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Tekken 7, the latest installment in the long-running fighting game franchise, finally unites players across PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. This 20th-anniversary celebration of iron fists and family feuds promises a return to form, boasting updated graphics, new mechanics, and a roster of 38 characters. But does it deliver a knockout blow, or is it just a tired contender clinging to past glories?

Tekken 7 – GameplayAlt: Tekken 7 gameplay screenshot showcasing two characters battling in a detailed environment.

Familiar Fists: Classic Tekken Gameplay

Tekken’s core gameplay has remained remarkably consistent over its two-decade lifespan. The series innovated the fighting game genre with its 3D movement, allowing players to sidestep and maneuver around opponents, adding a layer of tactical depth beyond the traditional 2D plane. The control scheme, focusing on individual limb inputs rather than the standard “light, medium, heavy” attacks, remains a unique hallmark. Each button corresponds to a specific limb, allowing for intricate combinations and a high skill ceiling.

Tekken 7 builds upon this foundation, incorporating new mechanics like Rage Art, Screw, Rage Drive, and Power Crush. Rage Art functions similarly to Ultras in Street Fighter or Max Mode in King of Fighters, unleashing a cinematic flurry of attacks. Screw attacks add new juggling opportunities, allowing for extended combos after a grounded opponent is hit. Rage Drive offers enhanced versions of special moves, adding tactical options without the cinematic flair of Rage Art. Power Crush allows players to absorb hits while continuing their attack, creating opportunities for aggressive counterplay.

Tekken 7 – Rage ArtAlt: Tekken 7 screenshot displaying a Rage Art cinematic sequence, highlighting the game’s visual effects.

Content Shortcomings: A Shallow Single-Player Experience

While Tekken 7 delivers a satisfying core fighting experience, its single-player offerings are disappointingly shallow. Unlike recent fighting games like Injustice 2, which boast extensive story modes and replayable content, Tekken 7’s single-player mode primarily consists of standard arcade battles against AI opponents. This feels like a step back for the series, as previous entries offered more engaging single-player modes and unlockable content. The story mode itself is brief and underwhelming, failing to capitalize on the rich lore and character dynamics that define the Tekken universe.

Lack of Innovation: Sticking to the Formula

Another weakness lies in Tekken 7’s adherence to its established formula. While the core gameplay remains solid, it lacks the significant mechanical innovations seen in other fighting game franchises like Street Fighter, King of Fighters, or Guilty Gear Xrd. Players familiar with previous Tekken titles will find little new to learn, which can feel stagnant for those seeking a fresh experience.

Tekken 7 – Character SelectAlt: Tekken 7 character select screen showcasing the diverse roster of fighters available in the game.

The new characters introduced in Tekken 7 also fail to make a lasting impression. While the inclusion of Street Fighter’s Akuma was intended to spice things up, his implementation feels underwhelming. Akuma’s fighting style clashes with the grounded realism of Tekken, and his translation into the game’s control scheme feels clunky and unsatisfying.

Conclusion: A Solid Fighter, But Not a Knockout

Tekken 7 delivers a solid fighting game experience with its refined mechanics and classic gameplay. However, its lackluster single-player content, lack of significant innovation, and underwhelming new characters hold it back from true greatness. While longtime fans will likely enjoy the familiar fisticuffs, those seeking a truly groundbreaking fighting game experience may be left wanting.

Information:

• Developer: Bandai Namco Studios
• Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
• Genre: Fighting
• Release Date: June 2, 2017
• Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One

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Tested System Requirements:

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• SSD: N/A