A near-perfect translation of the home console version of Tekken 6 for the PSP, minus online multiplayer and the atrocious Campaign mode.

Game Summary

Popzara Rating

Namco Bandai continues its support for Sony's portable with a near-perfect replica of Tekken 6 for the PSP. With outstanding visuals, fluid gameplay, and and a significant amount of fighters to learn and master this is easily one of the most accomplished portable fighters yet. While this version retains nearly everything from its home-console version, there's not much left to the experience once you've unlocked everything and exhausted what (if any) local challenges are available. The lack of online multiplayer is a missed opportunity for longevity, but apart from that glaring omission there isn't much to complain about if you want a little Tekken in your pocket. Release Date: 11/24/09 ESRB Rating: T Publisher: Namco Bandai

Written by Herman Exum

When Tekken 6 finally arrived in console form for both the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 last month there was plenty to like about Namco Bandai's venerable fighting series.  The ability to engage in the most character-packed version of the series yet, combined with the same accessible gameplay and a multitude of available modes helped make for one of the year's most robust and exciting fighting experiences.  But the return of Jin Kazama and Mokujin were merely hinting at bigger (or smaller) things to come and the action was simply too intense for mere home consoles, as the 'King of Iron Fist' returns for another round of portable arcade-pummeling on the PSP.

Fans of the previous PSP iteration (Tekken 5: Dark Resurrection) will be be glad to know that the latest PSP version of the most recent arcade update (Bloodline Rebellion) remains relatively unchanged from its console bigger-brothers, with nearly every ounce of fighting action squeezed into one convenient portable package.  The graphics have been scaled-back to accommodate the PSP's lesser hardware, but still look great, and the native loading times between matches are even faster than they were at home.  Like its predecessor you can even install the game directly to a memory card from the UMD disc for even faster loading, and presumably more battery life.

Anyone who’s ever picked up any previous installment will still encourage even the most novice gamer and tournament-level pros alike thanks to the game-changing rage system that still adds that extra ounce of needed intensity, and let’s not forget the little things such as character customization, ghost, and challenge battles to complete this faithful little package. Of course like most things relating to the PSP there are some issues and nitpicking to be had especially the typically carpal-tunnel inducing form of the PSP and the impressive but still downscaled visuals but these qualms don’t really bring down the expected formula overall.

While Tekken 6 for the PSP is essentially a direct-port of the home console version, there are notable differences that manage to both enhance and detract from the overall experience.  Gone is the story-driven Campaign Scenario mode, which had even the most dedicated fans shaking their head in absolute shame thanks to its nonsensical plot and poor execution.  This is a noticeable omission as fans and critics alike voiced their universal displeasure with such a hackneyed way to tell Tekken's already melodramatic storyline, so good riddance to bad rubbish.

The rest of the game is practically a (miniaturized) carbon-copy of its bigger-brother, with full Arcade, Survival, Ghost, and Time Attack modes to keep you busy and work just like they sound.  The now-infamous Customization mode returns to help add some customizable craziness to the roster's staggering, yet sometimes familiar cast of characters.  New to the PSP is Gold Rush mode, which gives you the chance to win gold by inflicting the most devastating combos and attacks on your opponents - a must if you plan on purchasing in-game upgrades.

The PSP's native control scheme lends itself well to most fighting games, and this is especially true for the Tekken franchise.  With 2 kick/punch buttons and the game's near-auto blocking, there's a lot to learn and even more to master.  The d-pad is responsive in handling the most complex of combos, and I didn't have any trouble in replicating my favorite moves with the smaller face-buttons.  Of course, it goes without saying that true enthusiasts will miss the ability to add custom controllers and arcade sticks for the most arcade-perfect control, but let's remember this is a portable console we're dealing with and keep expectations in check.

Tekken 6 is a great fighting game that requires patience and skill to learn the intricate combo system and when best to apply it, presumably right into your opponents face.  While the PSP version features ad-hoc multiplayer modes, good luck rising to the top when your only way to challenge others is limited to those around you.  The lack of online multiplayer is sorely missed, and may be a deal breaker for fans looking to take on the world and show off their skills.  Playing solo or even with downloaded opponents in Ghost Mode can only last so long, so it might be best to think of this version as a good way to keep in practice when you're away from home.

Namco Bandai continues its support for Sony's portable with a near-perfect replica of Tekken 6 for the PSP.  With outstanding visuals, fluid gameplay, and and a significant amount of fighters to learn and master this is easily one of the most accomplished portable fighters yet.  While this version retains nearly everything from its home-console version, there's not much left to the experience once you've unlocked everything and exhausted what (if any) local challenges are available.  The lack of online multiplayer is a missed opportunity for longevity, but apart from that glaring omission there isn't much to complain about if you want a little Tekken in your pocket.