Tekken 8 Features a massive 32-character roster for its release. Whether you are a new player or returning to the franchise after a while, this article will give you all the information you need to know who everyone on the Tekken 8 roster is, their backstory, and their initial role in Tekken 8's story, without spoilers of course.
Kazuya Mishima
Kazuya Mishima, raised in the Mishima mansion, confronts his father, Heihachi, after his mother's murder, surviving a cliff fall due to his Devil gene. Winning the King of Iron Fist tournament, he seizes control of Mishima Zaibatsu, steering it towards ruthlessness. His encounter with Jun Kazama results in the birth of Jin.
Internal struggles weaken Kazuya, leading to defeat in the second tournament. Revived by G Corporation, he engages in a corporate war. Ultimately defeating Heihachi in the seventh tournament, he faces his son Jin, marking a crucial showdown in the Mishima family saga.
Jin Kazama
Jin Kazama, son of Jun Kazama and Kazuya Mishima, faces a tumultuous destiny shaped by the clash between purity and the Devil gene's power. Raised by Jun in the Kazama style, Jin's life takes a dark turn when Ogre attacks on his fifteenth birthday, leading to his mother's disappearance.
Betrayed by Heihachi after winning the third King of Iron Fist tournament, Jin's Devil gene saves him. Determined to end the Mishima bloodline, Jin's actions trigger global conflict. His failed attempt to use negative energy to summon and defeat Azazel leaves him as the only one who can resolve the Mishima saga.
Paul Phoenix
From childhood, Paul Phoenix's fighting spirit was ignited by watching Bear Killer Willy Williams, influencing his life. Rejecting a conventional job, Paul pursued a street fighter and bouncer career to prove himself as the best fighter. Despite setbacks, he trained with renowned figures like Marshall Law and Lee Chaolan.
Engaging in the King of Iron Fist Tournaments, he faced rival Kazuya Mishima and experienced both victories and defeats. Undeterred, Paul teamed up in later tournaments, but ultimate success eluded him. Paul's struggle to achieve victory continues.
Nina Williams
Professional assassin Nina Williams, driven solely by monetary motives, navigates a career devoid of principles. Trained by her parents, Nina initially failed to assassinate Heihachi in the King of Iron Fist Tournament. Her reputation secured her a mission to eliminate Kazuya Mishima, but personal rivalry with her sister Anna led to failure.
Captured and cryosleep-induced amnesia followed, erasing her memory of the rivalry. Joining The Syndicate, she discovered her target, Steve Fox, was her son, leading her to spare him when The Syndicate fell. After recovering memories through Tekken tournaments, Nina became the leader of the Tekken Force under Mishima Zaibatsu. Later, she assumed a top role as a commander at G Corporation.
Marshall Law
Marshall Law, aspiring to open his own dojo, entered the first King of Iron Fist Tournament, gaining experience despite not winning. He fulfilled his dream after the event, but troubles struck when Taekwondo champion Baek Doo San attacked, leading to the need for more funds. Joining the second tournament, Marshall sought revenge and expanded his business after his victory.
However, financial setbacks followed, impacting his restaurant chain. The fourth tournament brought hope but resulted in deportation after defeat. Facing more challenges with his son Forest and money worries, Marshall formed a team for the next tournament, attempting to overcome a series of hardships in his personal and professional life. His unlucky streak continues as he seems perpetually bound to join the King of Iron Fist tournament to make up for financial shortfalls.
King
The original King, a street orphan turned benevolent figure, established an orphanage aided by funds from professional wrestling tournaments, notably the King of Iron Fist Tournament. Despite not winning, he sustained the orphanage until falling victim to Ogre's attack. His successor, King II, continued the legacy, trained by Armor King.
After Armor King's demise and a reconciliation with Marduk, King II joined the sixth tournament, renouncing revenge. Facing financial strain during the G-Corporation and Mishima Zaibatsu war, King reentered the King of Iron Fist Tournament to secure funding for his struggling orphanage.
