The latest patch for Tekken 8 just arrived, introducing the fierce Thai kickboxer Fahkumram as the new DLC character. Along with him, players will find a brand-new battle stage, some cool cosmetics, and a balance update that tweaks several moves and gameplay elements. If you’re into Tekken, this patch is definitely one to check out!
Fahkumram is available now in early access for those who purchased certain Season 2 passes, with general access opening a few days later. The update also adds a fresh stage called PAC-PIXELS and a slew of new items in the in-game TEKKEN SHOP, including a PAC-MAN collaboration. Plus, the TEKKEN FIGHT LOUNGE is getting some neat new features like a message board and a way to warp near friends.
Here’s a closer look at everything packed into patch 2.003.001, including Fahkumram’s moves list and the balance adjustments that might just disrupt your matches.
Fahkumram DLC and PAC-PIXELS Stage
The new fighter, Fahkumram, is rolling out with early access starting around July 8th (CEST) for those with the Season 2 Character & Stage Pass or Ultimate/Deluxe Editions. General access begins July 11th. The PAC-PIXELS stage follows the same schedule and is included in the same passes.
TEKKEN SHOP Updates
- TEKKEN FIGHT PASS – ROUND 6: Complete missions to level up and earn items, including PAC-MAN collaboration gear. Free players get 10 items, Premium gets 8 extra plus more TEKKEN COINS.
- Atelier Yumia Collaboration Pack: Free customization items available until mid-October.
- Fahkumram Avatar Skin: Limited-time sale at 75% off (100 TEKKEN COINS) for use in the fight lounge.
- TEKKEN SPECIAL DEAL Event: Selected items discounted during the event period.
TEKKEN FIGHT LOUNGE New Features
- Players in the Lounge List: A new panel to quickly see who’s hanging out in the lounge.
- Message Board: Avatars can display messages above their heads to find practice partners or friends. Messages can be typed or selected from phrases and stamps.
- Warp to Player: Teleport near a specific player from friend lists or lounge menus.
- Preset Phrases and Stamp Updates: Added search and automatic translation for cross-language chats, including flexible phrases like “Looking for opponents! (rank) players welcome!”
- Ghost Behavior Tweaks: Some ghost combos adjusted for better balance.
- Special Ghosts with Character Panels: Five special ghosts featuring fan art appear in the lobby until August, rewarding distinct panels when defeated.
Balance Changes in Patch 2.003.001
The patch continues to target moves that have felt a bit too rewarding compared to their risk, trying to keep fights fair and competitive. Rage Arts have been adjusted to be easier to punish on block by increasing their frame disadvantage from -15 to -18, so throws aren’t the only option anymore—you can land air combos reliably now.
Interestingly, planned buffs for multiple characters got scaled back to only affect Devil Jin, eager to avoid shaking up the overall balance too much. With several major esports tournaments happening in August, no balance changes are expected in the next update, so this patch might be the last big tweak for a while.
Watch Fahkumram in Action
Yikes, that trailer really shows off Fahkumram’s brutal style! Do you think he’s gonna disrupt the meta or just be another strong contender? I’m curious if the balance tweaks will finally cool down some of those overpowered moves. What’s your take on the new Fight Lounge features? I kinda love the idea of messaging above avatars, it might bring a fresh social vibe.
