Summary
Tekken 5 revitalizes the series with its enhanced combat mechanics, character customization options, and a storyline that continues the epic Mishima saga. It’s celebrated for its contribution to the fighting game genre and its lasting impact on the Tekken series.
- Release Year: 2004
- Genres: Fighting
- Platforms: Arcade, PlayStation 2
- Developers: Namco
- Publishers: Namco, Sony Computer Entertainment
Introduction
Tekken 5 is a landmark entry in the iconic fighting game series by Bandai Namco, heralding a return to form with its refined mechanics and graphical improvements. It continues the saga of the Mishima family feud while welcoming newcomers to the fray.
Synopsis
The game is set shortly after the events of Tekken 4. The King of Iron Fist Tournament 4 concluded with a face-off between three generations of the Mishima family – Heihachi Mishima, Kazuya Mishima, and Jin Kazama – in Hon-Maru. Jin ultimately defeated his grandfather and father and fled the temple in his devil form.
Shortly afterwards, numerous Jack-4 robots deployed by G Corporation crash through Hon-Maru’s walls and attack. Kazuya and Heihachi begin fighting as a team against the robots. During the battle, Kazuya escapes after betraying Heihachi and throwing him into the path of the robots. While Heihachi is restrained, the robots self-destruct, destroying Hon-Maru. A mysterious character, Raven, watches the scene from a nearby cliff.
Meanwhile, Jin Kazama’s Devil Gene causes him to lose control. He blacks out shortly after fleeing Hon-Maru and wakes up in a destroyed forest. He realizes that his devil form caused the destruction. Jin retreats to Yakushima, but is plagued by nightmares that trigger his Devil Gene. Realizing he cannot go on like this, he sets out to try and destroy the evil at its root.
The King of Iron Fist Tournament 5 is announced by the Mishima Zaibatsu. With Heihachi Mishima believed dead, it is unclear to the competitors who has called the competition. Jin enters the tournament and makes it to the final round, where he is confronted with the monstrous form of his great grandfather, Jinpachi Mishima. Jinpachi was imprisoned beneath Hon-Maru 44 years ago by Heihachi and has been possessed by a malevolent entity.
The gameplay of Tekken 5 is akin to the formula previously seen in Tekken 3, while it takes certain features that were introduced in Tekken 4. The game was released during the 10th anniversary of the series, and so the PlayStation 2 port came with an Arcade History mode where the arcade versions of the original trilogy are emulated and playable. The home version of Tekken 5 also came with new character customization options and a mini-game called Devil Within.
Characters
Tekken 5 features a vast lineup of fighters, including series staples like Jin Kazama, Kazuya Mishima, and Ling Xiaoyu, as well as new entrants such as Asuka Kazama, Feng Wei, and Raven. Each character comes with a unique backstory and fighting style.
Gameplay
The gameplay in Tekken 5 builds upon its predecessors, offering a fluid and responsive fighting system. Players can customize their characters with various accessories and costumes, enhancing the personalization of the roster. The game also introduces destructible objects and obstacles within stages, adding complexity to matches.
Conclusion
With its engaging mechanics, rich character customization, and compelling storyline, Tekken 5 remains a high point in the Tekken series, offering both veterans and newcomers a deeply rewarding fighting game experience.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
Fan Art
Fan Art Style: Normal
Fan Art Style: Retro
Fan Art Style: Modern
