In the annals of video game history, and especially the fight game genre, few franchises have left as indelible a mark as Tekken.

Launched in arcades on December 9, 1994, by Namco (now known as Bandai Namco Entertainment), Tekken burst onto the scene as a revolutionary fighting game that would go on to shape the genre and become one of the most successful and enduring franchises in the gaming world.

The development of Tekken was led by large contingent of ex Sega employees most of whom had already worked on Virtua Fighter. These guys knew their way around a 3d fighting game, and boy did it show once the game was released.

Tekken made its debut in arcades, captivating players with its stunning graphics, diverse roster of characters, and deep combat system. Not bad for a title originally designed to be a cheaper alternative Virtua Fighter 2!

The reception to Tekken was overwhelmingly positive. Critics and players alike praised the game's fluid animations, responsive controls, and the balanced yet distinct play styles of each character.

The game's success in arcades led to a PlayStation port in 1995, which introduced the franchise to a wider audience and solidified its place in gaming history. The home console release enabled players to experience Tekken's unique mechanics and engaging storyline from the comfort of their living rooms, all of this at a time when Playstation was helping change the overall perception of video games at large. The market was “growing up” and Tekken was instrumental in helping it do so.

The success of the original Tekken laid the foundation for an expansive and enduring franchise that would span multiple sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations. Tekken 2, released in 1995, built upon the foundations of the original, introducing new characters, enhanced graphics, and refined mechanics. Subsequent entries, including Tekken 3, Tekken 4, and beyond, continued to innovate and evolve the series, adding new gameplay elements, modes, and characters to keep the fanbase engaged.

One of the driving forces behind Tekken's growth was its commitment to engaging storytelling. The franchise wove intricate narratives around its characters, exploring their backgrounds, motivations, and connections. This emphasis on storytelling helped players develop emotional connections to the characters, further deepening their investment in the game, and this can be seen all the way back in the original title.

The competitive scene also played a crucial role in Tekken's rise to prominence. As eSports gained traction, Tekken tournaments and championships began to attract a dedicated and passionate player community. The franchise's balanced gameplay and depth of strategy has made it a favourite among competitive players, leading to the establishment of major tournaments and a thriving global eSports scene. Tekken may not be the oldest franchise, indeed, you could argue its the new kid on the block, but its undeniably one of the biggest in the fight game community. 

From its humble beginnings in arcades to its status as a global gaming phenomenon, Tekken's journey is a testament to the power of innovation, creativity, and dedication within the gaming industry. The original Tekken release not only introduced players to a new era of 3D fighting games but also laid the groundwork for a franchise that continues to thrive and captivate audiences worldwide. As Tekken celebrates its legacy and looks toward the future, it remains a shining example of how a single game can transform into a cultural phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on the world of gaming.