We know it’s incredibly dumb to talk about “Game of the Year” discussions before January even ends, given that so many games are coming out this year that could change the conversation. We do remember how a certain title “came out of nowhere” to win many GOTY awards in 2023, right? Just saying. But we’re bringing this up because Tekken 8 had its review embargo dropped, and it’s standing tall with a Metacritic score of 90! That will turn heads and get many wondering what made critics love it so much and whether they should check it out themselves.
So, what are the critics saying about the title? Well, many said that Bandai Namco further stepped up its game to deliver the gaming title that many have wanted and deserved. By that, they specifically called out how well the game is constructed so that gamers can have fun across all modes and be inclined to play the title for a long time. Multiple reviews noted that you won’t be left out even if you’re new to the franchise. One even stated that Bandai Namco made it perfect for new players to join in and that this is the “next-gen standard” for gamers on how to make a fighting title, no matter the experience level.
Regarding the story, many praised it and stated that gamers will be engaged by it. Sure, it may not be the most “original” story you’ve ever watched unfold, but that was never the point. This is the continuation of a story long built up, and it apparently reaches a good conclusion.
And for those who don’t care about the story as much and want to see just how fun the gameplay is, you won’t be disappointed. Multiple reviews praised the new “Heat” system, which amped up the intensity of the fights to an incredible degree, adding more depth and nuance to an already great battle system.
Another thing they were sure to praise was the next-gen graphics of Tekken 8. The Bandai Namco team noted many times over that they wanted to use the power of the PS5 and Xbox Series X to bring out the most from their title, and everyone agrees that they did just that. Everything looks crisp and smooth, and you’ll see every bruise and wound you inflict on opponents.
Whether it ends up being a GOTY contender is moot right now because when it arrives on January 26th, fans will want to use their fits to punch fate.
