Controversial Changes Introduced in Tekken 8 Season 2 Update

The latest update for Tekken 8 set to roll out on March 31 is already stirring up quite a buzz in the player community, specifically over a new tweak to throws. With the Season 2 update, throws will start to inflict chip damage, even if they’re successfully broken. This decision has left a sizable part of the community frustrated and scratching their heads, especially since many feel it goes against the earlier vow of offering more defensive tools in this season.

The discussion over this tweak heated up after Katsuhiro Harada, the game’s director, shared his insights during the March 23 “Tekken Talk Live.” Players’ response? They’re not all too pleased, with some voicing their concerns and questioning Harada’s moves for this season.

The live stream also spotlighted upcoming releases, including the return of the beloved character, Anna Williams, slated to rejoin the Tekken 8 cast on April 3. Owners of the Character Year 2 Pass will get a sneak peek, accessing her on March 31 when Season 2 kicks off. Bandai Namco further treated fans to a sneak at the freshly revised Season 2 roadmap. It teased delightful additions like a celebratory Pac-Man 45th anniversary stage, a free Atelier Yumia crossover DLC, and a lineup of returning characters popping back via paid DLC. However, it’s hard to ignore the noise around the throw changes — a move that’s leaving seasoned players questioning the game’s competitive dynamics, as a broken throw would still see you taking some damage unless you entirely dodge it.

Post-announcement, players like Xanek have been vocal, taking to platforms like Reddit to air their grievances. Even with the chip damage from broken throws being minimal, many players believe the change undermines the reward system for those who play defensively and master the timing to counter throws. The thought that this chip damage does little to commend defensive play is a sentiment shared by a lot of folks in the community.

There’s definitely a ripple of doubt spreading among the community, shaking some players’ confidence in Harada and his commitment to amplifying defensive maneuvers in the game. Adding fuel to the fire, some worry that the aggressive play dynamic being pushed might end up impacting the community and competitive play negatively as Season 2 progresses. But in fairness, there’s hope yet that unexplored facets of the Season 2 update could introduce promising changes to balance the scales.

Tekken 8’s Season 2 is going to keep us on our toes until the end of 2025. The last drop from the DLC buffet, including stages and characters, is expected to hit sometime in the winter. Plus, Tekken 8 is in the lineup for EVO 2025 alongside contenders like Street Fighter 6 and Guilty Gear Strive, and keen eyes will be watching how the meta morphs with upcoming balance updates and fresh character reveals.