The unique Tekken was Namco’s first try at a 3D preventing recreation, and boy did it present. There was simple potential on the 1995 title’s core, however the recreation as an entire was extremely uncooked, each on a visible and mechanical degree. It wasn’t till Tekken 2 that the now record-breaking franchise would discover its footing.
The 1996 sequel improved on every part that it presumably may, and immediately grew to become a landmark PS1 launch. Having mentioned that, taking part in Tekken 2 now, over 25 years later on the time of writing, is a poignant reminder of simply how far preventing video games have come — Tekken particularly.
There’s nonetheless enjoyable available with Tekken 2 these days — and having nostalgia for it definitely helps — however there is no denying how wonky it’s when it comes to mechanical and character stability. Tekken 7 is described as a ‘excessive injury’ preventing recreation, however it’s acquired completely nothing on Tekken 2, the place sure single-hit strikes and easy combos soften well being bars in seconds. It is tough, to say the least.
However there’s an endearing high quality to old fashioned Tekken, a portal to an easier time for preventing video games. Even at this early stage in its evolution, the character roster is stuffed with character, and assaults have a satisfying smack to them, full with pixelated blood results.
After all, it was Tekken 3 that really took the collection above and past, however it’s nonetheless straightforward to see why Tekken 2 was a giant deal again in 1996. In its visible fashion and its wonderful soundtrack, Namco had established an identification for one thing fairly particular.
