Tekken 8 veteran Anna Williams is back, and her redesigned look is sparking a mixed reaction. While many fans applaud the update, others aren't convinced, with some even drawing comparisons to Santa Claus. When a fan requested a return to Anna's classic design, Tekken director Katsuhiro Harada responded directly, acknowledging the dissenting opinions but firmly defending the new design.
Harada stated that while the vast majority of fans welcome the change, individual preferences are valid. He pointed out the availability of previous iterations for those who prefer the older design, emphasizing that the new design is not a replacement but a fresh interpretation. He further criticized the fan for speaking for all Anna fans and for their inconsistent and ultimately disrespectful feedback, highlighting the negativity directed towards the redesign despite prior demands for her return.
Another commenter criticized Tekken's lack of older game re-releases with updated netcode, prompting a terse response from Harada. The director's reaction, however, has not dampened the largely positive response to Anna's new look, with most of the criticism focusing on the outfit's resemblance to Santa Claus.
Many fans express appreciation for the updated design, particularly the new hair and leotard. However, the coat's resemblance to a Santa suit is a frequent point of contention. Some commenters feel the outfit is too bulky, lacking a clear focal point, and that the white fur trim on the red coat is too reminiscent of Santa Claus. Others feel the new design makes Anna appear younger and less like the "dominatrix" persona she previously embodied.
Despite the mixed reactions, Tekken 8's success is undeniable. The game has already sold 3 million copies, surpassing the sales pace of Tekken 7. IGN's review lauded Tekken 8's updated fighting mechanics, fun offline modes, new characters, improved online experience, and overall impressive quality, awarding it a 9/10 score.
