The latest TEKKEN 8 Patch 1.08.01 introduces several exciting changes to the game, with a focus on new content, character balance adjustments, and online competition improvements. The release of Heihachi Mishima is the highlight of the patch, along with other additions like a new stage and story episode.
Heihachi Mishima Joins TEKKEN 8
The legendary fighter Heihachi Mishima is back! His release dates are as follows:
- Sept. 30 — Early Access for Playable Character Year 1 Pass owners.
- Oct. 3 (North America) and Oct. 4 (Japan, Europe) — Full release.
New Story Episode: Unforgotten Echoes
A brand-new story episode, Unforgotten Echoes, has been added to TEKKEN 8. It focuses on Heihachi Mishima, Lidia, and Eddy Gordo, providing deeper insights into their narratives. This episode is accessible even if you don’t own the DLC characters or stage.
New Stage: Genmaji Temple
Genmaji Temple is the latest stage in TEKKEN 8, available for purchase in the shop. Unlike the previous free DLC stage Sea Side Resort, this one comes at a cost, which has led to some disappointment within the community. In response, game director Katsuhiro Harada publicly apologized for the decision to sell stages.
- Cost of Genmaji Temple: $4.99, even for players with the Ultimate Edition and the Playable Character Year 1 Pass.
TEKKEN 8 Fight Pass – Round 3
Update 1.08.01 also introduces Fight Pass Round 3, featuring a variety of cosmetic items such as costumes, poses, and avatar customizations. Completing special missions allows players to progress through the tiers, with the Premium tier offering extra rewards.
New Shop Items
The game shop has also received new purchasable content:
- Character Costume Packs: Grim Reaper Pack and Seductive Pack.
- Customization Items: Gentle Monster Inferno and Crocodile Leather Top Hat.
Character Adjustments in TEKKEN 8 1.08.01
While the developers have planned to nerf strong characters like Dragunov, these changes have been delayed to the next update.
However, in Patch 1.08.01, characters with standout performances have had their effectiveness slightly reduced without drastic changes to their behavior. The major rebalance is expected in the upcoming Patch 1.09, focusing on tracking performance and hit effects.
Matchmaking and Gameplay Features
Patch 1.08.01 includes several adjustments aimed at improving the online experience:
- New Aerial Combo feature for Special Style players, activated after a successful parry of a low attack.
- Adjusted rank points in Ranked Matches, ensuring fairer progression and matchmaking based on rank differences.
- Expanded search range for matchmaking in both Ranked and Quick Matches, speeding up the process in regions with fewer players.
Conclusion
TEKKEN 8 Update 1.08.01 brings a host of exciting content with the return of Heihachi Mishima, new stages, and story episodes. The character rebalances and matchmaking changes aim to improve the competitive experience, with major nerfs expected in the next patch.
While the community has mixed feelings about purchasable stages, the overall reception of the update is positive.
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