Genre: 3d Fighter
Developer: Namco
Publisher: Namco

Tekken 5's 60 fps visuals are technically stunning; tons of special effects, ultra high polygon count models, intricately detailed stages, and some occasionally wonderful artwork make for the best use of the PSP's power that I have yet seen. I do qualify however that the artwork is a little inconsistent, as a few of the stages are a bit ugly and some of the character idle animation looks like something out of Fighter Maker.

The soundtrack fuses traditional Japanese themes and instruments with high-intensity orchestral and techo vibes to form a collection of songs that could simply be described as "generic 3d fighter music". When accompanied by the usual collection of fighter sound effects and some interesting voice work, the aural experience reasonably compliments Tekken's bizarre combination of fighting bears, Virtua Fighter-esque martial artists, and high-tech trimming.

No one will argue that Tekken's gameplay is as deep or technical as Virtual Fighter's. Some will rightfully argue that Tekken is more fluid, open, and prone to unpredictable happenings. Some clever programming has solved the original PSP's terrible d-pad, and the speed, variety, balance, and playability of the Tekken 5 experience coverts perfectly to the PSP.

Tekken 5 is the Street Fighter Alpha 3 of 3d fighters, taking the approach of "more is better", an approach that often serves as nothing more than a vehicle by which to deliver unbalanced gameplay. Surprisingly, none of Tekken 5's characters seem to be unreasonably powerful or playable, and the sheer volume of characters, stages, customizable features, and play modes means that the core gameplay dynamics, however fun or frustrating they may prove, can be experienced in a multitude of manners.