The Evolution of Tekken: A Journey Through the PlayStation Era

The Tekken series by Bandai Namco Entertainment stands as one of the foremost franchises that come to mind when players think of fighting games. Debuting in arcades in 1994, Tekken played a pivotal role in popularizing 3D fighting games with its iconic characters, humor, revolutionary gameplay, and polygonal graphics. These achievements continued throughout the series, keeping it at the forefront of the genre well beyond the arcade era.

As Tekken 8 looms on the horizon, let’s explore how the series has evolved and become intricately tied to each PlayStation console.

Tekken: Firm Beginnings

Tekken | Released in 1995 | PlayStation

After arcade success, Tekken made its console debut on the original PlayStation, released just two months after the console’s launch. It immediately replicated its arcade triumph in living rooms, setting the foundation for the series. With detailed graphics, 60 frames per second, and an accessible yet challenging control system, Tekken became a must-play title.

Noteworthy characters like Armor King and the final boss, Heihachi, were unlockable, enhancing the memorable roster. Tekken’s success in arcades seamlessly transitioned to consoles, paving the way for Bandai Namco Entertainment to continue the series.

Heihachi Mishima establishes the “King of Iron Fist Tournament” to prove his strength. He defeats all but his son, Kazuya, who seeks revenge. Kazuya triumphs throws Heihachi off a cliff, and inherits the Mishima Zaibatsu.

Tekken 2: A Refined Formula

Tekken 2 | Released in 1996 | PlayStation

Tekken 2, appearing in arcades in 1995 and on PlayStation in 1996, built upon the foundations set by its predecessor. With 25 playable characters, new mechanics like unique evasion throws, and special reversal attacks were introduced. Modes like Time Attack, Team Battle, Survival, and Training expanded the game’s appeal, making Tekken 2 one of the best-selling titles on the PlayStation.

This installment marked the beginning of Kazuya’s reign as the series’ antagonist, setting the stage for Jin’s future as a protagonist.

Kazuya organizes a second tournament with the Mishima Zaibatsu as the prize. He falls for Jun Kazama, has a son (Jin), and faces Heihachi in the final. Heihachi wins, but Kazuya transforms into a devil. Heihachi throws him into a volcano, reclaiming the Mishima Zaibatsu.

Tekken 3: A Familiar Face

Tekken 3 | Released in 1998 | PlayStation

Tekken continued its PlayStation success with Tekken 3. Iconic characters like Jin, Eddy Gordo, Xiaoyu, and others joined the roster. Significant changes, such as reduced jump heights, side throws, and moves during sidesteps, brought Tekken closer to its modern form. Exclusive PlayStation modes, including the beat-em-up Tekken Force and the volleyball game Tekken Ball, further enriched the experience.

Jun trains Jin to avenge her. Heihachi frees the Ogre, seeking its power. Jin defeats Ogre but is betrayed by Heihachi. Revealing the Devil Gene, Jin transforms, defeats Heihachi, and flies off. G-corp resurrects Kazuya. Jin and Kazuya’s conflict escalates.

Tekken Tag Tournament: Wonderful 2v2s

Tekken Tag Tournament | Released in 2000 | PlayStation 2

Tekken made its debut on the PlayStation 2 with Tekken Tag Tournament, introducing tag battles. Players could seamlessly switch between characters, each with unique attributes. The PlayStation 2 version boasted enhanced graphics and additional modes, including classic 1v1 battles, team battles, and the new bowling mini-game, Tekken Bowl.

Tekken 4: A Dynamic Reintroduction

Tekken 4 | Released in 2002 | PlayStation 2

Tekken 4 marked a significant departure with a darker tone, improved graphics, and dynamic environments. Players could move before rounds began, and the introduction of walled stages extended combos. The PlayStation 2 version included Tekken Force and a new story mode with unique cinematics, showcasing the franchise’s ongoing evolution.

