Summary

This article provides an in-depth look at Tekken 4, highlighting its contributions to the fighting game genre with enhanced graphics, strategic gameplay, and a rich character roster. The game’s legacy continues to influence the series and the genre as a whole.

• Release Year: 2001
• Genres: Fighting
• Platforms: Arcade, PlayStation 2
• Developers: Namco
• Publishers: Namco, Namco Hometek, Sony Computer Entertainment

Introduction

An exploration of Tekken 4, the 2001 installment of Namco’s premier fighting franchise, known for its enhanced graphics, gameplay mechanics, and expanded game modes.

Synopsis

Tekken 4, released in 2001, is the fourth main installment in the Tekken series. Developed and published by Namco, it was first released as an arcade game and later on the PlayStation 2. The game introduced significant gameplay changes from its predecessors.

The game’s plot is set two years after the third King of Iron Fist Tournament. Heihachi Mishima, the head of the powerful Mishima Zaibatsu, sponsors the fourth tournament to lure his newly resurrected son, Kazuya, into a trap. The story reveals that Kazuya has been revived following his death 20 years prior and enters the King of Iron Fist Tournament 4 to take back the Mishima Zaibatsu.

Tekken 4 introduced many gameplay revisions, such as the series-unique ability for the player to move about before the round begins and the introduction of walled stages. For the first time, it allowed players to maneuver around an arena interacting with walls and other obstacles for extra damage. These “environmental hazards” allowed players to juggle opponents for consecutive combos and allowed the designers to implement a “switch maneuver”, which let players escape from cornering and turn the tide in their favor.

There are up to twenty-three characters to choose from, including six newcomers. The game is notably the first canon game where the three major series protagonists, Heihachi Mishima, Kazuya Mishima, and Jin Kazama, appear together.

The console version of Tekken 4 includes a beat ’em up minigame available from the outset, called Tekken Force. Similar to the previous minigame found in Tekken 3, it presents the player with an over-the-shoulder perspective as they fight wave upon wave of Heihachi’s Tekken Force through four stages, eventually facing Heihachi himself.

Tekken 4 received generally favorable reviews. Community reception was initially negative, with competitive players pointing out its balancing and gameplay issues. However, in recent years, Tekken 4 has been widely praised for its innovation, atmosphere, and attention to detail.

Despite the mixed reception, Tekken 4’s influence on the series is undeniable. Its sequel, Tekken 5, was released in 2004, and the series continues to be a staple in the fighting game genre.

Characters

The game features a blend of old and new fighters, including Kazuya Mishima, Jin Kazama, Ling Xiaoyu, and newcomers like Steve Fox and Craig Marduk. Each character brings their unique style and story to the tournament.

Gameplay

Players engage in intense 3D battles, utilizing a variety of martial arts techniques and special moves. The game’s mechanics, such as walls and terrain effects, require players to constantly adapt their strategies in dynamic, multileveled arenas.

Conclusion

Tekken 4 stands as a pivotal chapter in the Tekken series, pushing the boundaries of fighting games with its innovative features and engaging character narratives. Despite some criticisms, it remains a favorite among fans and a milestone in the genre.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern