Understanding Attack Buttons

Tekken uses four attack buttons, each corresponding to left punch, right punch, left kick, and right kick. These are labeled as 1, 2, 3, and 4. Using directional inputs combined with these buttons allows access to all moves. For example, pressing forward + 1+2 with Jin executes his double chamber punch. By combining buttons and directions, you can perform special attacks or complex moves, like Jin’s JY 214 sequence.

Some moves also require specific movements, such as holding an arrow direction. For instance, Jin’s forward, forward + 2 requires holding the second forward input. Movement adds depth to your options, including dashing, side-stepping, crouching, and jumping, each opening unique opportunities in combat.

Attack Types and Frame Data

There are three main types of attacks:

1. High Attacks: Can be ducked but blockable while standing.
2. Mid Attacks: Hit crouching opponents and are blockable standing.
3. Low Attacks: Hit standing opponents and are blockable while crouching.

Why use high attacks if they can be ducked? The answer lies in frame data, a critical mechanic in Tekken. The game runs at 60 frames per second, meaning a move with a 10-frame startup takes one-sixth of a second to execute. Faster moves often beat slower ones, which is why understanding frame data is key to controlling the pace of a match. High attacks tend to be faster and give better frame advantages, making them effective tools in your arsenal.

Frame advantage determines whose “turn” it is after a move is blocked. A move that’s plus on block lets you act before your opponent, while moves that are minus on block leave you vulnerable to counterattacks.

Movement: The Key to Victory

Movement in Tekken is as much an offensive tool as it is defensive. Backdashing allows you to create distance while remaining safe, and sidestepping avoids linear attacks, opening opportunities for punishment. Advanced techniques, like Korean backdashing, let you chain backdashes together for high-level mobility. Start by mastering two backdashes in a row, and work your way up to faster and more consistent movement.

Rage and Heat: New Mechanics

When your health drops below 25%, your character enters a Rage State, indicated by glowing flames. This grants increased damage and access to a powerful move called a Rage Art. Rage Arts can turn the tide of a match but must be used strategically as they are unsafe on block.

Tekken 8 introduces the Heat System, where a blue gauge below your health bar allows you to activate a Heat State. This state increases pressure by dealing gray health damage, enhances specific moves, and unlocks new abilities. Activate Heat using either:

1. Heat Burst: A fast and armored activation, ideal for combo extensions or defense.
2. Heat Engager: Specific moves that extend the duration of the Heat gauge, giving more time to apply pressure.

Once in Heat, you can use Heat Smash or Heat Dash for massive damage or extended combos. Always aim to utilize your Heat Gauge effectively in each round.

Building a Game Plan

Start by choosing a main character based on their aesthetics, style, or ease of use. Spend time learning their key moves and a basic combo. For example, Jin’s core moves include:

• Jab (1): A fast, plus-on-block attack to set up mix-ups.
• Down 2 or Hell Sweep: Effective low attacks to punish stand blocking.
• Forward 4, 2: A mid attack that also acts as a Heat Engager.

Combine these moves to create a simple but effective strategy. Use jabs to control space, low attacks to punish standing blocks, and mid attacks to punish crouching. Add movement, like backdashing and sidestepping, to avoid attacks and create whiff-punish opportunities.

Expanding Your Skills

Once comfortable with the basics, focus on improving other areas:

• Optimal Punishment: Learn which moves to punish with and their appropriate timing.
• Combo Optimization: Refine your combos for maximum damage and consistency.
• Defensive Techniques: Practice low parries, throw breaks, and recognizing mix-ups.

Watch high-level players, study their strategies, and adapt them to your own gameplay. Tekken rewards creativity and experimentation, so don’t hesitate to try new things and adjust your game plan as you progress.

Final Tips

Tekken is a complex and endlessly rewarding game. Take it one step at a time. Start with simple game plans and focus on learning something new from each match, whether it’s a new move, a punish, or a way to deal with a troublesome strategy. With time and practice, your efforts will add up, and you’ll climb the ranks of Tekken 8 players.

Stay consistent, enjoy the process, and embrace the journey. Good luck, and see you on the battlefield!