The Tekken franchise is so much more than just action and combat. The game series is packed with complex story arcs that continue to hook fans three decades after it was first released.
As a newbie, it is easy to forget that each character in the game plays an important role. Each of them has their own story arc that weaves with one other. Bandai Namco, the series' developer, is focused on unveiling each story arc from one game to another.
If you are new to the Tekken world, here are some canon story arcs from the game that you should know:
Heihachi Mishima vs. Kazuya Mishima
The deep-rooted storyline of Tekken is centered on the battle between the father Heihachi Mishima and his son Kazuya Mishima. Both struggle in the relationship after Heihachi deliberately pushes Kazuya on a cliff as a test.
The revenge plot of Kazuya is always highlighted in every sequel of the game. Heihachi also has issues with his father while Kazuya also faces challenges with Jin, his son.
In Tekken 7, fans saw the demise of Heihachi after Kazuya finally defeated his father. Kazuya settles his rule over the Mishima Zaibatsu by the end of the game. However, Bandai confirmed that Heihachi will be making a comeback in Tekken 8.
Jin Kazama's Battle
Jin is considered one of the most popular characters in the game. His storyline is centered on redemption and facing his inner demons. Despite his blood rights to the Mishima Zaibatsu, he rejects his heritage in Tekken 4 after defeating Kazuya and Heihachi.
Jin will discover that he has Devil Gene, resulting in his popular alter ego, Devil Jin. In Tekken 6 and 7, he finally embraces his darker side and continues to struggle with it.
The King of Iron Fist Tournament
The ongoing series of tournaments is popularly known as "The King of Iron Fist Tournament." The fighting tournament serves as the backdrop of the Tekken storyline where each character fights against each other.
Each tournament brings fighters from different regions of the world. Over time, players are introduced to their motivations and story arcs. Their connection to the Mishima family's operations is also revealed.
Nina Williams vs. Anna Williams
The feud between the two Williams sisters is one of the longest-running conflicts in the series. Both sisters are trained assassins which both contributed to their rivalry since childhood.
In each sequel, the sisters will always fight against each other's principles. Anna always tries to stop Nina's mission. She also seeks revenge for her sister's past. As of Tekken 7, both sisters are still far from reconciling despite several opportunities hinted in the game.
Lars' Revenge Against Mishima Zaibatsu
Lars is one of the recently introduced characters in the franchise. He is the illegitimate son of Heihachi and the leader of the rebel group Yggdrasil.
Despite his connections to the Mishima Zaibatsu, he continues his rebellion against Jin in Tekken 6 and Kazuya in Tekken 7.