Lars Alexandersson
Lars Alexandersson, Heihachi's illegitimate son, rose in the ranks of the Tekken force. After Jin Kazama took over Mishima Zaibatsu, Lars formed the rebel group Yggdrasil. An explosion during a lab raid erased his memory, prompting a quest for recovery with Alisa.
Reuniting with Lieutenant Tougou, they targeted both Mishima Zaibatsu and G-Corporation in Operation Gemini. Despite losses, they confronted Jin, leading to a showdown against Azazel. After defeating Azazel, Lars rescued Jin, anticipating a final clash against Kazuya to bring peace and prevent his global dominance.
Jack-8
Jack-8, a humanoid weapon machine developed by G-Corporation and designed by Jane, boasts advanced AI with rapid learning capabilities. The Jack model's origins can be traced back to the USSR, created by Dr. Bosconovitch. The first model, Jack, failed its mission to kill Kazuya Mishima. Jack-2, a mass-produced version, defied programming, joining the King of Iron Fist Tournament to free Dr. Bosconovitch.
However, it was destroyed, and Jane, its creator, spent a decade repairing it. Joining G-Corporation, Jane improved subsequent models to combat Mishima Zaibatsu, resulting in the formidable Jack-8 with enhanced firepower and a Gamma system. Deployed amid the chaos caused by Kazuya, Jack-8 enters the battle.
Jun Kazama
Jun Kazama, initially a wildlife surveillance officer investigating Kazuya Mishima's involvement in animal smuggling, sensed a mysterious power around him. Entering the King of Iron Fist tournament to stop the smuggling, Jun and Kazuya grew close.
Returning to Yakushima, Jun gave birth to Jin and raised him in their family's martial arts style. On Jin's fifteenth birthday, Ogre attacked, and Jun disappeared. Believing his mother was dead, Jin faced Ogre alone. As the final battle between her son and lover looms, Jun's mysterious story takes center stage in Tekken 8, hinting at a significant role in determining the world's fate.
Ling Xiaoyu
Ling Xiaoyu, aspiring to build a theme park in, stowed away on a Mishima Zaibatsu yacht, catching Heihachi's attention with her fighting skills. A deal was struck: win the King of Iron Fist Tournament 3, and Heihachi would fund her park. Although unsuccessful, she befriended Jin Kazama and took Panda as a bodyguard.
Joining the King of Iron Fist Tournament 4 to uncover Heihachi's intentions, Xiaoyu needed rescue by Yoshimitsu and later heard of Heihachi's passing. In the fifth tournament, she aimed to save him, discovering he was alive and Jin sought to kill him. Xiaoyu entered the sixth tournament to persuade Jin, facing opposition but convincing Claudio Serafino to her side. Now on a global journey with Panda and Zafina, Xiaoyu seeks to find the missing Jin.
Leroy Smith
Leroy's tough upbringing in crime-ridden New York left him an orphan, prompting him to seek refuge in Hong Kong. There, he mastered the martial art of Wing Chun, driven by a desire to combat multiple adversaries. Returning to New York, Leroy became a hero, liberating the city from gangs' control.
During this crusade, he uncovered the Mishima Zaibatsu's role in a war that devastated the city. In The King of Iron Fist Tournament, Leroy aimed to eradicate this source of evil. With Heihachi's disappearance, Leroy faced a new adversary in Kazuya Mishima, now leading G Corporation, and resolved to restore order to a world plunged into chaos.
Asuka Kazama
Asuka Kazama's Tekken journey unfolds as a tale of courage and justice. Raised in the Kazama family, she mastered Kazama Style Traditional Martial Arts, known for her disciplined training and commitment to righteousness. Famed in Osaka for using her fists to maintain peace, Asuka's peaceful life was shattered when her father's dojo was attacked. Seeking answers, she entered The King of Iron Fist Tournament, sparking a rivalry with mischievous heiress Lili.
