Bandai Namco has confirmed the return of two popular fighters in Tekken 8, complete with fresh and trendy new looks. These characters were unveiled in a showcase of every fighter previously introduced in Tekken 8’s story and gameplay trailer from The Game Awards 2022. More character gameplay trailers have since been released, revealing additional returning and new characters for the launch roster which we’ve been posting about and keeping you up to date.
Fan Favourite Characters Return
Tekken 8’s returning characters include not only fan favourites like Paul Phoenix, Jack-8, and King, but also Ling Xiaoyu, a veteran of the series since her debut in Tekken 3. Along with her close friend and possible love interest Jin Kazama, Ling Xiaoyu has become a staple of the franchise. Bandai Namco has also revealed two other returning characters: one familiar face and one relative newcomer introduced in Tekken 7 more recently.
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Asuka Kazama, a character introduced in Tekken 5 as Jin Kazama’s cousin, makes a return as one of the franchise’s fan-favorite fighters. Initially, Asuka played a pivotal role in Jin’s story, being one of the few characters who could potentially help him deal with the Mishima bloodline and the Devil Gene. However, her importance waned in later games. Like her predecessors, Asuka utilizes the same martial arts style as the Kazama family, evident from the many shared moves between them. With Jun Kazama returning after a decade to the playable roster, Tekken 8 marks the first time all three members of the Kazama bloodline, including Jun, Jin, and Asuka, have been present in a mainline Tekken game’s roster.
The Return Of Leroy Smith
The second returning character is none other than Leroy Smith, an African American Wing Chun master known for his stylish exciting moves. He was so popular among fans that even the famous rapper T-Pain cosplayed as him before he was included as a downloadable content fighter in the last game. Tekken 8 refers to him as the “Grandmaster of Drip,” and his moveset is as flashy as his appearance. Many have praised his Rage Art, which incorporates the famous “One-Inch Punch” technique. In Tekken 8, he is presented even better than in the previous game, with attention given not only to his outfit but also to his moves.
What do you think of the two new additions, any good? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think and who you want added before the games release this year on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.