Tekken 7 Tier List (January 2025) Best Characters, Fighters

Welcome to the ultimate Tekken 7 tier list of 2025! The Tekken series has consistently grown in popularity over the years and has become an essential name in the fighting game genre. Tekken 7 is no exception, offering an engaging and exhilarating experience for gamers of all skill levels. Knowing which characters are the strongest and most viable for competitive play is essential for making the most out of this game. That's why we've created this comprehensive tier list to help you pick the best character for your play style and maximize your chances of victory.

In this article, we'll be ranking the best characters in Tekken 7 based on their overall strength, versatility, and ease of use. These rankings are determined by combining factors such as a character's damage output, speed, mix-up potential, and efficacy in professional play. Keep in mind that tier lists are not set in stone and that they can vary depending on skill level, individual play style, and personal preferences. So, without further ado, let's dive right into the character's Tier List for 2025and explore the best characters in the game!

Also Useful: The Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown Tier List (2025)

What To Look For While Choosing The Right Characters in Tekken 7?

When choosing the right character in Tekken 7, there are several factors to consider. Picking the best fit based on your play style, preferences, and skill level can greatly impact your success and enjoyment of the game. Below are some key aspects to consider while making your choice:

• Playstyle: Determine your preferred play style. Do you like to play aggressively, going for constant pressure and mix-ups, or would you prefer a more defensive style, patiently waiting for your opponent to make a mistake? Some characters are better suited for a specific play style, so knowing your preferences can help narrow down your options.
• Character's strengths and weaknesses: Analyze each character's unique set of strengths, weaknesses, and abilities. This may include their combo potential, speed, range, mix-up options, and overall versatility. Pick a character that complements your strengths and minimizes your weaknesses.
• Execution difficulty: Some characters have easier execution requirements than others, meaning their moves and combos are more accessible to players, especially for those new to the game. If you are just starting, you may want to opt for a character with more manageable execution requirements.
• Competitive viability: If you plan to participate in tournaments or play at a high level, choosing a character with a proven track record in the competitive scene could be beneficial. Check tier lists, watch professional matches, and pay attention to the prevailing meta to determine which characters are considered the strongest in the current game version.
• Personal connection or affinity: Sometimes, the key to choosing the right character is simply finding one that resonates with you on a personal level. This could be because of their visual design, back story, fighting style, or animations. The more you enjoy playing a character, the more likely you are to invest time and effort into mastering them.

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Tekken 7 Tier List (January 2025)

Explore the dynamic world of Tekken 7 with our comprehensive tier list, ranking the game's diverse roster of fighters. Discover the most formidable characters and gain valuable insights to dominate the competition.

Tekken 7 S Tier List 2025: The Creme de la Creme

The S-Tier characters in Tekken 7 are the cream of the crop, boasting exceptional strength, versatility, and potential for winning matches. These characters are incredibly powerful and feature a diverse range of moves and abilities that make them popular choices amongst professional players. It's hard to go wrong with any of these elite fighters, but mastering their unique playstyles can require practice and dedication.

• Geese Howard
• Leroy
• Akuma
• Fahkumram
• Julia
• Steve

Tekken 7 A Tier List 2025: Strong Contenders

A-Tier characters are strong contenders in Tekken 7, offering a solid mix of damage, speed, and utility. While not quite as dominant as the S-Tier, these characters still excel in competitive play and can certainly carry you to victory in the right hands. With a variety of playstyles available in this tier, there's likely an A-Tier character that perfectly suits your preferences.

• Claudio
• Kazumi
• King
• Paul
• Bryan
• Dragunov
• Feng
• Jin
• Marduk
• Miguel
• Ganryu
• Jack 7

Tekken 7 B Tier List 2025: Balanced Brawlers

The B-Tier is filled with balanced brawlers that can hold their own in most matchups. While they may not have the raw power or utility of higher-tier characters, their well-rounded nature makes them accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of players. Mastering a B-Tier character might take some effort, but the reward is a character that is adaptable and versatile in a variety of situations.

