Summary
- Release Year: 1997
- Genres: Fighting
- Platforms: Arcade, PlayStation
- Developers: Namco
- Publishers: Namco, Namco Hometek, Sony Computer Entertainment
Tekken 3: A Revolutionary Force in the Fighting Game Genre
Released in 1997, Tekken 3 was a groundbreaking fighting game that pushed the boundaries of the genre with its stunning graphics, innovative gameplay mechanics, and memorable characters. It was the first Tekken game to be released on the PlayStation, and it quickly became one of the most popular and critically acclaimed games on the console.
Enhanced Graphics and Animations
One of the most striking things about Tekken 3 was its visuals. The game featured highly detailed character models and backgrounds, with fluid animations that brought the characters to life. The use of 3D graphics allowed for a more immersive and realistic fighting experience, and the game’s visuals still hold up well today.
Expanded Roster and Gameplay
Tekken 3 introduced a roster of 23 characters, including 15 new additions to the series. Each character had their own unique fighting style and moves, giving players a wide range of options to choose from. The game also introduced a new emphasis on the third axis of movement, allowing characters to sidestep in or out of the background. This added a new layer of depth and strategy to the gameplay.
Innovative Gameplay Mechanics
Tekken 3 introduced several innovative gameplay mechanics that would become staples of the series. These included:
- Tekken Force: A beat ’em up minigame that pitted the player against waves of enemies.
- Tekken Ball: A volleyball-like minigame where players used powerful attacks to hit the ball at their opponent.
- Wall Combos: Combos that could be extended by hitting the opponent against the wall.
- Chain Throws: Throws that could be chained together for increased damage.
These new mechanics added a lot of variety and depth to the gameplay, and they helped to make Tekken 3 one of the most exciting and innovative fighting games of its time.
Critical and Commercial Success
Tekken 3 was a critical and commercial success. It received rave reviews from critics, who praised its graphics, gameplay, and roster. The game was also a huge commercial success, selling over 8 million copies worldwide. Tekken 3 is widely considered to be one of the greatest fighting games of all time, and it is still played by many fans today.
Legacy
Tekken 3 had a profound impact on the fighting game genre. Its innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning graphics set a new standard for fighting games, and it inspired many other games in the genre. Tekken 3 also helped to popularize the PlayStation console, and it is considered to be one of the most important games in the history of the PlayStation brand.
Conclusion
Tekken 3 is a masterpiece of the fighting game genre. Its stunning graphics, innovative gameplay mechanics, and memorable characters made it one of the most popular and critically acclaimed games of its time. Tekken 3 is still played by many fans today, and it remains one of the most influential fighting games of all time.
Review Score
9.5/10