I got the chance to spar for a few rounds this morning in the yet to be released, Tekken 7: Fated Retribution, at Evo 2016.

Tekken 7: Fated Retribution’s combat remains as smooth as ever. Combos have a beautiful flow to them, which helps retain the addictive quality that has been a hallmark of the Tekken series.

A stunning image of the back of theWatchman’s head as he plays Tekken 7: Fated Retribution at Evo 2016

Tekken 7: Fated Retribution features a notable appearence from one of the most deadly characters from the Street Fighter universe, the demonic Akuma.

Although the style of gameplay between the Street Fighter and Tekken franchises is vastly different, I’m pleased to report that Akuma’s integration into Tekken 7 feels very natural.

Akuma retains his arsenal of signature moves. He’s still able to throw fireballs, both on the ground and in the air, and he still has short Hurricane Kicks, which fit well into combos. Akuma also retains the always terrifying Raging Demon. However, none of these tools makes him feel over powered or out of place within the context of the language that is Tekken.

I also had a quick run with Lucky Chloe, who provoked a bit of controversy when she was initially revealed.

Lucky Chloe felt like she had a nice flow in her moveset. It reminded me of the way I felt when I first tried Eddy Gordo, or Hwoarang in Tekken 3, way back in the arcades in 1997.

Graphically, Tekken 7: Fated Retribution is absolutely stunning, as one would expect for a title developed for this generation of consoles. Background areas feel alive with activity, lending the game a vibrant energy that adds to its appeal.

We still have a way to go until we all get a chance to bring Tekken 7 into our lives.

During Microsoft’s E3 2016 press event, Tekken series producer, Katsuhiro Harada announced that Tekken 7: Fated Retribution will be released on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in early 2017, in order to add an in-depth story mode at launch.

Will you be ready to accept Tekken 7: Fated Retribution into your life next year? Testify in the comments section below.