Tekken 8 brings back the long-awaited fan-favorite mode that has been missing for over a decade

Tekken 8 will signify the return of the beloved Tekken Ball mini-game among fans, after an absence of almost a decade. The upcoming installment in the long-standing Tekken series aims to steer things in a newer, more aggressive direction, thanks to its traditionally groundbreaking Heat Systems and unique style inputs. Simultaneously, it pays homage to the previous games with a diverse selection of returning fighters and a narrative that continues the legendary feud of the Mishima family.

While the main story of Tekken is a dark one, characterized by betrayal, corruption, and bloody wars among relatives, the series still offers plenty of levity in the form of comedic characters and mini-games like the popular Tekken Bowl and the hidden Galaga arcade shooter from the original Tekken. One such mode was Tekken Ball, a volleyball-like alternative mode where players attempt to inflict damage on each other by hitting a ball back and forth. It was first introduced in Tekken 3 in 1998 and only made another appearance in the Wii U version of Tekken Tag Tournament 2.

According to a recent post on the PlayStation Blog, Tekken Ball is making its triumphant comeback after nearly 11 years as part of the new Fight Lounge in Tekken 8. Players can head to a designated beach area where they can play Tekken Ball against computer-controlled opponents or other players online. The objective of Tekken Ball in Tekken 8 remains the same as in Tekken 3: opponents hurl a massive beach ball at each other using martial arts attacks, hoping to hit and inflict damage. Unfortunately, Tekken Ball will not be available during the upcoming closed beta testing phase of Tekken 8 on October 20th.

Tekken Ball is not the only activity players can engage in within the Fight Lounge of Tekken 8, which serves as a virtual lobby akin to Street Fighter 6's Battle Hub. Here, players can create custom avatars, chat with other players using emotes, test their skills in the Tekken Dojo, and arrange online matches. Tekken 8 also introduces a new Arcade Quest mode, which recreates the sensation of playing Tekken 8 in a stationary arcade against AI-controlled opponents that adapt to the player over time.

With the introduction of new game modes and features in Tekken 8, the game also pays homage to past installments by bringing back long-awaited mini-games like Tekken Ball from Tekken 3. This entertaining variation of the usual Tekken combat has not been seen since 2012, and its inclusion in Tekken 8 will be a delight for fans who have been with the franchise since its humble beginnings on the original PlayStation.

Tekken 8 is set to be released on January 26, 2024, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.

Source: PlayStation.blog (via PlayStation Lifestyle)