Heihachi hosts the fourth tournament, aiming to lure Kazuya. Jin reaches the final but is attacked. Jack-4s, sent by G-corp, attack. Heihachi and Kazuya briefly unite against them, but Heihachi is killed. Jin spares Heihachi, and a new threat emerges.

Tekken 5: Movement Overhaul

Tekken 5 | Released in 2005 | PlayStation 2

Tekken 5 focused on smoother ground surfaces for enhanced movement. With 32 base characters and the introduction of Devil Jin, the Crush System, and customizable character appearances, the game added depth. Exclusive to PlayStation, the Devil Within mode offered a beat-up experience with Jin as the playable character.

Jinpachi, fighting the devil within, starts the fifth tournament. Jin, powerful and devil-possessed, defeats Jinpachi. Controlling the Mishima Zaibatsu, Jin, and G-corp escalate tensions, nearly causing World War 3.

Tekken 6: The Online Combat Era

Tekken 6 | Released in 2009 | PlayStation 3

Tekken 6 arrived on the PlayStation 3, maintaining previous elements and introducing the Rage system. Level dynamics, wall destruction, and bound attacks expanded gameplay. The addition of online matches and co-op Story mode showcased the series’ adaptability to evolving gaming trends.

Lars, Heihachi’s illegitimate son, rebels against the Mishima Zaibatsu. Jin, seeking to rid of the devil gene, discovers Azazel. Lars and Raven defeat Azazel, but Jin’s plan to eliminate the devil gene leads to a catastrophic confrontation.

Tekken Tag Tournament 2: A Triumphant Return

Tekken Tag Tournament 2 | Released in 2012 | PlayStation 3

The sequel to the original spin-off, Tekken Tag Tournament 2 retained core rules with extended tag combos and new Tag Assaults. Various modes and a tutorial lab brought freshness to the genre, emphasizing strategic gameplay.

Tekken 7: New Horizons

Tekken 7 | Released in 2017 | PlayStation 4

Tekken 7 made a significant impact on the PlayStation 4, introducing mechanics like Rage Arts and Power Crushes for more intense battles. The inclusion of characters from external franchises added a unique twist. Tekken 7 showcased the series’ ability to stay relevant and innovative.

With Jin missing, Heihachi retakes the Mishima Zaibatsu, while Kazuya controls G-corp. Akuma arrives, seeking vengeance. Heihachi and Akuma team up against Jack-6s but turn on each other. Heihachi is killed, and Akuma vows to eliminate Kazuya. A brutal battle ensues, leading to Heihachi’s death and setting the stage for Kazuya vs. Akuma. The Mishima legacy continues, marked by treachery, demonic conflicts, and the enduring quest for power.

Tekken 8: The Future of the Iron Fist

Tekken 8 | Release in 2024 | PlayStation 5

Anticipation builds for Tekken 8, the first in the series to launch directly on PlayStation without an arcade release. Featuring the Heat System, improved graphics with Unreal Engine 5, and an emphasis on wild offense, Tekken 8 promises to continue the series’ legacy on the PlayStation 5.

In summary, Tekken’s journey through the PlayStation consoles mirrors the evolution of both the franchise and the gaming industry, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the fighting game genre. Tekken 8, with its upcoming release, is poised to carry forward this rich legacy on the PlayStation 5.

WHO IS SHE ?????

My favorite characters

My favorite characters used to be Asuka Kazama, Jack-5, Nina Williams, and “Emilie de Rochefort aka Lili” but since the beginning, my man has been Yoshimistu because when you are losing you can kill yourself like a samurai 😀

Conclusion

I will probably ski this generation or maybe I will play it later, I don’t have time, I already have a tremendous game to play even if I want to know who is Raina. But this game has become so complicated, this is a niche game, and I love this franchise but I this point, I am tired of this family who needs a psychiatrist, they keep fighting each other… And this nonsense of Devil Jinn, that’s already sound haram… I always asked myself if it is another example of a Japanese sense of humor… Djinn, Devil Gene, Devil Jinn…

I think I will just watch the TEKKEN Esports Tournament…