The “NEW CHARRENGAH” moniker seems to not get tired, with Tekken 8 reveals, especially for Tekken roster mainstays who’ve clawed their way throughout the entire series. Kuma, for instance, is one of them. As Heihachi leaves a hole in the Three Way Power Struggle physically, some members of his tribe can’t seem to let go mentally. Even one of his longtime pets and bodyguard.
Check out his trailer below.
Donning his master’s ripped-up tiger gi, arm, and leg bands is Kuma – the favorite cuddly karate Bear, ready to kick ass in the name of the Mishima clan. Armed with his claws, teeth, and a rocket-powered salmon (you read that right), there’s no telling what new tricks this bear was taught. Seeing some of Heihachi’s moves engrained into him – along with lockjaw throws and fish-slapping Heat moves, Kuma’s entering the King of The Iron Fist Tournament to win. And also, to proclaim his love to Panda – his err … panda counterpart. This is probably one of the first times we’ve seen Kuma with actual clothes in his default pick.
Some Borrowed and Some New
Kuma seems to be holding some of his old moves to heart. Some of Mishima-style specials are also seen here during Heat. The Electric Wind God Fist move being that special one that he has no trouble bringing without a picnic basket. He’s sporting the double palm strike of his master and the Mishima uppercut for good measure.
That Heat activation could have been on all-fours, though. The Hunting Bear stance is seen against Paul with Kuma still being able to grab his opponents by the mouth. His mouth. His salmon missile might be the very thing that could turn the tides of the war to the Mishima Zaibatsu as Kuma is noted to be fighting alone. He’s seen with it as his Rage Art!
Tekken 8 will be available on January 26th on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X | S, and Steam. The demo – which includes Story, Local Play, and Ghost Mode – is available now.
