossplay is a bit finicky and the online connection crashes on occasion. Tekken 8 provides a solid base for additional content until the next entry, be it more characters, customization options, or extra modes. Either way, we’re ready for the next battle.
  87. Jan 25, 2024
    80
    Bandai Namco has never put together such a feature-rich version of Tekken before, and even as the latest chapter of the Mishima saga comes to a close, the legacy of the signature fighting game series will be celebrated for years to come...But what Tekken 8 proves more than anything is that the infamously complex franchise is still capable of evolving. The new game makes a serious investment in making its most intimidating features accessible to a wider audience, while also offering weird detours and an ambitious story mode that reveals the limitations of the Tekken brand.
  88. 80
    Tekken 8 shows just how easy it is for a long-running franchise to remain fresh and relevant, while still offering a familiar experience to established fans. An engaging Story Mode coupled with Character Episodes keeps the narrative running, while Arcade Quest and Tekken Ball gives newcomers the opportunity to learn the ropes. While some fans may not like that their favourite character is missing from the roster, Tekken 8 fills the gaps with fresh new faces and the hint of more characters on the horizon. It’s time to get ready for the next battle!
  89. Jan 23, 2024
    80
    It's a great option to utilize without ever feeling like a potential crutch that could keep someone from diving even deeper. That's just Tekken 8 as a whole, too. So much of it feels so welcoming that there are plenty of options for single-player battles, and if you spend enough time, it will eventually build the confidence to take it all online. But like other fighting games, it's going to be necessary to grind your skills. The strength of all of these potential options will be put to the test long after release, but as of right now, Tekken 8 is the best Tekken has ever been.
  90. This is a game designed primarily to appease an existing audience, not court a new one. While that’s definitely good for die-hard Tekken players, it also means that Tekken 8 just feels like another one. Another Tekken game, without anything more to say. It’s Tekken, it’s great, but I wish it were more.
  91. Jan 23, 2024
    80
    Although it could benefit from tutorials more in line with the new standards, Tekken 8 is yet a new staple in the fighting game genre with visually stunning fights and a demanding but exhilarating gameplay.
  92. Jan 23, 2024
    80
    Tekken 8 has lots to offer both new and veteran players. The cinematic, over-the-top storyline is gorgeous and ends in a thematically brilliant fight; Arcade Quest is the perfect place to master all the fighters, and online play has never before been more accessible to all.
  93. Jan 23, 2024
    80
    TEKKEN 8 unleashes a storm of punches, blending chaotic Mishima drama with accessible combat changes. The short story, though dramatic, loses steam, but the Heat system and Special Style redefine the fight. Arcade Quest mode injects a needed charm, offering a nostalgic journey with opportunities to grow your fighting game skills. Visually stunning with a diverse soundtrack, the game achieves a balance between the familiar and the cutting-edge. Despite a stumble in the narrative, TEKKEN 8 delivers a knockout combo.
  94. Jan 23, 2024
    80
    Tekken 8 had some pretty big expectations to meet, but it exceeds every single one. It’s a concrete addition to a well-established series and manages to add complexity to an already solid combat system. Every battle feels as though your life is on the line, the mark of a fantastic fighting game.
  95. Jan 23, 2024
    80
    With more accessible gameplay, very neat introductions to its array of fighters and their individual quirks, and new fighting styles for newbie players, Tekken 8 feels like an incredibly worthy fighting sequel geared to overtake its predecessors.
  96. Jan 30, 2024
    79
    Tekken 8 is the definition of everything that is good about Bandai Namco's fighting game. It is dynamic with a technical section worthy of this generation and has entertaining game modes such as Heat Mode. It has a decent roster of characters with new additions that fit the formula very well.
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  1. Feb 21, 2024
    Tekken 8’s generational leap is more evident than ever in this game. With 32 characters in its starting roster, a story mode that’s both bombastic and deeply personal, and an amazing game feel, it’s impossible not to recommend this game. [Recommended]
  2. Jan 23, 2024
    There is a lot to love here. Satisfying mechanics, gorgeous combat animation, flashy presentation, and a killer soundtrack. That said, I don’t know if my own excitement will be enough to win over friends who are on the fence about the unremarkable story, incomplete tutorialization, and aesthetically dubious roster. [Polygon Recommends]