Battle of the series: Tekken 2 vs. Tekken 3

To start this opinion, let me just say that this is a combined review comparing the pros and cons of the Tekken series. When I write a review comparing two products I rate in five categories: graphics, control, sound, replay, others. Each game in the series is graded on a scale from one to five at the end. So without any further blabbing, this is Tekken 2 vs. Tekken 3 in my view.

ABOUT THE TEKKEN SERIES:
Tekken games I belive are the most popular fighting games on the Playstation game console. You fight in a tournament with a character that you have selected. Each character has his/her own goals, and story-line. The fighters stories interconnect one way or another by the end of the game.

GRAPHICS:
Tekken 2- This game was a graphic marvel when it was in the arcades, and it carries on to the Playstation. The environments are 3D, but the backgrounds are flat. When it comes to characters, Tekken games have them. All the fighters graphics in this game are above average for it's time, though they tend to be blocky. In players such as Kuma, a huge bear, the polygons show that make him up. This is a downfall for the graphics, but they are overall very good, especially considering it's release date.

Tekken 3- The graphics in Tekken 3 are a vast improvement to those in the other Tekken games. The characters have been smoothed out as to not show the polygons like in the second game. The arcade backgrounds were full 3D, but unfortanutly that did not carry over. Instead you get some nice, colorful backgrounds even though they are flat. The ground is still fully 3D, and you can move anywhere in the area. I would have to say that these are top notch graphics.

CONTROLS:
Tekken 2- This game adds on to the legacy of Tekken games with big move combos and easy to learn throws. The layout is great, and never lets you down. The combo's may be tough to learn, but are mastered with practice in nothing else but practice mode. The other moves such as throws are easily preformed during fights, but not if you are fighting a friend that knows how to play. Tekken 2 is has a very well put together controlling system that never falls apart on you.

Tekken 3- Also adding to the legacy is Tekken 3. Almost the exact same in the controls, at least for the easy factor. The combos are still hard to learn, but once again practice mode is present. Throws are as simple as ever to preform, and so are the regular commands such as kick, punch, etc. The controls in this game are easy to do, and as perfect as Tekken 2's.

SOUND:
Tekken 2- The sound in this game fits the mood perfect, fast-paced at times, and classical at others. It all comes through your TV great and suits your fighting needs. The sound effects are excellent, and parallel to the in game music. Moans, grunts, hyyahs(what you say before a karate move, haha), all come in perfect. This rounds out an extremely beautiful soundtrack to complete the musical score.

Tekken 3- Again the makers know when they did something well, and keep the same type of form. They once again have the blend of Japanese classical with other types to create a moody environment. The grunts and stuff still come through crystal clear, and your opponent hitting the ground never sounded better.

REPLAY:
Tekken 2- Tekken two is a great game for anyone to play. Not only do you receive high quality graphics, sound, and controls, but also replay. You may wonder how a regular fighting game can captivate you like I say. Well, it's because this is no average fighting game. You start with a selection of about ten fighters. Each time you beat the game you win there ending CG cinema for the character. Not only that, but you also get a new fighter. In the end, their is over ten more fighters to be earned. Considering they all have their list of combos and moves, that will keep you playing for a long time.

Tekken 3- Also Tekken three presents a new cast of characters for beating the game with each. You collect there movies in a replay theater so you can watch them over again. You can also unlock more by beating the games various modes. Over thirty to collect in all. This will keep you playing for weeks to come. Not only that, but just wait until your friends come over and you've mastered all the fighters. More fun for you!

OTHERS:
Tekken 2- This game offers a good bit of modes to choose from. Their is arcade (fight the tournament), practice (you can practice on dummies, regular, with cpu AI, and more), two player (single fight, battle with up to 10 people in a tournament), and more. This game is full of surprises.

Tekken 3- This game offers a larger variety of modes including all the ones in Tekken 2 plus beach ball (try to beat your opponent while keeping it in the air), side scrolling fighting (fight enemies in a level then battle a boss), and more. This game is jam packed with cool features and bonus items.

OVERALL RANKINGS ON A SCALE TO FIVE:
Graphics- Tekken 2=4, Tekken 3=5
Controls- Tekken 2=5, Tekken 3=5
Sound- Tekken 2=5, Tekken 3=5
Replay- Tekken 2=4, Tekken 3=5
Others- Tekken 2=3, Tekken 3=5

FINAL WORDS FROM joe14 ON THE TEKKEN SERIES:
Both these games are of the highest quality and brand. If you are only going to choose one of the two (or three if you count the original) to buy then pick up a copy of Tekken 3. It has better graphics, replay, and a higher variety of modes. It will keep you gaming for months to come.