15 “Tekken 3” Facts, Gameplay Tips and Game Controls

“Tekken 3” is a popular 3D fighting game developed and published by Namco. It was initially released in arcades in 1997 and later ported to the PlayStation console in 1998. “Tekken 3” is the third installment in the main “Tekken” series and is widely regarded as one of the best fighting games of its time.

Tekken 3 Facts

1. Tekken 3″ was the first game in the series to utilize 3D polygonal graphics, introducing a new level of visual fidelity compared to its predecessors.
2. The game was originally released as an arcade title in 1997 before being ported to the PlayStation console in 1998.
3. “Tekken 3” featured a diverse roster of characters, with a total of 23 playable fighters, including classic favorites like Jin Kazama, Heihachi Mishima, and Nina Williams, as well as new characters such as Hwoarang and Eddy Gordo.
4. The game introduced a new gameplay mechanic called “Tekken Force,” a side-scrolling beat ’em up mode where players could battle through multiple stages against waves of enemies.
5. “Tekken 3” received critical acclaim upon release, with praise for its fluid gameplay, stunning visuals, and deep character movesets.
6. The game was a commercial success, selling over 8.3 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling PlayStation games of all time.
7. “Tekken 3” won numerous awards, including “Best Fighting Game” and “Game of the Year” honors from various publications.
8. The home console version of “Tekken 3” included additional game modes, such as Survival Mode, Time Attack, and a Theater Mode where players could watch character endings.
9. The game featured intricate and detailed stages, including iconic locations like the Mishima Estate, King’s Arena, and the iconic “School” stage.
10. “Tekken 3” introduced the popular “Tekken Ball” mini-game, where players would hit a giant ball at each other, similar to volleyball, using their character’s special moves.
11. The soundtrack of “Tekken 3” was composed by Nobuyoshi Sano and Keiichi Okabe, featuring a diverse range of musical styles that complemented the intense battles.
12. The game’s story mode focused on the ongoing feud between the Mishima family, showcasing the personal struggles and conflicts of the various characters.
13. “Tekken 3” received an updated version titled “Tekken 3: PlayStation 2 Edition,” which included enhanced graphics and gameplay tweaks when played on the PlayStation 2 console.
14. The success of “Tekken 3” solidified the “Tekken” franchise as one of the leading fighting game series, leading to numerous sequels and spin-offs.
15. The competitive scene for “Tekken 3” grew rapidly, with players participating in tournaments and establishing a dedicated community that continues to thrive to this day.

Tekken 3 Gameplay Tips

• Master Your Character: Spend time learning the moveset, combos, and special attacks of your chosen character. Each character in “Tekken 3” has a unique playstyle and moves, so understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial.
• Practice Movement and Defense: Learning how to move effectively and defend against your opponent’s attacks is essential. Practice sidestepping, backdashing, and blocking to create openings for your own attacks.
• Study Your Opponent: Observe your opponent’s playstyle and habits. Look for patterns, weaknesses, and opportunities to punish their mistakes.
• Mix Up Your Attacks: Use a variety of attacks, including low, mid, and high attacks, to keep your opponent guessing. Mix up your offense with different combos, throws, and special moves to maintain pressure.
• Utilize Juggling and Combos: Learn juggling techniques to launch your opponent into the air and follow up with damaging combos. Mastering combos can lead to significant damage and create momentum in your favor.
• Learn Frame Data: Understanding frame data can give you an advantage. Knowing which moves are safe on block and which have frame advantage can help you maintain control and punish your opponent effectively.
• Manage Your Distance: Control the spacing between you and your opponent. Keep a safe distance to avoid getting punished and use your character’s range advantage to land hits or punish whiffed moves.
• Master the Art of Throws: Throws can be powerful tools to break your opponent’s defense and inflict damage. Practice different types of throws, including regular throws, command throws, and chain throws, to keep your opponent on their toes.
• Punish Mistakes: Capitalize on your opponent’s mistakes by punishing them with your character’s most damaging moves or combos. This can deter them from repeating the same errors.
• Play Mind Games: Use feints, baiting tactics, and counterattacks to confuse and frustrate your opponent. Making them second-guess their actions can create openings for your own offense.
• Stay Calm Under Pressure: Maintain composure, even in intense situations. Avoid panicking and making rash decisions. Focus on your game plan and adapt to your opponent’s strategies.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: Like any skill, improvement in “Tekken 3” comes with practice. Spend time honing your skills, experimenting with different strategies, and learning from your matches.

Tekken 3 Game Controls

PlayStation:

• D-Pad / Left Analog Stick: Move your character forward, backward, or sidestep.
• Square Button: Left Punch
• Triangle Button: Right Punch
• X Button: Left Kick
• Circle Button: Right Kick
• L1 Button: Guard
• L2 Button: Tag (during Tag Battle mode)
• R1 Button: Tag (during Tag Battle mode)
• R2 Button: Not used in “Tekken 3”

Keyboard Controls:

• W, A, S, D keys: Move your character forward, backward, or sidestep.
• U key: Left Punch
• I key: Right Punch
• J key: Left Kick
• K key: Right Kick
• Spacebar: Guard
• 1, 2, 3, 4 keys: Tag (during Tag Battle mode)
• ESC: Pause the game, access options