The Tekken series has long been a staple in the world of fighting games, known for its fast-paced combat, intricate character design, and deep lore. With the release of Tekken 7, Bandai Namco breathed new life into the franchise, offering enhanced graphics, updated mechanics, and new characters. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the series, Tekken 7 provides an immersive experience that keeps players coming back for more.
What is Tekken 7?
Tekken 7 is the ninth installment in the Tekken series and was released in 2015 in arcades and later in 2017 for home consoles and PC. The game serves as the conclusion of the long-running Mishima family feud, one of the central plot points of the series. Tekken 7 not only brings closure to this storyline but also introduces new characters and gameplay features that make it stand out from its predecessors.
Key Features of Tekken 7
1. Story Mode
One of the most celebrated aspects of Tekken 7 is its engaging story mode. The game’s narrative focuses on the intense rivalry between Kazuya Mishima and his father, Heihachi Mishima. As the conflict unfolds, players are introduced to new revelations and twists that deepen the lore of the Tekken universe. The story mode seamlessly integrates cutscenes with battles, providing a cinematic experience that is both engaging and action-packed.
2. Character Roster
Tekken 7 boasts a diverse roster of over 30 fighters, each with unique fighting styles, moves, and story arcs. Longtime fan-favorites like Jin Kazama, Yoshimitsu, and Nina Williams return, alongside newcomers like Claudio Serafino, Kazumi Mishima, and Akuma, a crossover character from the Street Fighter series. Each character offers a distinct playstyle, ensuring that players can find a fighter that suits their preferred approach to combat.
3. Gameplay Mechanics
At its core, Tekken 7 retains the classic 3D fighting mechanics that fans love, but with new additions that enhance the gameplay experience.
- Rage Art: When a player’s health drops below a certain threshold, they can execute a powerful special move known as a Rage Art. These devastating attacks can change the course of a match, offering a thrilling comeback opportunity for players on the verge of defeat.
- Rage Drive: An alternative to Rage Art, Rage Drive allows players to perform a powerful, enhanced version of a normal move. This feature adds a layer of strategy, as players must decide whether to unleash a Rage Art or opt for a more tactical approach with Rage Drive.
- Power Crush: This mechanic allows players to absorb damage while executing a move, provided it is not a low attack. Power Crush adds a risk-reward element to the game, enabling aggressive playstyles.
New Characters in Tekken 7
One of the most exciting aspects of Tekken 7 is the introduction of new characters, each bringing fresh fighting styles and unique abilities to the roster.
1. Kazumi Mishima
Kazumi, the wife of Heihachi and mother of Kazuya, plays a crucial role in the storyline. She is a practitioner of Hachijo Karate and can summon a tiger during combat, making her one of the most formidable opponents in the game.
2. Claudio Serafino
Claudio is a member of an ancient order tasked with exorcising demonic entities. He wields a fighting style based on his mastery of Exorcist Arts and uses his “Sirius Magic” to enhance his attacks.
3. Shaheen
A new fighter from Saudi Arabia, Shaheen employs a military-inspired fighting style called “Khopesh.” He is a highly technical character, offering players a balance of agility and power.
4. Akuma
Akuma is a special guest character from Capcom’s Street Fighter series, marking one of the most significant crossovers in Tekken history. With his signature “Hadouken” projectile attacks and devastating combos, Akuma feels familiar to Street Fighter fans while fitting seamlessly into Tekken 7‘s gameplay.
Tekken 7 in Competitive Play
Tekken 7 has become a major title in the esports scene, appearing at prestigious tournaments like Evo (Evolution Championship Series) and the Tekken World Tour. The game’s balanced mechanics, coupled with its diverse character roster, make it a favorite among professional players and casual fans alike.
1. The Tekken World Tour
The Tekken World Tour is an annual esports competition where the best players from around the globe compete for a chance to become the world champion. The tournament has contributed significantly to the game’s popularity, drawing large crowds both in-person and online.
2. High-Level Strategies
Professional players employ a wide range of strategies in Tekken 7, including precise spacing, combo execution, and mind games. Learning advanced techniques like “wave dashing” or “Korean backdashing” is crucial for those looking to compete at a higher level. However, the game remains accessible, offering fun and rewarding gameplay even for those unfamiliar with advanced tactics.
Tekken 7’s DLC and Updates
Since its release, Tekken 7 has received several DLC (Downloadable Content) updates, expanding the game with new characters, stages, and customization options.
1. Season Passes
Bandai Namco has introduced multiple season passes that add additional characters to the game, such as Geese Howard from Fatal Fury, Noctis Lucis Caelum from Final Fantasy XV, and Negan from The Walking Dead. Each character comes with their own unique moveset and storyline, keeping the game fresh for long-time players.
2. Customization
Players can personalize their fighters with a wide variety of outfits, accessories, and even custom effects for moves. The extensive customization options allow players to create a truly unique look for their favorite characters, adding a personal touch to the gameplay.
Conclusion
Tekken 7 is a masterpiece of the fighting game genre, offering a rich and engaging experience for players of all skill levels. With its deep story mode, diverse character roster, and polished gameplay mechanics, it’s no wonder that Tekken 7 remains one of the most popular titles in the fighting game community. Whether you’re drawn to its cinematic storytelling, intense competitive scene, or simply enjoy the thrill of fast-paced combat, Tekken 7 is a game that continues to stand the test of time.
If you haven’t yet experienced the world of Tekken 7, now is the perfect time to jump in and discover why this game is a favorite among fighting game enthusiasts worldwide.
