Tekken fans will be excited to know that the popular mini-game, Tekken ball, will return in the highly-anticipated Tekken 8. This nostalgic feature first appeared in Tekken 3 and later in Tekken Tag Tournament 2 Wii U edition. Additionally, Bandai Namco has announced a closed beta test for Tekken 8. The test will take place exactly one month from now, from October 21 to October 24.
The closed beta test of Tekken 8 will be available on all platforms, including Xbox Series X and Series S, PlayStation 5, and PC. It will further include cross-play support for the duration of the test and will feature 19 playable characters. This consists of the 16 previous characters in the Closed Network Test in July, alongside Raven, Feng, and a newcomer, Azucena. This also marks the return of the fan-favourite character, Feng, who was introduced 19 years ago in the franchise.
The beta will feature three main modes: Ranked Match, Quick Match, and Battle Tutorial. The Fight lounge will also be accessible, a lobby where players can interact with each other and experience the new features and modes. However, the Tekken Ball mode won’t be playable just yet.
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Tekken ball is a mode where players use their fighting skills to hit a ball back and forth, trying to deplete their opponent’s health bar by either landing the ball on their side of the court or hitting them directly. The ball can be charged with each strike, increasing its speed and damage until it catches fire and burns the opponent. Players can choose from different types of balls, each with varying damage and properties.
Bandai Namco confirmed that Tekken Ball is placed inside the new Tekken Fight Lounge, but it isn’t a part of the closed beta test. Tekken 8 is set to release on January 26, 2024. Fans who pre-order the game will receive a bonus avatar costume set that allows them to become Paul Phoenix. The game will also have a deluxe edition, an ultimate edition, and the Premium Collector’s Edition, including additional playable characters, avatar skins, character costumes, and more.
