By Nermeen Nabil 
Heihachi Mishima, one of Tekken’s most recognizable characters, is returning in the latest update which will be launched on 3rd October. The new update, version 1.08, introduces Heihachi as a new playable character along with a new stage and story content expansion. Players who pre-order gain early access from September 30th.
Moreover, the latest update features Unforgotten Echoes, a story episode that adds new plot developments tied to the ongoing conflict in the Tekken universe. Players can access the new content without paying for the DLC since the new story will be provided for free to all Tekken 8 players.
Heihachi returns in Tekken 8’s new DLC, launching October 3.
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Heihachi unleashes new moves and powers in Tekken 8
Heihachi is back with his staple attacks like the Wind God Fist. However, Heihachi also possesses new abilities including two new stances, Thunder God and Wind God, that allow for new combat strategies. The character also has a special ability where he can switch to a state called Warrior Instinct, which unlocks extra skills and improves his fighting performance.
In Warrior Instinct, Heihachi’s power increases after being triggered three times, allowing him to create Damage Buffs and additional special moves. Players will be able to use this mechanic once per round, which means strategic planning is required to maximize Heihachi’s potential in late-game situations. Equally, the axe kick, one of the Heihachi’s signature moves, has new follow-up actions when Warrior Instinct is deployed.
Kohei Ikeda, the director of Tekken 8, explained that new mechanics to Heihachi were developed taking into consideration his survival through the story, insisting that, his increased in-game strength had to be redeemed by making him learn some lost secret of the Mishima Style.
Genmaji Temple Stage and new story episode unfold in Tekken 8
The update also includes the Temple of Genmaji, a new stage centered on Heihachi’s return. The stage takes place in a secluded forest temple with a training ground that showcases the newly introduced Takken Monks practicing martial arts. The stage has variations depicting daytime and dusk, with specific details like the shedding of leaves which symbolizes the change of seasons as per the developers.
Moreover, the October 3 update also brings several other features to Tekken 8 in addition to Heihachi and the new story episode. A customizable home screen will be available to players, along with various new game modifications and balancing changes, which are all intended to improve the overall game experience.
Although Heihachi will be present as a paid DLC character, the story content and other upgrades will be given out free to all players. New updates and character releases aimed at developing the game’s community further continue to be brought in as Tekken 8 development still evolves on an ongoing basis. Players who pre-order will be able to access Heihachi and the new content starting from September 30th, whereas the general update goes live on October 3rd on PlayStation 5.
Additional reporting by Noor Bazmi
Nermeen Nabil Khear