Hey guys! Let's dive into a comprehensive review of the Tekken 7 Original Edition. For fighting game enthusiasts and newcomers alike, Tekken 7 has been a cornerstone of the genre, blending intricate mechanics with a compelling roster and stunning visuals. In this article, we’ll break down what made the original release special, examining its gameplay, characters, modes, and overall appeal. Whether you're a seasoned Tekken player or just curious about this iconic title, this review will provide you with a detailed look at what to expect.

Gameplay Mechanics

Tekken 7's gameplay is where it truly shines, offering a blend of accessibility for new players and depth for veterans. The core mechanics revolve around a four-button control scheme, with each button corresponding to a limb: left punch, right punch, left kick, and right kick. This simplicity allows newcomers to quickly grasp the basics and start stringing together simple combos. However, beneath this accessible surface lies a complex system of movement, frame data, and character-specific techniques that provide endless opportunities for mastery.

One of the key elements of Tekken 7 is its emphasis on movement. Unlike some other fighting games that prioritize zoning or projectile play, Tekken 7 encourages players to get up close and personal. Sidestepping, back dashing, and forward dashes are crucial for positioning and avoiding attacks. Mastering these movement techniques is essential for creating openings and punishing opponents' mistakes. The game rewards aggressive, calculated play, making each match a dynamic and engaging experience.

Another important aspect of the gameplay is the frame data. Each move in Tekken 7 has a specific number of frames for its startup, active, and recovery phases. Understanding frame data allows players to predict and counter their opponents' moves effectively. While it may seem daunting at first, learning the frame data for your favorite characters can significantly improve your gameplay and give you a competitive edge. Various online resources and training modes are available to help players delve into this aspect of the game.

Tekken 7 also introduces new mechanics such as Rage Arts and Rage Drives. Rage Arts are powerful, cinematic attacks that can be used when a player's health is low. These moves can turn the tide of battle, providing a last-ditch effort to secure a win. Rage Drives, on the other hand, are enhanced versions of existing moves that can be used to extend combos or apply pressure. Both Rage Arts and Rage Drives add an extra layer of strategy to the game, forcing players to think carefully about when and how to use them.

Overall, Tekken 7's gameplay mechanics are well-designed and offer something for everyone. Whether you're a casual player who enjoys mashing buttons or a competitive player who wants to master the intricacies of the game, Tekken 7 provides a satisfying and rewarding experience. The depth and complexity of the gameplay ensure that there's always something new to learn and discover, making it a game that you can play for years to come.

Character Roster

The character roster of the Tekken 7 Original Edition is a vibrant mix of returning favorites and exciting newcomers. Each character boasts a unique fighting style, personality, and backstory, adding depth and variety to the game. Whether you prefer aggressive rushdown characters, defensive turtles, or tricky mix-up specialists, there's a character to suit every playstyle. Let's take a closer look at some of the standout characters in the game.

Returning characters like Kazuya Mishima, Heihachi Mishima, and Paul Phoenix are iconic figures in the Tekken universe. Kazuya, with his powerful Devil Gene abilities, is a force to be reckoned with. His hard-hitting attacks and imposing presence make him a popular choice for players who like to dominate their opponents. Heihachi, the patriarch of the Mishima family, is known for his brutal fighting style and unwavering determination. His mix of traditional karate and powerful throws makes him a formidable opponent. Paul Phoenix, with his explosive personality and devastating Death Fist, is a fan favorite for his raw power and unpredictable moves.

New characters like Claudio Serafino, Katarina Alves, and Lucky Chloe add fresh blood to the roster. Claudio, with his mysterious exorcist abilities, brings a unique blend of offense and defense to the game. His Starburst mechanic allows him to enhance his attacks and unleash devastating combos. Katarina, a practitioner of Savate, is a fast and agile fighter who excels at quick strikes and evasive maneuvers. Her fluid movements and relentless pressure make her a challenging opponent to deal with. Lucky Chloe, with her energetic personality and dance-inspired fighting style, is a polarizing but undeniably fun character to play. Her unique moveset and unpredictable attacks can catch opponents off guard.

