Bandai Namco has unveiled the last new character, Reina, for the highly anticipated release of Tekken 8 early next year. Reina’s potential connection to the Mishimas could play a significant role in the franchise.
A character trailer released on Nov. 13 showcased Reina’s fighting style, which bears resemblance to the Mishima style of karate. Tekken 8 director Kohei Ikeda provided more details about Reina’s range of attacks in a PlayStation blog post.
Reina utilizes an acrobatic fighting style rooted in Taido, incorporating swift and brutal techniques such as knife-hand strikes, eye pokes, and scratching. Her movements reflect her character, and she employs special movements called Sentai and Unsoku to quickly close the distance and deliver powerful attacks with agile footwork.
To create Reina’s unique fighting style, Bandai Namco collaborated with Tetsuki Nakano, a four-time Taido world champion. Nakano’s expertise in Taido and other martial arts helped bring out the distinctive features and personality in Reina’s movements.
The trailer also hinted at Reina’s possible connection to the Mishima clan. Apart from her Mishima-style fighting techniques, Reina referred to Jin Kazama as “senpai,” suggesting she may be younger than the Tekken protagonist and potentially sharing a connection with him. Additionally, Reina had a conversation with Kazuya Mishima, implying that he will soon understand who she is.
Reina is the 32nd and final new character to join the roster of Tekken 8, set to release on Jan. 26, 2024. The game already boasts a vast lineup of returning characters from previous Tekken installments, including Jin, Kazuya, Paul Phoenix, King, Yoshimitsu, and more. However, new characters are a tradition in each new installment.
In addition to Reina, Victor Chevalier and Azucena will also make their debuts in Tekken 8. Ikeda mentioned that Victor plays a crucial role in the game’s setting, influencing the power balance in the world.
Source: DOTESPORTS
