The recently released fighting game Tekken 8 has implemented a controversial in-game shop with purchasable cosmetics, sparking criticism from fans who view the microtransactions as unnecessary and greedy.
Tekken 8 developer Bandai Namco revealed plans to add a “Tekken Shop” post-launch, allowing players to acquire alternate character outfits and cosmetics. However, outfit packs cost 400 “Tekken Coins,” which in turn cost real money to obtain, requiring about $30 to purchase all current offerings.
Fans have expressed frustration that the microtransaction shop was not announced until after Tekken 8’s successful 2 million units sold launch. Many believe its late addition was intentional to avoid backlash affecting critical reviews.
Tekken 8 Surprise Microtransactions Seen as Betraying Franchise
https://twitter.com/TEKKEN/status/1763232726579134633
On Twitter and Reddit, players have voiced displeasure at the microtransactions being forced into a premium $60 game, especially since customization has been a free feature in past Tekken titles. Bandai Namco’s minimum $5 Tekken Coin bundle also draws ire for not matching costume pack costs.
In response to complaints, Tekken director Katsuhiro Harada defended the microtransactions by citing the rising development costs for modern fighting games. He stated servers for online modes are also expensive to maintain continuously.
Developer Cites Rising Costs Despite Strong Sales Performance
However, many fans remain unsatisfied with this rationale, arguing Bandai Namco should not ignore series traditions of free customization just to further monetize players. Some have pointed to the game’s robust sales numbers as evidence microtransactions are unnecessary.
The backlash reflects wider industry frustration with microtransactions creeping into premium games. Players feel publishers areprivileging profits over respect for player experience and franchises’ roots. While Bandai Namco defends its motivations, Tekken 8’s in-game shop risks tarnishing goodwill from its acclaimed core gameplay.
