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Tekken is one of the most popular game franchises of all time, with Tekken 7 being the most prominent due to its fluid gameplay and a huge roster of characters to choose from. However, this massive line-up might be overwhelming for new players or those looking for a character to select and master as their main fighter.
Not to worry, though. If you are someone trying to get into Tekken or are already a master of the game but need a change, then I present to you the definitive Tekken character tier list.
Note: This article is subjective and reflects the writer's opinions.
Definitive tier list for Tekken 7 characters for January 2024
1) S+-tier
- Akuma
- Geese Howard
- Feng Wei
- Kunimitsu
The characters in this category require heavy precision and need stable execution. Akuma is the most prominent S+-tier character who was nerfed many times but still boasts immense damage potential and devastating combos. Akuma's moveset draws from Street Fighter. Geese Howard is another S+ character that packs some of the strongest single-hit damage in Tekken-7, with moves like "Raging Storm" potentially ending the round instantly.
If you are someone who enjoys the ultimate challenge and wants rewarding combos that bring the highest damage percentages, then these characters are for you.
2) S-tier
- Jin Kazama
- Kazuya Mishima
- Zafina
- Steve Fox
- Brian Fury
- Noctis Lucis Caelum
- Leo Kliesen
- Claudio Serafino
The S-tier characters are undoubtedly some of the best in the whole franchise. Characters like Jin Kazama offer a rewarding learning curve, mastered by both aggressive pressure and patient counter-punching, catering to diverse playstyles. Just below Jin is Kazuya Mishima, who is known for his powerful blows,lightning-fast combos, and devastating throws.
We also have Steve Fox, who thrives on applying constant pressure, dictating the pace of the fight with his fast jabs and unpredictable movement. Landing intricate combos with Steve feels incredibly satisfying due to his unique stance transitions and high damage output.
3) A-tier
- Heihachi Mishima
- Hwoarang
- Nina Williams
- Kazumi Mishima
- Armor King
- Marduk
- Josie Rizal
- Bob
- Sergei Dragunov
- Miguel
- Lidia
- Julia
The A-tier characters are an interesting bunch because you never know when you will get hit by the iconic Electric Wind God Fist. Heihachi requires precise timing, execution, and strategic thinking combined with satisfying high-level combos and mix-ups, making him a popular choice for competitive players seeking mastery.
Hwoarang is another A-tier character whose extensive move list allows for complex strings with frame-perfect options. Hwoarang possesses four stances, each with unique moves and properties. These are fairly competitive fighters, and this section has some of the most played characters in the history of Tekken.
4) B-tier
- King
- Marshall Law
- Eddy Gordo
- Paul Phoenix
- Yoshimitsu
- Shaheen
- Lars Alexanderson
- Negan
- Jack - 7
- Lei Wulong
- Ganryu
- Lee Chaolan
- Leroy Smith
- Katarina Alves
- Lili
- Ling Xiaoyu
- Master Raven
- Eliza
The B-tier contains balanced characters that offer a fun yet struggling experience in matches against the characters in the upper tiers. King might be the most prominent in B-tier due to his distinctive playstyle, intricate chain grabs, and mix-ups that can completely dismantle opponents if executed correctly. King embodies the "grappler" archetype, relying on throws, grabs, and powerful command throws to control the opponent and deal hefty damage.
Additionally, Marshall Law, who is yet another legacy character, has some of the fastest jabs and poke tools in the game, which allows him to control the neutral space and initiate pressure.
5) C-tier
- Fahkumram
- Devil Jin
- Alisa Bosconovitch
- Lucky Chloe
- Asuka Kazama
- Anna Williams
The C-tier requires an innovative approach because of its low-damage combos and lower effectiveness against upper-tier characters. Characters like Fahkumram don't rely on graceful kicks or fast jabs. Instead, he utilizes a brutal blend of wrestling throws, heavy slams, and bone-crushing punches. His grappler archetype, featuring grabs and ground game, contrasts heavily with most of Tekken's combo-heavy characters.
Another such fighter on the list is none other than Devil Jin. Despite being heavily nerfed, he still boasts a potent mix of Kazuya's raw power and Jin's technical prowess. Devil Jin's move set is fast, flashy, and packed with devastating combos, making him a rewarding character to master.
6) D-tier
- Gigas
- Kuma
- Panda
The D-tier characters are the weakest in the game due to their small move list and ineffective damage percentages during competitive matches. A character like Gigas, who has a massive character model, makes him a big target for opponents, and his lack of movement options makes it difficult to avoid being hit. His key moves are punishable on block, meaning opponents can launch him into combos if they block his attacks.
That said, his long arms and legs give him excellent poke and counter-hit potential. The same is the case with Kuma and Panda; they have sluggish movement, which also hinders their ability to evade incoming attacks. While they have powerful moves, their combo potential is generally limited to other characters. This makes it harder for them to capitalize on openings and secure consistent damage.
These characters are fun to play with and can be used to troll others. They have a casual approach in the not-so-casual setting of Tekken 7.
That covers our Tekken 7 tier list for January 2024. Follow Sportskeeda to get an updated tier list of fighting games.