• Lili
• Eliza
• Kazuya
• Lidia
• Heihachi
• Law
• Shaheen
• Kunimitsu
• Josie
• Lee
• Devil Jin

Tekken 7 C Tier List 2025: Underdog Challengers

Characters in the C-Tier are underdog challengers, overshadowed by those in higher tiers but still capable of getting the job done. While they may require extra effort or specific strategies to overcome their limitations, dedicated players can still achieve success with these fighters. Don't be afraid to try them out, as they can be powerful tools for surprising unsuspecting opponents.

• Zafina
• Bob
• Alisa
• Eddy
• Asuka
• Leo
• Raven
• Negan
• Xiaoyu
• Nina

Tekken 7 D Tier List 2025: Tricky Picks

D-Tier characters are tricky picks that may present difficulties in terms of execution, efficiency, or overall power. While they often have unique playstyles and some dedicated fanbases, they generally struggle in competitive play and require a deeper understanding of their mechanics to succeed. Picking a D-Tier character may be challenging, but the reward is the opportunity to outmaneuver opponents in unconventional ways.

• Kuma
• Anna
• Hwoarang
• Lars
• Lucky Chloe
• Panda

Tekken 7 E Tier List 2025: Clunky Yet Creative

The E-Tier consists of niche, clunky yet creative fighters that require a bit more work and ingenuity to win matches. These characters often feature unconventional mechanics that might not immediately lend themselves to competitive play. However, players who invest time in learning their intricacies might be able to exploit these unique playstyles to catch opponents off guard.

• Yoshimitsu
• Noctis
• Armored King

Tekken 7 F Tier List 2025: Uphill Battle

Lastly, the F-Tier is home to characters that face an uphill battle in Tekken 7. They often suffer from a lack of damage, speed, or versatility compared to their counterparts in higher tiers. While it's generally not recommended to choose these characters in a competitive setting, they can still provide some entertainment for casual play or for those seeking an extra layer of challenge.

• Gigas
• Katarina
• Lei

Tekken 7 Screw List 2025 (Twist and Shatter Your Opponent's Defense)

The Screw technique is a combo-extending maneuver that launches the opponent in a spinning motion, leaving them vulnerable to follow-up attacks. Characters that excel in this category can effectively increase their combo damage and pressure the opponent consistently.

• Julia
• Dragunov
• Devil Jin.

Tekken 7 Power Crush List 2025 (Unleash Your Strength and Overwhelm Your Foes)

The Power Crush technique allows fighters to absorb damage while performing specific moves, making it an excellent tool for countering and maintaining offensive pressure. These moves are vital for turning the tide in battle and can be game-changing when utilized correctly.

• Paul
• King
• Bryan

Tekken 7 Wall Bounce List 2025 (Bounce Your Way to Victory)

The Wall Bounce mechanic presents an opportunity to extend combos even further by causing your opponent to bounce off walls, allowing for some devastating follow-up attacks. Timing and precision are crucial to maximizing the damage potential of Wall Bounce.

• Geese Howard
• Leroy
• Claudio

Tekken 7 Auto Combo List 2025 (A Simple Yet Powerful Combination)

The Auto Combo feature is perfect for beginner players, allowing them to execute a series of basic moves by repeatedly pressing a single button. This streamlined feature gives newcomers a taste of power and an introduction to character-specific combos.

• Jin
• Lili
• Josie

Tekken 7 Rage Arts List 2025 (Channel Your Rage and Unleash Devastating Finishing Moves)

Rage Arts are powerful and cinematic finishing moves that can only be used when a character is low on health (when their health gauge is flashing red). These high-damage moves can make a significant difference in battle, potentially turning the tide in a player's favor.

