DESCRIPTION

Despite the title, Tekken 4 is the fifth installment of Namco's Tekken series, and the first true sequel since Tekken 3 (Tekken Tag Tournament was considered more of a side-project than a sequel). Many of the main characters make a return appearance in the game, especially those central to the ongoing Tekken saga.

While the standard four-button control configuration returns, there are some enhancements in the area of movement. Tekken 3 introduced side-stepping, a way for characters to get around and behind their opponents, whereas Tekken 4 brings true 3D movement one step closer. Characters can now fully walk to their left and right instead of taking baby steps.

Another change to the Tekken world is the addition of walls to each of the stages. In the past, Tekken was known for its free environments, but now barriers, walls, and even people can stand in the way of the fight, creating new combo opportunities for those fortunate to have their opponents with their backs to the wall. Tekken 4 also possesses a feature called "Just Frame Technique." Completing full combination strings will now require more precise timing than in the past.

Tekken 4 begins with ten playable characters, including three new fighters with two all-new fighting styles. There are an additional ten slots for time-released characters to fill, which will include faces from Tekken past as well as new characters ready to enter the tournament. ~ Jon Thompson, All Game Guide