Let me preface this by saying I haven't played online due to Fatal Errors. However. I will add my thoughts once everything is good!

From the days in 1995 to run down the hill to pop quarters in the machine at the pizza shop, to getting this as one of my first games on PlayStation 1 for Christmas the same year. Tekken has always been in my top 5 in fighting games. The clash of fist, heaviness of kicks, and the rumbling of throws have made this a mainstay for most of us in the FGC. Fast forward to 2024, and Tekken 8 has graced us with its presence, proving once again that the Mishima family dysfunction is the gift that keeps on giving.

Graphics: 10/10 - Seriously, Just Take My Eyes!

Tekken 8 is a visual feast – it's so stunning that even your character's jaw would drop if it could. From the flawless character models to the mesmerizing stages, the attention to detail is like a meticulously crafted sushi roll. Perfection.

Story: 15/10 - Jin's Daddy Issues - The Sequel We Needed!

I cant give too much without spoiling the story. However, I can say that this game is a love letter for us Jin fans. Finally, our brooding protagonist takes center stage, dealing with more Daddy issues than a therapist on speed dial. However there is more growth in his character beyond that as well as a journey to redemption. The story kept me wondering what happens next. It also made me need Tekken 9 ASAP! final battle? Oh, it's like a chef's kiss via kick to the jaw but with added drama and martial arts action.

Gameplay: 9/10 - Punch, Kick (its all in the mind), and Unleash the Pandemonium!

As always there is your traditional Tekken style gameplay with you left and right punch/kick buttons. A new addition is new Special Style mechanic which you can change on the fly. This is similar to the modern controls in Street Fighter 6. When active you have buttons for specialty moves, air combos, power crush, low attacks, and Heat Smash. This feature will make it easy to play with those who want to play but are into fighting games or that little cousin that comes over who uses the 3rd party Mad Catz controller (Bonus points if you know the one). Rage Arts make a return which are the amazing super moves that only activate during low health. They are gorgeous to see and very powerful. In addition to Rage Arts, Tekken 8 introduces the new Heat Smash feature which is the successor to Rage Arts. Think of it like a baby version that you can use when needed. Heat allows you to unlock new moves, do chip damage, extend combos, and heal some health. It utilizes the Heat Gauge which allows up to 3 uses, but once its depleted you can no longer use it that round.

Another decent feature is the Arcade Quest mode which allows you to learn your characters while pushing the difficulty up bit by bit. Training mode has combo challenges, punishment training, and save states which allows you to play out certain scenarios to learn how to best deal with them.

Music: 10/10 -Beats as Strong as a Roundhouse Kick!

The soundtrack of Tekken 8 is a musical journey that rivals a mixtape made by a DJ with a black belt. Menu music sucked me in as much as the piano music from 7. The Character Select Theme took me for a ride like MVC2. Arena and Yakushima are two of the best. Pave your Path is another good one! There were many throwbacks thrown in as well like Snow Castle from Tekken 5 DR. You can also choose which music to set for the game in the jukebox menu which is a nice thing to have.

Conclusion: Tekken 8 - A Knockout, Literally!

Don’t just walk, run! Tekken 8 is a masterpiece that demands to be in your gaming collection. If you spot a friend playing, don’t be shy – demand a tag-in, even if it means using Parsec for remote play. And hey, if you have a fighting game fanatic in your life, surprise them with Tekken 8 - it's the gift that keeps the punches rolling and brings fire to old rivalries.

This is a must-buy for Tekken fans and a definite addition to the FGC. Embrace the chaos, and let the Mishima drama unfold in all its glory!