Tekken 8 Meta Overview

Heat, aggression and refined movement.

Tekken 8 introduces the Heat system, recoverable health and more aggressive mechanics compared to its predecessor. The game rewards proactive offence while still punishing poor defence.

Heat & Aggression

Heat Burst and Heat Engagers activate a powered‑up state where chip damage and special extensions become available. Use Heat to extend combos or maintain pressure, but don’t waste it randomly. Recoverable health can be regained by attacking; stay offensive when safe to avoid losing HP to chip.

Fundamentals Carry Over

Movement, whiff punishment and okizeme remain vital. Learn to backdash and sidestep to bait whiffs. Rage Arts are still present; use them sparingly when guaranteed. Characters fit into similar archetypes as Tekken 7 but some tools have changed.

Progression

Beginners should learn simple combos and movement. Intermediate players should incorporate Heat routes and manage recoverable health. Advanced players refine spacing, conditioning and punishment, integrating Heat strategically to secure rounds.