Tekken 8 Tier List: A Comprehensive Ranking of Fighters (2024-2025)
Tekken 8's release in 2024 marked a significant gameplay and balance overhaul for the series. Over a year later, this tier list offers a current assessment of the best Tekken 8 fighters. Remember, skill significantly impacts performance, so this list reflects a general consensus, not absolute truth.
| 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
- Dragunov: Despite nerfs, Dragunov's frame data and mix-ups maintain his meta relevance.
- Feng: Rapid, low attacks and powerful counter-hit potential make Feng a formidable opponent.
- Jin: Highly versatile and adaptable, Jin's deadly combos and Devil Gene mechanics make him a top contender.
- King: King's grab attacks and chain throws dominate close-range combat.
- Law: Law's strong poking game, agility, and counter-hit capabilities make him difficult to overcome.
- Nina: Mastering Nina's complex moveset unlocks devastating heat mode and grab attacks.
A Tier
A-tier fighters are strong choices but may present a steeper learning curve than S-tier characters.
- Alisa: Alisa's gimmicks and low attacks are effective, especially for pressure-oriented playstyles.
- Asuka: A solid choice for beginners, Asuka offers strong defensive options and straightforward combos.
- Claudio: Claudio's Starburst state significantly amplifies his damage output.
- Hwoarang: Hwoarang's multiple stances provide versatile offensive and defensive options for both new and experienced players.
- Jun: Jun's health recovery and strong mix-ups make her a dangerous opponent.
- Kazuya: Kazuya's versatile style and powerful combos reward mastery of Tekken 8 fundamentals.
- Kuma: Kuma's size and unpredictable movements create opportunities for punishing attacks.
- Lars: Lars' high speed and mobility allow for effective evasion and pressure.
- Lee: Lee's strong poking game and stance transitions make him a formidable offensive fighter.
- Leo: Leo's strong mix-ups and relatively safe moveset make him a consistent threat.
- Lili: Lili's acrobatic style and few defensive weaknesses make her highly unpredictable.
- Raven: Raven's speed, teleportation, and shadow clones make him difficult to counter.
- Shaheen: Shaheen's complex but powerful combos reward dedicated practice.
- Victor: Victor's technological abilities allow him to adapt to various fighting styles.
- Xiaoyu: Xiaoyu's mobility and adaptable stances make her a difficult target.
- Yoshimitsu: Yoshimitsu's health-siphoning combos and teleportation make him a strategic fighter.
- Zafina: Zafina's three stances allow for excellent spacing and control.
B Tier
B-tier characters are fun but may be more easily exploited by skilled players.
- Bryan: Bryan's high damage output is offset by his slow speed and lack of gimmicks.
- Eddy: Eddy's fast attacks are now more easily countered.
- Jack-8: A solid fundamental character, good for beginners.
- Leroy: Nerfed from his initial release, Leroy's damage and frame data are less advantageous.
- Paul: Paul's high damage potential requires precise positioning and timing.
- Reina: Reina's strong offense is countered by her weak defense.
- Steve: Steve's predictable moveset makes him vulnerable to counters.
C Tier
Panda's lower ranking stems from her similarity to Kuma, but with significantly less effectiveness.
- Panda: Panda lacks Kuma's defensive capabilities and offensive pressure.
Tekken 8 is available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
