Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Tekken 5 returns to the series’ fighting roots with a streamlined combat system that balances depth and accessibility. The diverse roster, including five brand-new fighters, offers a wealth of playstyles, from the ruthless Mishima-style brawling of Kazuya and Jin to the acrobatic artistry of newcomers like Raven. Combos flow smoothly, while timing and positioning remain critical—every match feels like a thrilling tug-of-war between careful defense and explosive offense.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

One of Tekken 5’s standout additions is the “Devil Within” sub-mode, a platforming-meets-beat-’em-up adventure starring Jin Kazama. This mini-campaign allows players to explore branching paths in G Corporation’s shadowy fortress, fighting cyborgs and uncovering hidden lore. It injects a welcome change of pace between the standard arcade ladder and the versus battles, giving a taste of single-player exploration that few fighting games attempt.

Customization also takes center stage in battle. Earned currency from fights can be spent on colored outfits, alternate costumes, and a quirky selection of accessories—from pirate hats to jetpacks. While these items don’t affect move sets, they boost engagement by letting players craft a unique look for each character. It transforms the grind for wins into a creative endeavor, rewarding persistence with both style and bragging rights in online or local bouts.

Finally, Tekken 5 reduces the experimental stage gimmicks of its predecessor, returning to more conventional arena layouts. This decision enhances competitive clarity: walls, slopes, and interactive traps give way to wide, unobstructed arenas where spacing and footsies truly shine. The result is a fighting experience that feels both familiar to series veterans and inviting to newcomers eager to master its finely tuned engine.

Graphics

On PlayStation 2 hardware, Tekken 5 represents one of the console’s graphical high points. Character models boast crisp textures, detailed musculature, and expressive facial animations that react dynamically to strikes and taunts. Subtle lighting effects lend a cinematic sheen to every punch and kick, while particle effects like sparks, dust, and blood spray heighten the visceral impact of powerful strikes.

Backgrounds have been refined from the warped, multi-story arenas of Tekken 4 to more grounded, visually coherent stages. Whether battling in a sunlit forest temple or a neon-lit industrial warehouse, each arena feels carefully designed to complement the action without overwhelming it. The tighter layouts keep the focus on fighters, ensuring that every movement and counter-attack remains crystal clear, even in the heat of battle.

Performance is remarkably stable, with matches running at a consistent 60 frames per second and maintaining resolution without noticeable slowdown. This smoothness is crucial for timing-based combos and defensive maneuvers, giving both casual players and tournament hopefuls the confidence that what they see is what they get. In split-screen versus mode, the frame rate holds strong, ensuring no player is disadvantaged by graphical hiccups.

Customization items also shine graphically, adding splashes of color and personality to the roster. A simple palette swap can turn a stoic fighter into a carnival of hues, while elaborate accessories—like glowing devil wings or mechanical arm braces—show off the game’s impressive rendering capabilities. For collectors and completionists, unlocking every costume variant becomes a visual reward that extends the game’s lifespan.

Story

The narrative of Tekken 5 picks up in the aftermath of the explosive finale of Tekken 4, where G Corporation’s assault nearly exterminated the Mishima bloodline. G Corp’s military helicopters and cybernetic soldiers laid siege to the Mishima residence, leading to Kazuya’s dramatic betrayal of his father, Heihachi. Presumed dead, Heihachi’s fate hangs in the balance as the world speculates on the Zaibatsu’s next move.

Despite the chaos, the Mishima Zaibatsu resurfaces under undisclosed leadership and announces the Fifth King of the Iron Fist Tournament. Both Kazuya and his son Jin enter the fray, each driven by personal vendettas and overshadowed by the looming threat of G Corp. The arcade mode weaves character-specific endings into this larger tapestry, giving every fighter a stake in the tumultuous power struggle.

The “Devil Within” mode delves deeper into Jin Kazama’s psyche, exploring his internal conflict and his own clandestine mission against G Corp’s cyborg armies. These sequences bridge the gap between arenas, providing narrative context for Jin’s quest and fleshing out the mysterious circumstances of Heihachi’s disappearance. Although not as cinematic as a fully voiced cutscene, the mode’s atmospheric level design and in-game dialogue snippets craft a surprisingly engaging side story.

While Tekken is not traditionally lauded for its plot complexity, Tekken 5 strikes a fine balance between background lore and fight-driven spectacle. Fans of the Mishima saga will appreciate the steady progression of the family feud, and newcomers can dive into the tournament premise without wading through dense exposition. The concise storytelling ensures every battle feels motivated by real stakes, keeping the adrenaline high until the final showdown.

Overall Experience

Tekken 5 represents a triumphant return to form for the long-running franchise. By refining its combat mechanics, polishing its visuals, and offering a variety of modes—both classic and experimental—it delivers a well-rounded package that appeals to diverse audiences. Whether you’re chasing leaderboard glory, enjoying couch duels with friends, or exploring Jin’s solo adventure, there’s always something fresh to experience.

The game’s blend of competitive depth and casual accessibility makes it an ideal choice for both seasoned fighters and newcomers alike. Tutorials and practice modes ease beginners into the system, while advanced mechanics like wall combos and character-specific juggles provide layers of mastery for veterans. The customization features further extend replay value, encouraging players to unlock costumes and items long after they’ve learned every combo.

Even over two console generations later, Tekken 5’s design philosophy remains relevant: tight controls, clear visuals, and a robust roster of personalities ensure that each match feels meaningful. Its enduring presence in arcades and home consoles speaks to the timeless appeal of its core formula. For anyone seeking a fighting game that balances nostalgia with modern polish, Tekken 5 stands as a shining example.

Ultimately, Tekken 5 isn’t just a strong entry in the series—it’s a definitive statement on how to refine and revitalize a beloved franchise. With its refined gameplay, high-fidelity graphics, engaging sub-modes, and compelling tournament narrative, this installment offers a complete fighting experience that continues to hold up as a benchmark for the genre.

Retro Replay Score

8.3/10