Hands-on: Tekken 8 seems ready for the next battle

destructoid.com:

Each Tekken in the series is usually a landmark for console generations, with its spectacular graphics and superb game design, and that’s certainly the case with Tekken 8. With its stunning lighting, entertaining new Heat system, and crisp netcode, this entry is certainly going in the right direction with its closed network test. Get your fists ready if another test or the full game arrives soon. There are many reasons why I can’t wait for the next battle.

The Tekken series has stepped it up again with its thrilling combat system. It keeps evolving, with each game adding a new compelling element; this time, it’s the Heat system. The Heat Timer heightens the attack power of your character and enables you to chip damage away from foes even if they’re blocking. You can only use it once per round, but it is key to your survival. Heat Smashes can be activated during the timer, letting you perform a flashy, yet powerful attack. It takes around a fifth of your opponent’s health. The Heat Systemups the stakes as it runs out, and the other player desperately blocks incoming strikes for around 10-15 seconds.

That’s not all about the Heat system, however. There are certain moves—like Jin’s Heat Engager—that activate the timer automatically within a combo. Button mashers may hate this, but if you use it strategically, these moves can be effective at disrupting your foe’s reign-of-terror combos. Another way to stop your foe from attacking is a Power Crush. It’s a counter that’s utilized to stop yourself from getting juggled. Rage Arts are also back and are flashy as ever.

Tekken 8 feels great to play with all-new moves and combos to initiate on your opponent. In the excellent training mode, you can get used to the precise timing with