Summary

  • Tekken 8 will be released in January and will feature a 32-character roster that includes both fan-favorites and new faces.
  • The game introduces the Heat system, which has changed gameplay dynamics but still retains familiar elements.
  • The game's cast ranges from a variety of Mishima family members to an eclectic cast of allies, enemies, and third parties.

Tekken 8 launches in January and is set to continue to dominate the world of 3D fighting games, with its 32-character base roster being one of the most impressive in any modern release. With all of its starting fighters already confirmed, fans are gearing up to pick characters old and new when Tekken 8 finally releases.

While it may be ditching the guest characters of Tekken 7, the latest Tekken roster still includes most of the fan-favorites while bringing in a few fresh faces as well. Most of the cast’s gameplay has been revealed, but all of their new bios are available. Tekken 8’s introduction of the Heat system has changed everything, but many game plans have stayed relatively intact.

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Kazuya Mishima

Cold-Blooded Oppressor

A Tekken 8 screenshot featuring Kazuya Mishima as he readies himself for battle.
A Tekken 8 screenshot featuring Kazuya Mishima as he readies himself for battle.

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken (1994)

None

Mishima-Style Fighting Karate

Kazuya has returned in his most power-hungry iteration yet as he seeks to dominate the entire world alongside his G Corporation. His damage has now been bolstered alongside new moves like Parricide Fist and his Devil form has become his Heat state.

Jin Kazama

Lightning of Fate

Close-up screenshot of Jin Kazama in Tekken 8
Tekken 8 Jin Kazama Close-up

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken 3 (1997)

Japan

Karate

Seeking to end the Devil Gene and his father Kazuya, Jin still repents for his actions in Tekken 6. Known as a defensive fighter who requires strong fundamentals, his new moveset has more of a focus on stronger offense instead and even evokes Devil Jin.

King

Anger of the Beast

Tekken 8 King of Kings

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken (1994),

Tekken 3 (1997) as King II

Mexico

Professional Wrestling

King is needed by the children in his care more than ever after events surrounding G Corporation's world domination. King benefits from changes like better tracking on his throws, but loses out on some of his previous combo ability.

Jun Kazama

Light of Hope

Jun Kazama Facts- Tekken 8 Return

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken 2 (1995)

Japan

Kazama-Style Traditional Martial Arts

The mother of Jin who canonically disappeared back in Tekken 3, Jun has now mysteriously returned. She has a unique mechanic that sees certain moves costing her own HP and Heat state circumventing this loss.

Paul Phoenix

Hot-Blooded Destroyer

Paul Phoenix's new look was front-and-center in the latest trailer for Tekken 8.

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken (1994)

USA

Integrated Martial Arts Based on Judo

Paul has gone broke despite his veteran fighter status and seeks to earn money from the latest tournament. With several new moves enhancing his already offensive approach, he’s a powerhouse of committal attacks.

Marshall Law

The Legendary Dragon

Tekken 8 Marshall Law

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken (1994)

USA

Martial Arts

Fallen into destitution via a downward spiral, Law has joined up with Paul to split their potential tournament earnings. With new moves like his nunchucks and a simpler overall execution, he’s more accessible than ever.

Jack-8

High Tech Annihilator

Tekken-8-Jack-8

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken (1994) as Jack,

Tekken 8 (2024) as Jack-8

Unknown

Sheer Force

G Corporation’s signature weapon, the latest in the Jack series is equipped with unprecedented firepower. Historically a simple character to play, his moveset changes and new Gamma Howl stance provide more depth.

Lars Alexandersson

The Lion of the Rebellion

Lars Alexandersson Reports Back in Tekken 6

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken 6: Bloodline Rebellion (2008)

Sweden

Tekken Force Martial Arts

Heihachi’s illegitimate son, Lars and his Yggdrasil rebel army have teamed up with Jin to take down Kazuya. With better routes for his Entry-related moves that get enhanced greatly by Heat state, the loss of some wallsplats and launchers isn’t too detrimental.

Ling Xiaoyu

Dancing Phoenix

tekken-8-ling-xiaoyu
Ling Xiaoyu in Tekken 8

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken 3 (1997)

China

Baguazhang, Piguazhang-Based Chinese Martial Arts

After searching for the missing Jin for months, Xiaoyu is even more determined to find him. Known to be a challenging character to master, she is still capable of some of the best okizeme follow-up.

Nina Williams

Silent Assassin

tekken 8 - nina williams screenshot

First Appearance

Country

Fighting Style

Tekken (1994)

Ireland

Assassination Arts

A professional killer veteran of the series, Nina now serves as Kazuya’s commander. Losing many of her launchers and combo extenders, she is now more focused on direct strings and gained gun attacks.