• Akuma
• Fahkumram
• Steve

Tekken 7 Rage Drives List 2025 (Harness the Power of Rage to Fuel Your Rush)

Rage Drives are special moves that characters can execute when their health is low, and their Rage Meter is active. These moves often improve the character's speed, damage, and utility, all in a balanced yet potent exchange.

• Kazumi
• Marduk
• Shaheen

Tekken 7 Characters Explained

Gain a tactical edge in Tekken 7 as we dissect each character, unveiling their unique strengths, weaknesses, and strategies. Uncover the pros and cons of each fighter, enabling you to make informed choices and steer clear of less suitable contenders. Master the art of character selection and elevate your gameplay to new heights.

1. Geese Howard (S-Tier):

Pros: High damage output, strong mix-ups, reliable counters, and powerful projectiles.

Cons: Difficult execution, limited mobility, and reliance on meter management.

Recommended for: Players who enjoy 2D fighters, high-risk-high reward playstyle, or excel at parries and spacing.

Avoid if: You're new to the game or have difficulties with execution-heavy characters.

2. Leroy (S-Tier):

Pros: Easy execution, strong mix-ups, excellent parry, and versatile tools for offense and defense.

Cons: Some of his moves have been toned down in recent patches.

Recommended for: Players who love flashy moves, strong mix-up games, or those new to Tekken.

Avoid if: You prefer range-heavy playstyles or projectile-based zoning.

3. Akuma (S-Tier):

Pros: High damage output, powerful combos, mix-up-heavy offense, and effective projectiles.

Cons: Highly execution-heavy, relies heavily on meters, and can struggle defensively.

Recommended for: Street Fighter fans, 2D fighter enthusiasts, and players who love high offense playstyles.

Avoid if: You're new to Tekken, or prefer a more defensive playstyle.

4. Fahkumram (S-Tier):

Pros: Great range of pokes, strong pressure tools, powerful mix-ups, and damaging wall combos.

Cons: Weak to side-stepping and susceptible to punishment.

Recommended for: Players who enjoy bullying opponents with pressure and strong grappling elements.

Avoid if: You dislike big character hitboxes or struggle with proper spacing techniques.

5. Julia (S-Tier):

Pros: Strong mix-up potential, fast pokes, flexible playstyle, and high combo damage.

Cons: Execution can be tricky and relies on making big reads.

Recommended for: Players who like mix-ups, aggressiveness, and party-crashing tools.

Avoid if: You struggle with execution or want more simple game plans.

6. Steve (S-Tier):

Pros: Excellent counter-hit tools, evasive stances, great defensive options, and unique boxing-style moves.

Cons: Limited low attacks and engages in a relatively complex stance transition game.

Recommended for: Defensive players, counter-hit specialists, or boxing enthusiasts.

Avoid if: You prefer simple gameplay or rush-down-style play.

7. Claudio (A Tier):

Pros: Strong mid-range pokes, good counter-hit tools, unique Starburst mechanic, and easy execution.

Cons: Limited low attacks and predictable high-low mix-ups.

Recommended for: Players who like spacing out their opponents, mid-range gameplay, and accessible characters.

Avoid if: You want a more technical or mix-up-heavy character.

8. Kazumi (A Tier):

Pros: Simple yet effective moveset, strong pokes, great space control, and a reliable low-poke game.

Cons: Limited combo potential and predictable offensive options.

Recommended for: Beginners or players who prefer a fundamental, poke-based playstyle.

Avoid if: You enjoy flashy combos or gimmicky playstyles.

9. King (A Tier):

Pros: Strong grappler archetype, fearsome throws, good mix-ups, and solid striking tools.

Cons: Struggles without successful throw execution and can be predictable.

Recommended for: Grappling enthusiasts, wrestling fans, or players who enjoy a strong throw game.

Avoid if: You dislike command throws or prefer fast combo-focused characters.

10. Paul (A Tier):

Pros: High damage output, simple moveset, great mix-up potential, and effective whiff punishment tools.

