Since July of last year, it has been known that Heihachi Mishima is set to make a grand return in Tekken 8, and there could be no other character for this role; he is simply irreplaceable within the Tekken saga. Following the initial announcement and some introductory images, it is now time for the development team to reveal how Heihachi has evolved. For example, we learn that he now possesses two new stances: Thunder God and Wind God, which can be used at specific points in a match, allowing access to precise attacks. Additionally, Heihachi can transform through Warrior Instinct, an enhanced state where he can enter Heat mode three times. This ‘Warrior Instinct’ ability enables him to inflict more significant damage on his opponents and recover health, alongside the inclusion of extra moves in his move set. It may seem like an unfair advantage compared to other characters, but this special treatment is what makes Heihachi the ultimate character in the saga. For instance, Heihachi’s ax kick, already a formidable tool for pressuring opponents, gains additional follow-ups when Warrior Instinct is activated. However, since Heat mode can only be used once per round, you will only see Heihachi’s full potential in longer matches.
Heihachi will arrive with the new arena, the Genmaji Temple, an isolated location within a beautiful forest where Tekken Monks train daily. Note that there are variations of the stage depending on the time of day. Heihachi Mishima will become available at the same time as the new update scheduled for October 3, 2024, on PS5. Early access will begin on September 30 for those who pre-ordered the game. You now have all the details.
Excited to learn more about the latest additions to Tekken 8? Carlos Mendoza over at Players for Life has detailed the inclusion of Feng, a Tai Chi specialist, in the game’s launch roster on January 26, 2024. Bandai Namco Entertainment also announced that players can experience Feng during the upcoming closed beta from October 20-23, 2023, across multiple platforms. Dive into the intricacies of this new character and explore how he fits into the evolving Tekken saga by checking out his full profile Tekken 8: Feng to be Included, New Closed Beta as Well. While we eagerly await Heihachi Mishima’s return and the captivating new features in Tekken 8, it’s worth noting that the full game won’t be available until January 24, 2024. Sophie Laurent delves into this development over at Players for Life (August 22, 2023), exploring how Bandai Namco Entertainment has strategically delayed the release to ensure Tekken 8 dominates the early months of next year. The blog also highlights an exciting multiplayer hub that offers avatar customization and tutorial modes, making it a welcoming experience for newcomers. Check out her insightful piece Tekken 8: Will Have to Wait Until 2024 to Play, Avatars Like Mii to learn more about these upcoming changes and the game’s promising future direction. Exciting news for Tekken fans: At EVO 2023, Bandai Namco Entertainment revealed two new additions to the roster—Raven and Azucena (from Peru). Raven, a seasoned ninja who has been part of the series since Tekken 5, brings back his dynamic fighting style alongside a new ally. Meanwhile, Azucena’s arrival from Peru promises an intriguing mix of agility and cultural flair, potentially setting up a classic rivalry with Lili. For all the details on these newcomers, be sure to check out Sophie Laurent’s post Tekken 8: Raven and Azucena (from Peru) Unleash Gameplay Trailers at EVO 2023 published on August 6, 2023.
