The upcoming update for Tekken 8, scheduled for March 31, has stirred the pot in the gaming community with its changes to throws, adding chip damage to throw breaks—something that’s caught players off guard. This adjustment has left many feeling frustrated and puzzled, especially after director Katsuhiro Harada’s previous indications of a defensive shift in Season 2.
During the March 23rd “Tekken Talk Live,” fans were introduced to the upcoming DLC fighter, Anna Williams. A beloved character from the series, she’s set to enter the stage once more on April 3. However, those with the Character Year 2 Pass can tag her in a bit early, starting March 31—the same day Season 2 kicks off.
Additionally, Bandai Namco rolled out plans for the new season, unveiling a comprehensive roadmap that outlines several enhancements: the Pac-Man 45th anniversary stage, free DLC from the Atelier Yumia collaboration, and a host of returning DLC characters available for purchase. Yet, the good news was somewhat overshadowed by the controversial throw mechanic change. Now, even if players manage to break a throw, they’ll still suffer some chip damage, challenging those adept at timing to find new ways to evade these moves.
This announcement didn’t sit well with everyone. Players quickly took to platforms like Reddit to voice their displeasure. Despite the chip damage being minor, the principle of being penalized for successfully defending a throw doesn’t sit right with many, leading to a broader conversation about whether this aligns with the promise of bolstering defensive strategies.
In the aftermath of the Tekken Talk Live, there’s an air of skepticism, with some players feeling a disconnect from Harada’s direction and questioning how this aggressive play style will affect the competitive scene this season. However, it’s essential to note that several changes remain undisclosed, leaving room for potentially positive updates balancing the controversial throw adjustments.
As Tekken 8 gears up for an eventful Season 2, which is slated to unfold throughout 2025, fans can anticipate a myriad of updates and character releases, including the final DLC character and stage slated for winter. As the game features prominently at EVO 2025 alongside other popular titles like Street Fighter 6 and Guilty Gear Strive, its competitive framework will likely evolve, especially as character balance tweaks continue to trickle in and the roster expands further.
