A cult classic in the battle game world, Tekken knows how to throw a punch—and a fashionable look! The eighth edition of the cult classic game is serving some of the most stylish collaborations yet, proving that fighting can be fabulous. Take a look at the Tekken fashion collaborations below.
What exactly is Tekken?
For the uninitiated, Tekken translates to “Iron Fist” in Japanese – the crux of the media franchise. The storyline focuses on the ‘King of Iron Fist Tournament’ where multiple characters fight for the championship and the three generations of strained father – son relationships between Heihachi Mishima, Kazuya Mishima and Jin Kazama. With the three characters at the center – Tekken a battle arcade game was born in 1994 , as one of the first games to incorporate 3D animation. Brought to life by Japanese video game developer Bandai Namco Entertainment, formerly known as Namco, over the years not only did it become a cult favourite but also ballooned into a mega franchise. Today Tekken boasts more than nine additional game titles, eight spin-off games, feature films, anime and more. The more in question also pertains to unique fashion collaborations that merge the virtual world of Tekken with tangible style.
Tekken-inspired fashion collaborations
Considering both Nike and Gentle Monster released back-to-back collections and designs in collaboration with the latest Tekken 8, we take a closer look at all the noteworthy fashion collabs born out of Tekken fanaticism.
Gentle Monster x Tekken
Korean eyewear brand Gentle Monster has just launched one of their most exciting collections yet. The ‘Inferno’ capsule collection dives into the world of Tekken 8, featuring the devilish Kazuya Mishima and a frame inspired by his devil gene. The collaboration steps into virtual reality with an in-game replica of the shades as well. The Gentle Monster x Tekken collection is the latest in a series of iconic collaborations by the new-gen eyewear brand including the likes of Mugler, Jennie, and Maison Margiela. The avante-garde piece is a must-have both for Tekken fans and those of stylish eyewear. The collaboration will extend to in store pop ups for Gentle Monster which includes larger-than-character sculptures
Nike x Tekken
You can never have enough Tekken collabs, especially when it comes to sneakers. And the Nike x Tekken 8 collab was one that had been long coming. The two iconic Nike Air Foamposite Ones in the Jin Kazama and Kazuya Mishima colourways both contrast each other, one with the words “FATE,” and the other with the word “FIST.” The flashy sneakers are a steal for all sneakerheads and Tekken fans alike in a collaboration that puts two brands’ and franchises’ legacies together.
PRIX x Tekken
In the beginning of last year, the label PRIX launched a capsule collection that was almost instantly sold out. The subject – Tekken 3 and three fan favourite characters – Jin Kazama, Yoshimitsu, and King. From printed T-shirts to joggers and a full set of King’s in-game outfit, the collection was edgy and honest to source. Now, PRIX has restocked the collection in their online stores. What are you waiting for? Grab yours now.
Uniqlo x Tekken
In what seems to be the most natural collaboration – Japanese fashion brand Uniqlo and Tekken have collaborated on more than one occasion for wearable Tekken merch. With Tekken 8, the brand now has playable designs in the game amongst other features. Their Tekken printed Tees are some of the fastest-selling Tekken collectables.
Supreme x Yohji Yamamoto x Tekken
For Supreme’s Fall/Winter 2022 collection, Supreme and Yohji Yamamoto came together for a second collaboration, which was surprisingly – Tekken-inspired. The video game collab saw jumpers, hoodies, T-shirts, skateboards, and bombers, with a mix of influences of all three brands and prints inspired by the older Tekken. The prints could also be related to Yamamoto’s early graphic work, a truly interesting set of designs worthy of the iconic three-way collaboration.
Hero and Feature images: Courtesy Gentle Monster.