Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Tekken delivers a deep versus fighting experience set in fully 3D arenas, allowing combatants to move freely in all directions. Players choose from a roster of eight distinctive fighters, each with a unique fighting style inspired by real-world martial arts. From the brutal power strikes of Kazuya to the lightning-fast assassination techniques of Nina Williams, every match feels fresh and strategic.

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Control mechanics in Tekken stand out for their limb-based input system: every punch and kick is mapped to a separate button. This design turns the execution of combos into a blend of instinct and deliberate planning rather than random button-mashing. As you master the timing and read your opponent’s patterns, the satisfaction of landing a flawlessly executed juggle combo becomes immensely rewarding.

The game offers three selectable difficulty levels, configurable match lengths, and a varying number of rounds. After defeating the seven rival fighters, players face two formidable bosses, further testing their skills. The slow-motion replay of finishing moves not only adds cinematic flair but also serves as a valuable tool for analyzing mistakes and refining your technique.

Graphics

For its era, Tekken’s graphics were revolutionary: fully polygonal characters animate smoothly against texture-mapped backdrops. Each fighting stage has its own visual flair, from traditional Dojo environments to neon-lit arenas, immersing you in a diverse fighting circuit. The 3D models retain a charming level of detail that holds up surprisingly well even today.

Character animations are fluid and expressive. You can see the power coil in Heihachi’s backhand strike or the graceful extension of Yoshimitsu’s katana-infused swipes. The inclusion of slow-motion finish replays not only highlights the technical prowess of the engine but also celebrates the visual impact of your most devastating moves.

Visual effects such as dust clouds on impact, dynamic camera angles during final blows, and subtle background animations contribute to a polished presentation. The user interface is clean and intuitive, displaying health meters and round timers without cluttering the screen, ensuring that the focus remains squarely on the visceral combat.

Story

Tekken’s narrative is built on a dark family drama. The powerful fighter Heihachi Mishima throws his five-year-old son Kazuya off a cliff to test his worthiness, setting into motion a tale of survival and vengeance. Rescued only by a demonic Faustian bargain, Kazuya returns years later, driven by hatred to topple his tyrannical father.

Twenty-one years after his near-fatal fall, Kazuya enters the inaugural King of Iron Fist Tournament organized by Heihachi’s corrupt Mishima Zaibatsu corporation. This blood-soaked competition provides the backdrop for Kazuya’s quest for retribution and power. While the core storyline focuses on this bitter father–son rivalry, it also introduces the tournament as a melting pot of personal vendettas.

Beyond the Mishima conflict, each fighter brings their own motivations: Nina Williams hunts her own targets, Yoshimitsu pursues justice as a cybernetic ninja, and Marshall Law seeks to hone his skills before opening a school. Though sparse by modern standards, these character vignettes add depth to each bout and encourage players to experiment with different fighters to uncover their personal stories.

Overall Experience

Tekken remains a landmark in fighting games for its perfect blend of accessibility and depth. Beginners can pick up the basic controls quickly, yet veteran players will appreciate the intricate combo system and strategic use of ring-out opportunities. The arcade-style progression keeps the adrenaline pumping as you climb through increasingly tough opponents.

Replay value is high thanks to multiple fighters, difficulty settings, and the thrill of local versus matches with friends. Each duel feels unique, driven by the strengths and weaknesses of the chosen characters. The simple yet robust mode selection means you can jump in for quick solo sessions or settle in for extended head-to-head marathons.

Overall, Tekken stands as a timeless classic that paved the way for modern 3D fighters. Its engaging mechanics, memorable roster, and dramatic backstory combine to create a package that’s as satisfying to revisit today as it was on release. Whether you’re a newcomer seeking a solid fighting game foundation or a veteran historian of the genre, Tekken delivers a compelling, enduring experience.

Retro Replay Score

7.5/10