TEKKEN 1
Release date: 1994 Platforms: Arcade, PS1
The first game in the series, TEKKEN introduced a unique fighting system that combined 3D movement with traditional 2D fighting game mechanics.
It featured a diverse cast of 18 playable characters, each with their own unique fighting styles and storylines,
as well as a popular arcade mode that allowed players to challenge a series of opponents to receive character-specific story endings.
TEKKEN was a huge success in arcades and eventually received several console ports, cementing its place as one of the most influential fighting games of all time.
TEKKEN 2
Release date: 1995 Platforms: Arcade, PS1
Building on the success of the original game, TEKKEN 2 introduced a number of new playable characters and improved graphics.
It also expanded on the game's storyline and introduced several new modes, such as a survival mode and a time attack mode.
TEKKEN 2 was another critical and commercial success, becoming one of the best-selling games of the early Playstation era.
TEKKEN 3
Release date: 1997 Platforms: Arcade, PS1
Considered by many to be the pinnacle of the series, TEKKEN 3 introduced several major changes to the gameplay,
including a faster and more fluid fighting system and the unique sidestepping mechanic.
The third installment added several new characters, as well as several new modes, including a TEKKEN Force mode that allowed players to explore various stages and fight against hordes of enemies.
TEKKEN 3 was a massive commercial success and is still widely regarded as one of the best fighting games ever made.
TEKKEN 4
Release date: 2001 Platforms: Arcade, PS2
The first TEKKEN game to be released on the PlayStation 2, TEKKEN 4 was a significant departure from the previous games in the series.
TEKKEN 4 introduced breakable environmental pieces, as well as uneven terrain, which added a new level of strategy to matches.
The game had a lot darker and grittier atmosphere than previous games and as such received mixed reviews from fans and critics,
with some enjoying the "new TEKKEN" and others finding it too different from previous installments.
TEKKEN 5
Release date: 2004 Platforms: Arcade, PS2
TEKKEN 5 was a return to form for the series, with a focus on refined gameplay mechanics and an expanded roster of characters.
The game introduced "Devil Within", a top-down beat-em-up gamemode featuring the main character Jin Kazama.
In addition, it also included many new moves and character customizations, letting players give their gameplay a personal touch.
Overall, TEKKEN 5 marked a significant improvement and evolution of the series, building upon the previous games' successes and setting new standards for future fighting games.
TEKKEN 6
Release date: 2007 Platforms: Arcade, PS3, Xbox 360
TEKKEN 6 introduced a number of new features to the franchise, like the Scenario Campaign, a fully fledged story campaign surrounding Lars Alexandersson and Alisa Bosconovitch.
It also introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as the "bound" system that allowed players to juggle opponents for more significant combo damage.
TEKKEN 6 improved upon the customization options from TEKKEN 5 even further, and for the first time allowed players to bring their customized characters into online play.
TEKKEN 7
Release date: 2015 Platforms: Arcade, PC, PS4, Xbox One
Tekken 7 introduced several new features, including Rage Arts and Rage drives, powerful moves that can be used when a character's health is low,
as well as Power Crush moves that allow a character to absorb their opponent's attack while continuing their own.
The game also features a new "Screw Attack" mechanic that replaces the previous "Bound" system, allowing players to perform longer juggle combos.
All-in-all, Tekken 7 offered a polished and enjoyable fighting game experience that appealed to both casual and competitive players alike.
TEKKEN 8
Release date: TBA Platforms: Arcade, PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S
Tekken 8, announced at 2022 EVO, features a new "heat gauge" system that aims to bring out the personalities and unique characteristics of each character.
It also introduces a new "flip" mechanic to replace the "bound" and "screw" systems from previous games.
According to series producer Katsuhiro Harada, the focus of the game will be on offense, promising a more aggressive gameplay style for players.
As of now, further details about the game remain undisclosed.