Focused on finding Feng Wei, Asuka confronted her blood ties to Jin Kazama, entering the tournament again to end the chaos. Victorious over Lili, a surprising twist revealed Lili as Asuka's student, adding depth to their relationship. Asuka's narrative revolves around personal vendettas, familial bonds, and the unwavering pursuit of justice, showcasing her determination to protect and ensure justice prevails.
Lili
Lili, a wealthy heiress from the De Rochefort family, lived a luxurious life in Monaco before her introduction in Tekken 5. Kidnapped and held for ransom, she discovered her affinity for conflict after defeating her abductors. Secretly entering street fighting tournaments, she joined the King of Iron Fist Tournament 5 after an invitation from a San Francisco opponent.
Seeking to address Mishima Zaibatsu's impact on her father's business, Lili faced defeat by Asuka Kazama, leading to her father's disapproval and a ban on leaving home. Mishima Zaibatsu's takeover of Rochefort's oil fields prompted Lili to enter the King of Iron Fist Tournament 6, aiming to reclaim them. During the tournament, she encountered Lars Alexandersson and Alisa Bosconovitch, providing support before returning home. In Tekken 7, Lili secretly entered to face Asuka, finally getting the chance for a rematch.
Hwoarang
Hwoaranginitially studied Taekwondo under Baek Doo San. Known as Jin Kazama's main rival, Hwoarang's journey involves street fraud, military service, and seeking revenge for his master's apparent death by entering tournaments. He defeats Jin but faces challenges, including a near-fatal encounter.
Leading a rebellion against Mishima Zaibatsu, he encounters Jin in the Middle East, defeating him but sustaining an injury. Hwoarang sacrifices his pursuit for the sake of Jin's escape. This complex narrative showcases Hwoarang's evolution, his quest for strength, and conflicts in the Tekken universe.
Bryan Fury
Bryan Fury, once an esteemed police officer, met his demise in a Hong Kong shootout, leading to a radical experiment by Dr. Abel that transformed him into a cyborg. His enhanced existence erased moral constraints, replacing them with a thirst for power. Participating in the King of Iron Fist Tournaments, Bryan confronted past demons and tested his limits, evolving into a fearsome warrior.
Through his travels, he has made acquaintances with a number of characters, including Yoshimutsu. A malfunction in a confrontation unleashed a surge of power, marking Bryan as a symbol of untamed chaos, transcending human and technological boundaries.
Claudio Serafino
Heihachi Mishima, seeking an alliance with the Sirius Marksmen, faces rejection until defeating their leader, Claudio Serafino, in Italy. Intrigued by Heihachi's knowledge of the Devil Gene, Claudio joins forces to combat the Mishima Clan's devil entities. A formidable exorcist, Claudio discovers Ling Xiaoyu's quest for Jin Kazama and aligns with her.
He struggles with internal dissent after Heihachi's betrayal, but Xiaoyu's faith inspires him. Despite past actions, Claudio pledges support, ready to confront Jin if the Devil Gene prevails. The narrative explores alliances, betrayals, and a shared mission against supernatural forces.
Raven
The Mishima Zaibatsu's global threat prompts the UN to create the Raven Unit, a force of elite warriors, including Raven. In Tekken 5, investigating an explosion at Hon-Maru, Raven faces Heihachi in the King of Iron Fist Tournament. Despite discovering Heihachi's survival, the UN recalls Raven to protect their secret agent.
The war between Mishima Zaibatsu and G Corporation continues, leading Raven to ally with Lars and Alisa. In the tower, they confront Jin Kazama, facing challenges and losses. Raven, recognizing the need for more training, prepares for an ongoing battle against powerful adversaries.
Azucena
Raised on the Ortiz Farm in Peru, Azucena mastered coffee farming from her father. Despite rejection, she developed a top-rated coffee strain, aspiring to be the best coffee farmer globally. Azucena, also an MMA champion, model, and dancer, pursued business administration. Her coffee brand, "Azucena Blend," gained popularity in the American MMA scene. Now eyeing international expansion, she plans to enter the King of Iron Fist Tournament, combining her martial arts skills with business acumen for success.