In addition to the main roster, Tekken 7 also features several guest characters from other franchises. Akuma from Street Fighter brings his signature Hadoken and Tatsumaki Senpu-kyaku to the Tekken arena, blending seamlessly with the game's mechanics. Geese Howard from Fatal Fury adds his calculated and methodical fighting style to the mix, offering a more defensive and strategic approach to combat. These guest characters not only add variety to the roster but also provide exciting crossover matchups for fans of both franchises.

Overall, the character roster of Tekken 7 is one of its strongest assets. The diverse range of characters ensures that there's always someone new to try and master. Whether you're a fan of classic Tekken characters or eager to explore the newcomers, the game offers a wealth of options to suit your individual preferences and playstyle. Tekken 7's character depth keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging, making it a game that you can keep coming back to.

Game Modes

Tekken 7 Original Edition offers a variety of game modes to cater to different playstyles and preferences. Whether you're looking for a competitive challenge, a story-driven experience, or a way to hone your skills, Tekken 7 has something for everyone. Let's take a closer look at some of the key game modes.

The Story Mode in Tekken 7 focuses on the epic conclusion of the Mishima family saga. The story follows the intertwined fates of Heihachi Mishima, Kazuya Mishima, and Jin Kazama as they clash in a final, devastating battle. The story mode features a mix of cinematic cutscenes and intense battles, providing a compelling narrative that delves into the complex relationships and motivations of the characters. While the story mode may be shorter compared to some other fighting games, it offers a satisfying conclusion to the Mishima saga and provides valuable insights into the lore of the Tekken universe.

Arcade Mode is a classic staple of the Tekken series. In this mode, you choose a character and fight through a series of opponents, culminating in a final boss battle. Arcade Mode is a great way to practice your skills, experiment with different characters, and unlock character-specific endings. The difficulty of Arcade Mode can be adjusted to suit your skill level, making it accessible for both new and experienced players.

Versus Mode allows you to challenge your friends or other players online in head-to-head battles. This is where Tekken 7 truly shines, offering a competitive and engaging experience that can keep you coming back for hours. The online mode features a robust matchmaking system that pairs you with players of similar skill levels, ensuring fair and challenging matches. You can also create custom lobbies to play with your friends or participate in online tournaments to test your skills against the best players in the world.

Practice Mode is an essential tool for improving your gameplay. This mode allows you to practice combos, experiment with different moves, and analyze frame data in a controlled environment. Practice Mode features a variety of options to customize your training, such as setting the opponent to block, crouch, or jump. You can also record your own actions and replay them to identify areas for improvement. Whether you're a new player learning the basics or a seasoned veteran refining your techniques, Practice Mode is an invaluable resource for mastering Tekken 7.

Treasure Battle is a fun and rewarding mode where you fight against AI opponents to earn in-game currency and unlock customization items. These items can be used to personalize your characters with different outfits, accessories, and hairstyles. Treasure Battle is a great way to earn rewards while honing your skills and experimenting with different characters. The mode features a variety of challenges and special encounters, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Tekken 7 Original Edition stands as a monumental achievement in the fighting game genre. Its intricate gameplay mechanics, diverse character roster, and variety of game modes provide a rich and rewarding experience for players of all skill levels. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Tekken series or a newcomer looking for a challenging and engaging fighting game, Tekken 7 is a must-play title. The game's depth and complexity ensure that there's always something new to learn and discover, making it a game that you can enjoy for years to come. So, grab your controller, choose your favorite character, and get ready to enter the King of Iron Fist Tournament! You won't regret it!Tekken 7 is an incredibly solid and enjoyable fighting game, and it is easily one of the best in the series! What do you think? Let us know in the comments!