Tekken 8 was initially praised as a crucial gameplay and balance improvement when it launched in 2024. Now over a year post-release, here's an updated tier ranking of the game's strongest fighters.
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Tekken 8 Tier List
This comprehensive ranking evaluates all available fighters in Tekken 8 based on their competitive viability. Factors like accessibility and current balance patches influence placements, though player skill remains paramount.
| Tier | Characters |
| S | Dragunov, Feng, Nina, Jin, King, Law |
| A | Alisa, Asuka, Claudio, Hwoarang, Jun, Kazuya, Kuma, Lars, Lee, Leo, Lili, Raven, Shaheen, Victor, Xiaoyu, Yoshimitsu, Zafina |
| B | Bryan, Eddy, Jack-8, Leroy, Paul, Reina, Steve |
| C | Panda |
S Tier
The S-tier roster features fighters with exceptional tools that create offensive/defensive advantages.
Dragunov maintains meta relevance despite nerfs, utilizing superior frame data and unpredictable mix-ups. Feng dominates with oppressive lows and devastating counter-hit potential. The protagonist Jin offers beginner-friendly mechanics with advanced combo potential via his Devil Gene enhancements.
King reigns supreme in close quarters with his intricate chain grabs, while Law excels at spacing with safe pokes and punishing counters. Though technically demanding, Nina rewards mastery with lethal Heat combos and debilitating throws.
A Tier
This tier comprises versatile fighters requiring less execution than S-tier counterparts.
Alisa introduces newcomers to pressure tactics with her diverse moveset. Defensive specialists favor Asuka, while Claudio transforms into a powerhouse during Starburst. Hwoarang offers accessibility across skill levels through his stance-based complexity.
The tournament-proven Kuma surprises with deceptive movement despite size limitations. Rushdown specialists Lars and Lee thrive punishing whiffs, while evasion experts Xiaoyu and Zafina control space exceptionally.
B Tier
These fighters maintain viability but require matchup knowledge against higher-tiered opponents.
Bryan delivers explosive damage despite mobility limitations. Eddy's once-feared pressure has been mitigated through balancing. Fundamental characters like Jack-8 and Paul help newcomers grasp core mechanics.
C Tier
Despite shared animations with Kuma, Panda suffers from predictable movement and inferior combo routes.
Tekken 8 is currently playable on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms.