Feng
Feng Wei, a formidable practitioner of "God Fist" Chinese Kenpo, betrayed his master in pursuit of forbidden scrolls for ultimate power. Successful in stealing them from Mishima Zaibatsu during the King of Iron Fist Tournament, Feng aspires to become the "Dragon God." However, his ambition leads to a devastating defeat by Leroy Smith, a Wing Chun master who criticizes Feng's distorted techniques.
Consumed by rage, Feng intensifies his training, challenging defensive martial arts masters worldwide. Nina Williams offers an alliance with G-Corp, providing a chance for Feng to confront Leroy once more, as Leroy becomes a threat to the corporation.
Victor Chevalier
Victor Chevalier, head of the United Nations military units, traces his lineage to legendary knights. Motivated by a desire to save lives, he enlisted in the Navy and eventually founded the enigmatic Raven unit. Master Raven, his field commander, oversees this secretive group tasked with maintaining the global power balance.
Victor, the ultimate man behind the UN's armed forces, stands as the last defense against Mishima Zaibatsu and G-Corporation. His role is crucial, and the world's fate hinges on his ability to oppose these formidable forces.
Reina
Reinais a newcomer toTekken 8. She’s a student at theMishima Polytechnical School,the same oneJin Kazama, Ling Xiaoyu,andMiharu Hiranoattended. Not much is known about her past, but she seems to be extensively linked to theMishimafamily. Her interest in this dysfunctional clan mainly manifests through her desire to fightJinandKazuya.
Leo
Leo, born into a family of scientists with martial arts passion, inherits skills from absent archeologist father, Niklas Kliesen. Raised by compassionate Emma, Leo becomes a formidable fighter with a strong sense of justice. Tragedy strikes when Emma dies under mysterious circ*mstances, leading Leo to uncover G Corporation's involvement and ties to Kazuya Mishima. Filled with rage, Leo seeks the truth. Reuniting with their long-lost father, Leo embarks on a journey to set things right and confront the forces behind the tragedy.
Steve Fox
Steve Fox, a British boxer, competes to unravel his mysterious past. Born from Nina Williams' genes for a failed super-soldier experiment, he escapes with scientist Emma Kliesen's help. Living a normal life, Steve embraces boxing but rejects a match-fixing offer from 'The Syndicate,' making him their target.
Joining the King of Iron Fist Tournament, he seeks the truth about his past and the scar on his arm.Lei Wulong aids him, revealing Mishima Zaibatsu's involvement. Steve vows revenge, destroying Zaibatsu locations. Discovering Nina is his mother brings rejection, pushing him to reshape his future in the tournaments.
Dragunov
Sergei Dragunov, a patriotic operative introduced in Tekken 5, is known as "The White Angel of Death." His enigmatic past and efficient, ruthless missions make him a formidable force. Initially tasked to obtain a specimen, he enters the King of Iron Fist Tournament but fails. Recalled to quell civil unrest caused by Mishima Zaibatsu, he re-enters the tournament to eliminate them.
In Tekken 7, with Heihachi presumed dead, Dragunov seeks to end Mishima Zaibatsu. Given rare time off, he reflects on personal desires, choosing a challenging adventure and marking a new chapter in his story.
Yoshimitsu
Yoshimitsu, leader of the Manji Clan, initially joins the King of Iron Fist tournament to divert attention from his group's plans to rob Mishima Zaibatsu. After exposing corrupt Ganryu, he aids Marshall Law with the stolen wealth. Later, learning of Dr. Bosconovitch's abduction by Kazuya, Yoshimitsu rescues him and forms an alliance. Joining tournaments, he secures Ogre's blood for the doctor's survival.
Facing resource shortages for the Manji Clan, Yoshimitsu allies with Mishima Zaibatsu, orchestrating a diversion to secure funds. Enraged by Bryan's attack, he vows revenge. In Tekken 7, Yoshimitsu uncovers Mishima Zaibatsu's secret archives for a mysterious benefactor.
