Originally published May 2, 2017. Updated April 16, 2018.
Chris Cooper reviews Tekken #1…
All new comic series based on the iconic fighting game franchise! Written by Cavan Scott (Doctor Who, Vikings) and illustrated by Andie Tong! This sensational new comic series will tap into TEKKEN’s rich history, and will feature memorable characters from the celebrated video game canon including Jin, Heihachi Mishima, Yoshimitsu, Nina Williams and Paul Phoenix.
Fighting games and stories generally have a pretty tenuous relationship. So many characters, so many motivations to get them all in the same place, and ultimately only one canon story to tell between them all.
It’s a convoluted arrangement, only recently improved upon by NetherRealm Studios and their Mortal Kombat and Injustice games, by splitting story mode into character based chapters.
Injustice has since gone on to have a very popular comic book series based on it. So why can’t another big fighting franchise?
Enter…the Tekken!
Titan comics have taken on the duties and overall this first issue succeeds.
Taking it’s cue from the game series, the story revolves around the Mishima bloodline and the…let’s say fraught…relations between the different generations.
Writer Cavan Scott wisely hasn’t tried to over-complicate things, making it friendly for newcomers whilst giving those who know their Roger from their Alex a chance to enjoy things.
A number of characters are introduced quickly, but it never feels like much, especially with some handy introductory panels. It’s a lot like a superhero team-up story in how it doesn’t muck around getting things in place, and with it only being a four issue arc I appreciate that.
On the visual side of things it’s muddled. Whilst I like the first few pages emulating the game it’s very glossy and very busy, which jars with Andie Tong’s scratchier lines. It’s solid work, with everyone looking as they should; therefore ridiculous in any normal setting! As you’d expect there are several fights and they’re handled well. It’s clear and I’m pretty sure I see a few moves from the games being used. A nice touch.
I’ll be honest with you guys, I wasn’t expecting much from this. But I’m pleasantly surprised. If issue two can keep up the energy and introduce some more story then we’re onto a winner.
Rating: 7/10
Chris Cooper
