Who is on the Tekken 8 tier list?
Not all the characters in the main roster have been unveiled, but the recent Tekken 8 closed network test has given fans a firsthand experience of the next generation of Tekken. Based on our own experience, input from fighting game streamers, and anecdotal evidence from fans, it’s time to start considering who the best characters might be. However, it’s important to note that the release date for Tekken 8 is still far off, and our opinions are based solely on our initial hands-on test with a limited roster. These rankings are bound to change significantly once all the starting characters are revealed and when Tekken 8 launches with completely rebalanced systems.
Tekken 8 Tier List:
Katsuhiro Harada, the director of the series, has stated on Twitter that “overly long combos and chip damage will be heavily tuned” in the final game. He has also mentioned toning down overly flashy effects and making many changes to the game system, including the Heat system.
Here is our Tekken 8 tier list based on our experience with the closed network test in July 2023:
S-Tier:
– Hwoarang: Hwoarang’s historically strong kick-oriented style continues to impress in Tekken 8. His versatile stances make him a constant threat, especially when combined with his excellent use of the Heat mode. He can deal decent chip damage with his wide range of combos.
– Kazuya: In capable hands, Kazuya proved to be exceptionally powerful during the closed network test. His access to highly damaging and lengthy combos, along with his punishing Heat-exclusive attacks, make him a formidable opponent and challenging to predict.
– Jun: Jun benefits greatly from the Heat system, which allows her to buff her attacks by sacrificing a small portion of her health. She retains classic moves from Tekken 2 and incorporates new techniques that align with the juggle-heavy mechanics of the series.
– Claudio: Claudio capitalized on chip damage with his safe moves, making him hard to stop. While he may not have as many options as Hwoarang, Kazuya, or Jun, he is still an excellent choice among the newer characters.
A-Tier:
– Jin: Jin is a well-balanced character who utilizes the Heat mode effectively. His snappy attacks outspeed opponents and often win clashes. While his strings are manageable on defense, he benefits from the Heat system to add more punch to his attacks.
– Asuka: Asuka offers a wide range of low and high combo options, along with counter stances and command grabs that disrupt the opponent’s momentum. Though slightly lacking in power compared to top-tier characters, her Heat Smash deals decent damage.
– King: King has the potential to be one of the best Tekken 8 characters due to his follow-up throws and aerial grabs during long combos. He suffers from unsafe opener moves on block, but his versatility in starting powerful combos compensates for it.
– Lili: Lili emerged as a popular character among players. Her unpredictable attacks can be intimidating, especially when combined with her powerful Heat Burst and Heat Smash combos. However, she is susceptible to counters, so a defensive approach may lead to a comeback.
– Paul: While Paul may be slower than other characters, his punches pack a punch. His combos may not be lengthy, but the Heat Rush helps extend them while in Heat mode. He struggles against agile opponents and lacks low-attacking options.
– Lars: Lars is a highly unpredictable character, especially for newer players. Similar to Lili, he has vulnerable attacks that can be countered if they miss. However, his Heat-based attacks pose a threat to opponents.
– Jack-8: Based on the closed network test, Jack-8 had limited exposure. He boasts powerful punches and benefits from Heat mode but lacks speed, making him vulnerable to counters. Given the current meta favoring swifter characters, he faces some challenges.
– Bryan: Bryan’s explosive punches deal significant damage and his string-based attacks can be challenging to anticipate. However, he has limited options for starting low combos, and most of his attacks are not safe on block.
B-Tier:
– Xiaoyu: Xiaoyu’s lack of well-defined new moves and combos holds her back. She was considered a lower-tier character in Tekken 7, and her fundamental gameplay hasn’t changed significantly. Perhaps future updates will enhance her moves and reduce her vulnerability in higher-risk stances.
– Nina: In the hands of skilled players like SonicFox, Nina can pose a threat. Nevertheless, even they struggled against top-tier characters. Nina’s pistols shine in extending combos and dealing significant damage. However, she relies heavily on long combos and lacks options for starting them beyond mid or high attacks.
– Law: Law’s gameplay revolves around landing kicks whenever possible, with limited punching capabilities for high-powered follow-ups. Some of his previous attacks are no longer present, and his mobility is on the lower side. Seasoned players need to devise new strategies for initiating combos.
– Leroy: Once considered one of the best characters in Tekken 7, Leroy’s new moves fail to make a significant impact compared to the rest of the roster. His power level has decreased, leaving few opportunities for follow-up combos. Leroy struggles to compete with other characters in Tekken 8.
Keep in mind that this tier list is subject to change based on the upcoming roster additions and subsequent balance adjustments to chip damage and the Heat system.
It will be a while until we can experience Tekken 8 fully…
Denial of responsibility! TechCodex is an automatic aggregator of the all world’s media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Eugen Boglaru is an AI aficionado covering the fascinating and rapidly advancing field of Artificial Intelligence. From machine learning breakthroughs to ethical considerations, Eugen provides readers with a deep dive into the world of AI, demystifying complex concepts and exploring the transformative impact of intelligent technologies.
