It sits more as a small extension to the preexisting mechanics. So it's not as flashy, nor - thankfully - as complex as other tag systems.

It means that as ever, perfecting timing and committing elongated combination strikes to memory is key to utilising the inclusion successfully. This extra Tag command (assigned to the shoulder button) will switch between your chosen team-mates, but the actual usefulness by way of dual attacks or combined throws comes by inputing it between the normal combo beats or jointly with traditional moves. It's been twelve years since the Tag feature was first introduced to the Tekken series, and while its the core to this sequel it doesn't dominate the experience - there's options to fight solo if you so wish, keeping things classic - while the tag team theatrics are far from the pyrotechnics witnessed in Capcom's Vs or X series, instead treated as extending combo chains (as with X, once one character falls its round over) by tagging in the other character during launchers and such to juggle opponents in the air for as long as possible. A Replay Theatre lets you watch matches with any character of your choice, and its a good way to see the more flamboyant and pro players work their magic - and a basis to start emulating their skills through study. As with every fighting game before it, this is where the real lessons are taught. Of course, even with training and a graded profile that promotes you through the level ranks, prepare to get pasted online. However, it'll give you a better understanding of the systems in play, and coupled with the usual practice mode gives you the tools to introducing you to the game. And the durability of the controller being bounced off the floor (memo: buy a fighting pad or joystick). This is mentioned primarily for Xbox 360 owners, who'll once more feel shafted due to the standard controller not cutting the mustard on the fighting circuit: simple inputs will become an issue and will test the patience. However, given some of the later stages offer multiple fights to practice different techniques, it'd have been good to have a mini-checkpoint system instead of being thrown back to the start. Fight Lab runs through the basics (there's an entire lesson dedicated just to using the stick/D-Pad to avoid attacks and bombs) to introducing the tag system that'll dominate higher end techniques with a light humour that means you don't feel the fool when you get techniques wrong.

Tekken tag tournament 2 reviews