Tekken 8 Tier List (Best Characters)

Tekken 8, upon its 2024 release, delivered a much-needed gameplay and balance overhaul for the series. Over a year later, here's a comprehensive tier list of the best fighters.

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The following *Tekken 8* character tier list reflects their current standing. Factors considered include ease of use, recent balance adjustments, and overall effectiveness. Remember, this is subjective, and player skill significantly impacts performance.

S Tier

These *Tekken 8* characters boast exceptional balance, often considered "broken" due to their overwhelming offensive and defensive capabilities.

Dragunov, initially a dominant force, remains a meta pick thanks to his frame data and mix-ups. Feng's fast, low attacks and strong counter-hit potential punish opponents effectively. Jin, the protagonist, offers versatility and deadly combos, adaptable to various playstyles. His well-rounded kit and Devil Gene mechanics make him dangerous at any range. King excels with devastating grab attacks and unpredictable combos. His chain throws dominate close-range combat. Law's strong poking game and agility create traps and punishing counter-hits. Nina, though challenging to master, utilizes effective heat mode and grabs for significant damage and health elimination.

A Tier

A-tier characters are less challenging than their S-tier counterparts but remain potent and effective.

Alisa, with her android gimmicks and low attacks, is beginner-friendly and excels at applying pressure. Asuka offers solid defensive options and easy combos for newcomers. Claudio is easier to read until his Starburst state activates, dramatically increasing his damage output. Hwoarang's four stances provide diverse combos, appealing to both beginners and veterans. Jun's heat smash allows for significant health recovery and strong mix-ups. Kazuya's versatility and powerful combos reward skilled players. Kuma, often underestimated, boasts strong defense and unpredictable movements due to his size. Lars's high speed and mobility allow for effective evasion and wall pressure. Lee's strong poking game and agility exploit defensive gaps. Leo's strong mix-ups keep opponents guessing, and many of his moves are relatively safe. Lili's acrobatic style creates unpredictable combos. Raven's speed and teleportation abilities capitalize on defensive weaknesses. Shaheen, while having a steep learning curve, possesses strong, nearly unbreakable combos. Victor's technological moves adapt to various fighting styles. Xiaoyu's mobility and adaptable stances make her difficult to counter. Yoshimitsu's health siphoning and teleportation make him effective in long matches. Zafina's three stances offer excellent spacing and control.

B Tier

B-tier characters are enjoyable but can be exploited with proper counterplay. They offer a good balance of challenge and reward.

Bryan's high damage output is offset by his slow speed and lack of gimmicks. Eddy, initially considered overpowered, is now more easily countered due to his vulnerability to pressure and lack of corner carry. Jack-8 is beginner-friendly with good range, wall pressure, and throws. Leroy, nerfed since release, suffers from reduced damage and frame data issues. Paul's high damage potential requires precise positioning and stage control. Reina's strong offense is hampered by poor defense. Steve requires significant practice and is vulnerable to counterplay due to his predictable moveset.

C Tier

Panda, similar to Kuma but less effective, suffers from limited range, predictable movements, and difficult-to-execute combos.

Tekken 8 is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.