Have you ever wondered why classic Tekken games haven’t received the Tekken retro collection treatment like other fighting game series? While Capcom has released compilations of their beloved titles, Tekken’s producer Katsuhiro Harada explains why a similar collection for Tekken may not work. In this blog post, we’ll explore Harada’s reasoning and what it means for fans of the series.
Why Tekken’s Early Games May Not Age Well
According to Katsuhiro Harada, the main challenge in bringing back a collection of classic Tekken games is how poorly early polygonal graphics have aged. He argues that 3D fighting games like Tekken rely heavily on their visual impact, and the graphics that once wowed fans don’t hold up well by today’s standards.
2D sprite-based games like those found in Capcom’s retro collections, don’t suffer from the same graphical aging issues. The simple sprites have a timeless appeal that makes them more suitable for modern re-releases.
Michael Murray’s Take on a Tekken Revival
Michael Murray, Tekken’s project producer, largely agrees with Harada’s assessment. However, he admits that he’d be more inclined to revisit less conventional entries in the series like Tekken Tag Tournament 2 or the Tekken Force and Devil Within modes, which offered more unique gameplay experiences beyond traditional fighting matches.
Murray explained that, while some fans might enjoy replaying older Tekken games, most players would probably prefer the latest iteration, given the fast evolution of 3D graphics and mechanics.
Difference Between 2D and 3D Fighting Games
| Feature | 2D Fighting Games | 3D Fighting Games |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics Style | Sprite-based | Polygonal |
| Aging Factor | Ages well due to simple design | Ages poorly as graphics become dated |
| Player Motivation | Focused on mechanics, less on visuals | Players attracted to cutting-edge visuals |
| Examples | Marvel vs Capcom, Street Fighter | Tekken, SoulCalibur |
Why Sprite-Based Games Stand the Test of Time
The charm of 2D sprite-based games like Marvel vs Capcom lies in their simplicity. These games are primarily loved for their gameplay mechanics, with the graphics acting as a bonus. Even decades later, the pixel art maintains its appeal, making these games easy to remaster for modern audiences.
Conclusion
while Capcom’s sprite-based games have found success in retro collections, a Tekken retro collection may not have the same appeal. The limitations of early 3D graphics and the focus on visual spectacle make it less likely that Tekken will follow the same retro revival trend. For fans eager to revisit the series, the best bet might be modern versions or remakes that can update the visuals and gameplay for today’s standards.
FAQs
Why won't a Tekken retro collection work?
Katsuhiro Harada believes the outdated polygonal graphics of early Tekken games don’t hold up well, making them less appealing for a modern re-release.
Why do 2D games age better than 3D games?
2D games use sprite-based graphics, which maintain their charm over time, whereas early 3D graphics quickly become outdated.
Which Tekken game modes could be worth revisiting?
Michael Murray suggests that modes like Tekken Tag Tournament 2 and Tekken Force could still offer a fun experience.
Has Capcom succeeded with retro collections?
Yes, Capcom’s Marvel vs Capcom Fighting Collection has been praised for successfully bringing back classic sprite-based games.
Is there any hope for a Tekken remake?
While a direct retro collection seems unlikely, remakes or modern reimaginings of popular Tekken titles could be possible.