Fighting games have never been a favourite of mine. The many complex button combinations that have to be learned to properly control a character has always put me off. Tekken 4 hasn’t completely changed my opinion on the genre, but I have thoroughly enjoyed it and played it until my hand resembled a gnarled claw!
As with other titles of this genre, there is a plot that explains some of the enmity that exists between characters, but largely the narrative is superfluous — even when playing in story mode. I am of the view that these sorts of games really only come into their element when playing against another person. The fun that can be had playing against your friends is immense. The atmosphere that this game creates when playing against a friend or spouse is fantastic. Old rivalries and issues are thrashed out in the combat arena.
That is not to say that Tekken 4 is not a satisfying game in one player mode. There are three types of battle that can be played in one player mode — not including the Practice and Training levels. There are initially ten fighters to choose from and ten more that can be unlocked as you progress through story mode. The solo player has also the option of playing in Arcade/Time attack and Tekken Force.
Story mode allows you to select a character, view a short introduction to that characters back story and then fight your way to the final of the Iron Fist Tournament. On completion another short full motion video is shown that is specific to the character you chose. The fights in every mode of the game are now fought in arenas of varying sizes, some like the Airport levels are wide open with lots of room to fight in. These levels allow for running attacks and dodges while the smaller arenas like the one that is very reminiscent of the movie ‘Fight Club’ force you to make tighter attacks and greater use of defensive moves. There are objects in many of these levels that can be smashed either by hitting them or more satisfyingly by throwing your opponent into them.
The use of corners and walls is an important strategy in Tekken 4. You can damage your opponent greatly by forcing him or her into a corner where you can attack them with increased impact on their life meter.
Control of the characters is fairly simple and intuitive. Attacks are comprised of left and right punch and kick attacks. When you first pick up the game it is possible to fight your way through by randomly thrashing at buttons on the PS2 controller. However it is far more satisfying to learn your fighters moves in training or practice mode. By learning the correct button combos you will be able to unleash devastating and stylish moves on your opponent.
Fine tuning your practised moves in the Tekken force mode is very satisfying. In this area of the game you must face multiple foes in a level based challenge. Fight your way through a mass of opponents and level bosses to complete Tekken force. Unfortunately it’s probably advisable to stick your hands in a bucket of ice afterwards!
This game of course is visually stunning. The animation is genius, the combatants move with incredible fluidity, their various poses and attacks look completely natural and human. The rendering of the scenery and backgrounds is second to none. Spectators will cheer you on, and in some levels a spectator can be knocked to the floor if they are unlucky enough to be in the way of your attack. All in all, if you are a fight game fan, this is a ‘must have’ title.
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