Tekken 8: Top Characters Ranked

*Tekken 8*, released in 2024, was seen as a crucial pivot for the series, offering improved gameplay and balance that revitalized the franchise. Over a year later, we present a detailed tier list of the game's fighters, reflecting their current standing in the competitive landscape. This list considers factors like ease of use, adaptability, and the impact of recent balance changes. Keep in mind that this tier list is subjective and influenced by individual player skills.

Tekken 8 Tier List

S Tier

Image via Bandai Namco

The S-tier characters in *Tekken 8* are often considered "broken" due to their overwhelming advantages or versatile movesets that dominate both offense and defense.

**Dragunov** quickly rose to S-tier status thanks to his strong frame data and mix-ups, remaining a meta choice despite nerfs. **Feng** leverages fast, low attacks and potent counter-hit abilities, making him unpredictable and punishing. **Jin**, the protagonist, is versatile and accessible, with deadly combos and devil gene mechanics that make him a formidable opponent at any range. **King** excels in close-range combat with his chain throws and unpredictable wrestling moves. **Law** is a formidable opponent with his strong poking game and counter-hit potential, making him difficult to approach. **Nina** offers a steep learning curve but rewards players with powerful heat mode and grab attacks that can swiftly turn the tide of battle.

A Tier

A-tier characters in *Tekken 8* are reliable and versatile, suitable for players looking to master the game's mechanics without the complexity of S-tier fighters.

**Alisa** is beginner-friendly with her array of gimmicks and low attacks, perfect for applying pressure. **Asuka** is ideal for newcomers interested in defensive play and learning *Tekken* fundamentals. **Claudio** becomes a force to be reckoned with once his Starburst state is activated, increasing his damage output. **Hwoarang** offers complexity with his four stances, appealing to both beginners and veterans. **Jun** can heal through her heat smash and has strong mix-ups, with stances that change automatically. **Kazuya** rewards players with a solid understanding of the game's mechanics, offering both long-range and close-range options. **Kuma** proved his worth at the 2024 *Tekken 8* World Tournament with strong defense and awkward movements that make him difficult to read. **Lars** excels in evasion and closing distance, with the ability to apply intense wall pressure. **Lee** has an impressive poking game and stance transitions, perfect for exploiting defensive gaps. **Leo** has strong mix-ups and safe moves, keeping opponents guessing. **Lili** uses her acrobatic style to create unpredictable combos and expose defensive weaknesses. **Raven** leverages speed and versatility, capitalizing on missed counters with stealthy moves. **Shaheen** has a steep learning curve but offers unbreakable combos and great range. **Victor** adapts to various fighting styles with his technological moves, making him a fun offensive choice. **Xiaoyu** is nearly impossible to pin down due to her mobility and stance adaptability. **Yoshimitsu** excels in long matches with health siphoning and teleportation, offering high tactical play. **Zafina** requires mastering her three stances to control the stage and deliver unpredictable mix-ups.

B Tier

B-tier characters are balanced but require more practice to compete effectively against higher-tier fighters.

**Bryan** delivers high damage and quick pressure but suffers from slow movement and fewer gimmicks. **Eddy** was initially considered broken due to his speed, but players have learned to counter his strings effectively. **Jack-8** is ideal for beginners with decent long-range attacks and strong throws. **Leroy** has lost some of his edge due to balance changes, making him easier to pressure. **Paul** deals significant damage with special moves like Deathfist but lacks agility and versatility. **Reina** is fun to play but lacks defensive capabilities, making her vulnerable at higher levels. **Steve** requires extensive practice and is easily countered, though he can be rewarding for aggressive players.

C Tier

Panda occupies the C-tier alone, primarily because she mirrors Kuma's abilities but performs them less effectively. With limited range and more predictable movements, Panda struggles to keep up with the rest of the roster.

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