Shaheen
Introduced in Tekken 7, Shaheen fights against G Corp for the death of his friend, Salim. Shaheen, skilled due to his father's teachings, saved Salim from an assassin, gaining entry into Salim's influential family. After serving as Salim's bodyguard, they pursued separate paths—Shaheen to the army, Salim to lead the family's oil firm.
Learning of Salim's suspicious death, Shaheen discovers Kazuya Mishima's involvement, swearing revenge against G Corp. Assisted by Salim's brother, Zarif, Shaheen embarks on a mission to confront the demonic Kazuya and avenge his friend.
Kuma
Kuma II, son of the original Kuma, serves as Heihachi's pet and bodyguard. After watching TV, he develops a fierce rivalry with Paul Phoenix, losing in his first tournament but learning to reconnect with his animal roots. Training in Hokkaido, Kuma unveils original attacks and eventually defeats Paul.
Devastated by Heihachi's apparent death, Kuma attempts to lead the Mishima Zaibatsu but faces challenges from new leaders. Despite setbacks, including another defeat by Paul and a confrontation with Jin, Kuma survives and continues training. Reunited with Heihachi, he vows to protect Mishima Zaibatsu for his master's return.
Panda
Panda, a giant animal, serves as Ling Xiaoyu's loyal pet and specially trained bodyguard, debuting in Tekken 3. Trained by Heihachi Mishima in advanced bear fighting, Panda accompanies Xiaoyu to tournaments. During King of Iron Fist Tournament 4, Panda continues her role. Concerned about Xiaoyu's sadness after Jin Kazama's disappearance, Panda searches for him without success. In King of Iron Fist Tournament 5, as Xiaoyu vanishes, Panda participates, encountering Paul Phoenix. After defeating him, she follows Xiaoyu's scent, determined to find her missing friend.
Alisa
Alisa's seemingly gentle appearance hides a tragic origin as a fighting machine designed solely to protect and obey Jin Kazama. Manipulated to attack Lars Alexandersson, her mechanical heart's connection to him causes inner turmoil. Rescued and restored by Lars and allies, Alisa undergoes a reboot to regain control.
Despite feeling something amiss around Lars, Dr. Bosconovitch reveals she's fine post-reboot. Now free and mastering her destiny, Alisa chooses to walk her path alongside Lars and her allies, liberated from her past programming.
Zafina
Zafina, a spiritually gifted woman from a warrior tribe, guarded the tomb where the ancient evil Azazel was sealed. Dark omens and premonitions led her to discover an ancient prophecy predicting Azazel's awakening. With the prophecy fulfilled, Zafina sought help from Lars Alexandersson, Jin Kazama, and Nina Williams. After Azazel's partial defeat, Zafina sealed his spirit within herself.
Now, struggling to maintain the weakening seal, she turns to Claudio Serafino and the Order of the Sirius, with Ling Xiaoyu's aid, to reinforce it temporarily. They face the challenge of finding a permanent solution before the seal breaks entirely.
Lee Chaolan
Lee Chaolan, adopted by Heihachi Mishima, endured a challenging upbringing. Leading Violet Systems, a robotics company, he harbored resentment towards the Mishima family. Encountering Lars, who shared common origins and goals, Lee initially sought to exploit him for revenge. However, their collaboration transformed Lee's perspective.
Growing fond of Lars, he found a brighter outlook on the world. With Lee's technical prowess and Lars' leadership of Yggdrasil, they prepared to confront opposing forces, testing advanced technology in a critical conflict. The outcome would determine the success of their alliance and innovations in aerial vehicles and combat suits.
Devil Jin
Devil Jin, an evil alter ego of Jin Kazama, emerged from the Devil Gene within Kazuya Mishima. Introduced in Tekken 5, Devil Jin surfaces in critical moments during tournaments, wreaking havoc. Jin's internal conflict intensifies as he battles against the Mishima family. After facing Azazel and gaining control over his powers in Tekken 6, Jin's struggle to prevent Devil Jin's dominance continues. His journey reflects a complex narrative of internal strife and external conflicts within the Tekken series.
