Tekken 8 Trailer Reveals First Look at Fan Favourite Kuma

Key Highlights:

• New Tekken 8 gameplay trailer spotlights classic fighter Kuma the bear
• Shows off Kuma’s revamped look including jean jacket and red bandana
• Highlights new moves like devastating strikes with a giant salmon
• Kuma proposes to Panda but gets rejected, their unrequited love continues
• 32 launch characters confirmed including 3 brand new fighters
• DLC plans potentially leaked showing returning favourites
• Kuma previously served Heihachi Mishima, who is absent so far

The latest character trailer for Bandai Namco’s hotly anticipated fighting sequel Tekken 8 shines the spotlight on classic beastly brawler Kuma. The footage offers a first glimpse of the bear’s overhauled design and moveset arriving when the game launches in January 2024.

Outfitted for the Brawl

Kuma’s updated outfit sports rugged flair including a jean jacket and red bandana. His archetypal hard-hitting but short-ranged fighting style also incorporates new techniques such as forcefully slapping foes using a massive salmon. But despite learning fresh tricks, Kuma’s most memorable moments remain his humour and charm.

Same Old Crush

Another highlight of the trailer involves Kuma once again attempting to propose to his unrequited love interest Panda, only to face harsh rejection. Their long-running comedic relationship endures into this latest entry, much to fans’ delight. However, Kuma’s former master Heihachi Mishima has yet to be announced as a playable character.

Stacked Starting Lineup

The starting roster encompasses 32 fighters including series mainstays like Jin, Law, and Yoshimitsu along with 3 brand new entrants like the charming Victor Chevalier.

There are a lot of returning characters too, some of which haven’t been seen in the series for a number of years. One that instantly springs to mind is Feng Wei, who hasn’t been seen in over 19 years but makes a comeback in this latest entry.

Though Heihachi is mysteriously absent, his sinister ongoing plans still permeate the story backdrop. And while unconfirmed, leaked DLC information suggests fan favourites like Roger, Xiao, and Eddy Gordo may return post-launch.

More Tekken 8 Content:

• Story, Arcade Mode Detailed, Launching January 2024
• Shaheen Gameplay Trailer
• Showcases Returning Boxer Steve Fox

With its hard-hitting combos and absurd antics, Kuma exemplifies the Beat ‘Em Up’s one-of-a-kind personality. And his updated appearance and techniques underscore Bandai Namco’s commitment to honouring tradition while continually innovating. So get ready to bear witness when Tekken 8 brings the pain this January.