Parents' Guide to

Tekken

By Paul Semel, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Simple but fun version of classic fighting game.

App iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android Free Action Games
Tekken Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this app.

  • Tekken: screenshot #1
  • Tekken: screenshot #2
  • Tekken: screenshot #3

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What’s It About?

As with the previous games in this series -- which have been available on consoles and computers -- this mobile version of TEKKEN has you competing in the King of Iron Fist tournament. Though, as always, there may be more going on than just your usual fight club. Playing as a number of colorful characters, players use simple touch controls to land a series of punches and kicks in an attempt to beat down their competition. But while this does add cards that can trigger special attack moves, this version has been simplified compared to other takes on the franchise.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say Not yet rated
Kids say (2):

While this fighting game doesn't have the depth of its console or computer counterparts, its solid controls do make this one of the better brawlers for mobile systems. Like other versions, this version of Tekken casts you as one of the colorful contestants of the King of Iron Fist tournament. Using simple controls, it does a good job of replicating this popular and long-running series, especially since it adds a card system that lets you deploy special attacks. It also features numerous colorful characters to play as, along with a lot of interesting locations to have them duke it out. But longtime fans of the series may not like how it also employs many tenets of free-to-play games -- like how your characters don't regain their health in between fights; you have to heal them with pickups you buy or earn. This version also doesn't have a deep combo attack system like the ones played at home. Still, if you love fighting games and need something to work out the frustrations of your commute, Tekken is one fight club you'll want to talk about.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about violence in video games. In terms of how you feel, does it make a difference that Tekken has you beating up other people, as opposed to aliens or robots? Why do you think that is?

  • Talk about gender bias and violence. In this game, male characters get into fights with other men, but also with women. How do you feel when you're playing as a man in a fight with a woman?

  • Discuss money management. Since you can earn in-game money by playing, does it make sense to spend any real money on this game? Or rather, does it make sense to spend a lot of money on this game?

App Details

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