After an eight-year hiatus, the Tekken franchise is gearing up to make a grand return with “Tekken 8.” The latest installment in the iconic fighting game series is set to launch on January 26, 2024, and will be available on the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam. This release marks a significant moment for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series as they prepare to experience the next evolution of high-octane fighting action.
The Big Question: Will Tekken 8 Support Crossplay?
In the realm of modern gaming, crossplay has become a sought-after feature, allowing players on different platforms to compete against each other. For “Tekken 8,” the question of cross-platform playability has been a topic of considerable interest and speculation.
Katsuhiro Harada Speaks Out on Crossplay
Katsuhiro Harada, the game director of “Tekken 8,” has been vocal about his support for crossplay. In an April 2023 tweet, he responded to a fan’s inquiry about introducing cross-platform play in “Tekken 8.”
Harada stated, “Of course I will. When previous generation consoles were released, I had already proposed crossplay between the two platformers. However, at that time, they were at odds with each other over their mutual interests & repeatedly refused.”
Tekken 8: The Prospect of Crossplay Between Xbox and PS5
Given Harada’s comments and the historical context, it seems highly likely that “Tekken 8” will feature crossplay between Xbox and PlayStation 5 at launch. This development would represent a significant step forward in fostering a more unified gaming community.
The Uncertainty of Cross-Progression
While crossplay appears to be on the horizon, the specifics of cross-progression, such as outfit unlocks and character customizations, remain unclear. This means that players might have to stick to one platform for accumulating and maintaining their in-game progress.
Kinda like this variation of Lili's Tekken 8 costume with the shorts. Idk about the top but I definitely want to pair the shorts and boots with maybe like the T7 bomber jacket or the Summer Lesson Allison top🤔💭 pic.twitter.com/PsS6hUxi6x
— 『APO』 (@Maso_Prince) January 1, 2024
Tekken 8 PC Crossplay: A More Complex Scenario
Integrating PC into the crossplay mix presents a unique set of challenges due to the vast differences in hardware capabilities compared to consoles. However, there is optimism that PC players will not be left out of the cross-platform experience. Harada’s emphasis on “the two platformers” in his tweet might imply a primary focus on Xbox and PlayStation, but it does not categorically rule out PC.
Tekken 8 Crossplay: A Simultaneous Release Across All Platforms
The excitement builds as “Tekken 8” is confirmed to release simultaneously on PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PS5. This simultaneous launch is a testament to Bandai Namco’s commitment to providing a cohesive experience for players across all platforms.
Conclusion: A New Era of Fighting Awaits
“Tekken 8” promises to usher in a new era for the fighting game community. With the potential of crossplay, the game is poised to break down barriers between platforms, offering an inclusive and competitive environment for all players. As January 26, 2024, approaches, the anticipation for this next chapter in the Tekken saga continues to grow. Get ready to experience the thrill of “Tekken 8,” where the fight knows no bounds.
