It’s been nearly a decade since the last Tekken game was released, but now Tekken 8 is finally here, and it brings more than just updated graphics. In addition to changes in rage arts and movesets, the game has introduced a new feature called the heat system, which fundamentally changes the way the game is played by promoting an aggressive approach. However, being aggressive doesn’t mean being reckless. While the heat system can be powerful enough to corner your opponent, someone who knows how to play around it can turn the tables on you just as easily. So, let’s take a closer look at how the Tekken 8 heat system works.
Tekken 8 Heat System Basics
At the beginning of each round, you’ll notice a blue bar located just below your Health bar. This bar represents your Heat meter. When activated, you enter the heat state, and your character will have a steam-like effect emanating from them. This is also visible as the Heat bar starts glowing. While in the heat state, some of your moves will receive a buff, although this varies from character to character.
There are two important things to note about the heat state. First, it only lasts for 10 seconds once activated, but it stops reducing temporarily while you are attacking. Second, opponents who block your attacks while in the heat state will receive chip damage, turning part of their health bar a shade of gray or white. This health is recoverable if they return damage to you or attack you.
How to Enter Heat State in Tekken 8
There are two ways to activate your character’s heat. The first is by using Heat Burst, which is the easier method and recommended for beginners. Simply press R1 or RB on your controller to activate it.
The second method is by using Heat Engager. This method of activation is character-specific, so depending on who you main, you will have to learn the button combinations to activate it.
But why use Engager when Burst exists? Using Heat Burst can make your opponent aware of your possible next moves. On the other hand, Heat Engager activates in the middle of a combo, making it harder for opponents to anticipate your next attack.
How to Use Heat
Activating heat is just the beginning. To make the most of it, you should ensure that you use it before it runs out. There are two ways to use Heat in the game: Heat Dash and Heat Smash.
Heat Dash allows you to follow up on a combo, essentially allowing you to chain one combo after another when executed correctly.
On the other hand, Heat Smash is akin to a mini Rage Art and is easier for beginners to use. Simply press R1 or R2 while in the heat state when your enemy is off guard. If your Heat Smash connects, your character will execute a unique move on your opponent. Regardless of whether your opponent successfully blocks your attack, your Heat bar will turn yellow before depleting. Using Dash or Smash will deplete the rest of your Heat bar, and like Rage Arts, you will be able to use it again in the next round.
Now that you understand how the heat system works in Tekken 8, if this is your first game in the series, I highly recommend checking out our controls guide for essential basics, such as how to block, low parry, throw, perform basic combos, and more. Additionally, you may want to see how players are using cheats to unlock all characters in the Demo.