Documented for this version

Which controls does this version use?

Actions

Tekken action controls
D-pad
Move, crouch, and jump
Square
Left punch
Triangle
Right punch
Cross
Left kick
Circle
Right kick
L1
Sidestep left
R1
Sidestep right
Start
Pause the match

Control notes

  • The four face buttons represent the fighter's left and right punches and kicks.

  • Directional inputs can be combined with attacks for character-specific techniques.

  • Button assignments may be changed in the game's configuration menu.

How it plays

How does Tekken play?

Tekken is played from a third-person side-on perspective in one-on-one matches. Each fighter has separate left- and right-arm punches and kicks, so attacks correspond directly to the four face buttons. Players move, block, crouch, jump, sidestep, throw, and combine attacks into launchers and juggles.

Arcade Mode leads through a sequence of opponents before a character-specific final battle. Winning rounds reduces the opponent's health, while losing both rounds ends the match. The PlayStation release also includes Versus Mode and unlockable characters and endings earned through repeated Arcade clears.

Plan your run

What is the best way to play Tekken?

Learn the range and recovery of a small group of safe attacks before attempting long combos. Use sidesteps to evade linear attacks, then punish the opponent's recovery with a quick launcher or throw.

Watch the opponent's habits rather than attacking constantly. Low attacks can open a blocking opponent, while crouching also avoids many high attacks; avoid relying on one predictable option because throws, mids, and launchers counter passive defense.

Meet the cast

Who are the key characters?

1

Kazuya Mishima

The central tournament fighter and Heihachi's son, seeking revenge after being thrown from a cliff as a child.

2

Heihachi Mishima

The ruthless head of the Mishima family and organizer of the King of Iron Fist Tournament.

3

Paul Phoenix

An American martial artist determined to prove that he is the strongest fighter in the tournament.

4

Nina Williams

A professional assassin who fights with fast strikes and throws.

5

Yoshimitsu

A mysterious Manji clan leader wielding a sword and unusual ninja techniques.

6

King

A masked professional wrestler whose fighting style combines wrestling throws and strikes.

Before you begin

What should you know before playing?

  1. 1

    Practice movement and throw breaks in Versus Mode before tackling the later Arcade fights.

  2. 2

    Use short, reliable combos until you understand each character's launchers and recovery.

  3. 3

    Several characters and endings are earned by clearing Arcade Mode with different fighters.

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