The Muay Thai master, Fahkumram, is coming to Tekken 8. Check out the breakdown with developer Michael Murray, as he talks about character inspiration, influences, and the process behind bringing the fan favorite to the latest entry of Tekken.

Tekken 8 is adding Fahkumram, a Muay Thai champion and national hero of Thailand, as the second additional character in its Season 2 lineup. Producer Michael Murray provided an in-depth look at Fahkumram’s design, highlighting the character’s cultural roots, including traditional Thai tattoos and authentic Muay Thai fighting techniques. The development team collaborated with renowned fighter Nodaka Yoshinari to ensure realistic motion capture, resulting in faithful Muay Thai animations and heavy-hitting attacks.

Fahkumram is characterized by his imposing stature, powerful single-hit moves, and ability to control the fight with reach and strength. The character will be available for early access to Season 2 Pass holders, with a full release to follow. Further details are set to be announced in a dedicated livestream prior to the character’s launch.

Tekken 8: Fahkumram character developer overview

Hello, this is Michael, producer of Tekken 8. Tekken 8 is the latest numbered entry in the legendary 3D fighting game series, delivering the most exhilarating and intense battles in the franchise's history. Today, I'd like to introduce the second additional character of Season 2, Bakumram. Bakumram is a national hero of Thailand and an undefeated Muay Thai champion who reigns supreme. He made his first appearance in Tekken 7, instantly standing out with his towering physique, over 2 meters tall, and the striking markings on his body. These patterns are known as Lichtenberg figures, or lightning scars, said to have been etched into his skin when he miraculously survived a lightning strike as a child. Also known as the title Thunderstruck, he is known for his overwhelming power and high fight IQ in the ring. On his back, Bakumram bears a Sak Yant, a traditional Thai tattoo with spiritual meaning. This intricate design was personally drawn by a revered monk residing in Thailand. Each of the two sections, upper and lower, carries its own distinct significance. Traditionally, Sak Yant normally are kind of a ward that protects the fighter, but it also has various meanings, which could be strength, courage, health, or even success. So, particularly the tiger itself is usually used to symbol courage or strength. We hope players will take note of this detailed element as it embodies the deep cultural roots of both Thailand and Muay Thai. Interestingly, the same monk actually performed a blessing ceremony to pray for the success of Tekken 8. For Motion Capture, the team worked with Nodaka Yoshinari, the first Japanese fighter ever to unify both prestigious Muay Thai titles, Rajadamnan and Lumpini. And we have him here today. By incorporating Nodaka's movements, the team was able to deliver animations that truly capture the authenticity and impact of Muay Thai. So Nodaka, after actually doing the motion capture and then seeing the actual character, what did you think? I was able to do the motion capture, and I was really impressed by the faithful reproduction of the Muay Thai-specific heavy and sharp attacks. This character specializes in controlling the fight with his massive reach and powerful heavy-hitting Muay Thai techniques. He might not be the fastest, but his sheer power is a force to be reckoned with. If you enjoy characters who apply pressure with devastating single hits rather than relying on a flurry of smaller attacks, then this is the character for you. This character is the result of a collaborative effort, with many individuals contributing to the carefully crafted motion and design. Experience the exhilarating one-hit knockout potential that Fahkumram brings to the fight. So that's all about Fahkumram. He's actually personally one of my favorite characters in the series to date, so I can't wait to have everyone have their hands on him. Fahkumram will be available for Early Access starting July 8th or July 7th PDT for those who own the Season 2 Pass. The official release begins on July 11th or July 10th PDT. More details about Fahkumram will be revealed in a special livestream scheduled for the day before Early Access. Don't miss it.

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