Tekken 3

  • Genres: Fighting
  • Platforms: PlayStation, Arcade
  • Studios: Sony Computer Entertainment, Namco Hometek, Namco
  • Release Date: 03/22/1997

Experience the hilarity of dodging and jumping in Tekken 3

Step into the ring and get ready for a wild ride with Tekken 3, a game that took the fighting genre by storm. This installment in the Tekken series brought a plethora of improvements and added elements that made it one of the most beloved games in the franchise.

One of the most noticeable changes in Tekken 3 was the revamped movement system. Gone were the days of simple sidesteps and jumps that defied gravity. Now, players had more control over their fighters as they could sidestep in and out of the background by lightly pressing on the arcade stick. No more flying above all ground moves with superhuman jumps, as jumps were toned down to more realistic heights. This made air combat more strategic and added a new layer of depth to the gameplay.

The improved engine also brought about faster and more fluid gameplay. Characters could now recover quickly from knock-downs, making the fights more intense and dynamic. Escaping tackles and stuns became easier, giving players more options to counter their opponents. And the addition of newly created combo throws opened up even more possibilities for devastating combos. It was a game-changer that kept players on their toes and added a fresh twist to the franchise.

But it wasn't just the gameplay that made Tekken 3 stand out. The game also introduced two hilarious mini-games that provided endless hours of entertainment. The first was "Tekken Force," a beat 'em up style game where players had to battle enemies in various side-scrolling stages. Successfully completing this mini-game four times would unlock the lovable Dr. Bosconovitch as a playable character. Who wouldn't want to throw down with an eccentric scientist?

The second mini-game, "Tekken Ball," took inspiration from beach volleyball and added a twist. Players had to hit a ball with a powerful attack to hurt their opponent or strategically aim for their opponent's area to cause damage. It was a wacky and enjoyable addition to the game, perfect for some lighthearted fun between intense fights.

Tekken 3 also boasts a roster expansion with fifteen new characters joining the fray. From the spiky-haired Jin Kazama to the enigmatic Ling Xiaoyu, players had a diverse set of fighters to choose from, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. This increased roster added a fresh breath of life to the game and kept players coming back for more.

Of course, it wouldn't be Tekken without stunning visuals, and Tekken 3 delivered on that front as well. The graphics received a significant upgrade, with more detailed character models and animations. The environments were beautifully rendered, immersing players in stunning backdrops while engaging in intense battles. And the more modern music accompanying the fights enhanced the overall experience, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already electrifying game.

Tekken 3 proved to be a stepping stone for the franchise, setting the bar higher for future installments. Its innovative gameplay, hilarious mini-games, expanded roster, and captivating visuals made it a fan favorite and a game that still holds up to this day. Whether you're a long-time Tekken fan or new to the series, Tekken 3 is a must-play for any fighting game enthusiast.

So dust off those arcade sticks or grab your controllers, because Tekken 3 is waiting to take you on an unforgettable journey through the world of fighting games. Get ready to laugh, strategize, and unleash devastating combos as you battle your way to victory. It's time to enter the ring and show the world what you're made of.