Cons: Linear gameplay and struggles against turtling opponents.

Recommended for: Newcomers, pick-up-and-play players, or those who enjoy explosive damage.

Avoid if: You prefer a more complex, stance-based character or evasion-focused gameplay.

11. Bryan (A Tier):

Pros: Powerful counter-hit tools, damaging wall combos, excellent keep-out game, and long-range pokes.

Cons: Difficult execution and weak low poke game.

Recommended for: Defensive players, counter-hit specialists, or those interested in high-risk/high-reward playstyle.

Avoid if: You struggle with execution or prefer more rush-down-based gameplay.

12. Dragunov (A Tier):

Pros: Strong poking game, versatile move repertoire, effective at various ranges, and lethal wall pressure tools.

Cons: Lacks evasive tools and struggles against strong defensive play.

Recommended for: Players who love balanced, flexible characters, or excel at wall pressure.

Avoid if: You prefer hit-and-run tactics or evasive playstyles.

13. Feng (A Tier):

Pros: Diverse moveset, great evasive tools, strong mix-ups, and versatile stances.

Cons: Can struggle to launch opponents and requires high read capabilities.

Recommended for: Players who love evasive playstyles, and stances, or those who can adapt quickly in a match.

Avoid if: You're a novice player or prefer a more straightforward approach.

14. Jin (A Tier):

Pros: Exceptional all-round abilities, strong poking, balanced moveset, and effective parries.

Cons: Challenging execution and less potent mix-ups than other Mishimas.

Recommended for: Tekken fans who love well-rounded characters, methodical play, or poking strategies.

Avoid if: You're seeking a more aggressive, mix-up-heavy character.

15. Marduk (A Tier):

Pros: Powerful throw game, high damage output, strong mix-ups, and a unique tackle mechanic.

Cons: Tall stature makes him vulnerable to high attacks and may struggle in close-quarter combat.

Recommended for: Grapplers, American football fans, or players who love an imposing presence.

Avoid if: You prefer nimble, smaller characters or mobility-centric gameplay.

16. Miguel (A Tier):

Pros: High damage output, excellent pressure tools, strong pokes, and a fluid playstyle.

Cons: Struggles at longer ranges and can be prone to punishment.

Recommended for: Players who like staying in the opponent's face, aggressive play, or controlling the pace of the match.

Avoid if: You prefer a more deft, long-range playstyle or zoning.

17. Ganryu (A Tier):

Pros: Powerful low attacks, good reach, versatile grabs, and effective stance transitions.

Cons: Slow movement, struggles against pressure, and can be predictable at times.

Recommended for: Sumo wrestling fans, players who love quirky movements, or strong low attacks.

Avoid if: You prefer fast movement or mix-heavy gameplay.

18. Jack 7 (A Tier):

Pros: Simple moveset, strong mid-high mix-ups, great keep-out tools, and high damage output.

Cons: Limited mobility, susceptible to being sidestepped, and struggles against rush-down-style play.

Recommended for: Players who love zoning, powerful pokes, or intimidating robotic designs.

Avoid if: You enjoy evasive gameplay or a more graceful fighting style.

19. Lili (B-Tier):

Pros: High evasion capability, strong wall game, fast and deceptive low attacks, and easy combos.

Cons: Lacks safe pokes and can be predictable.

Recommended for: Players who enjoy evasive playstyles, mix-ups, and acrobatic moves.

Avoid if: You prefer a cautious playstyle or excel at high-pressure gameplay.

20. Eliza (B-Tier):

Pros: Strong mix-ups, excellent zoning capability, good combination of 2D and 3D gameplay, and dive kick pressure.

Cons: Reliant on the meter and heavily dependent on effective zoning.

Recommended for: Players who love Street Fighter-esque gameplay, zoning, and powerful mix-ups.

Avoid if: You prefer simpler execution or a more traditional 3D gameplay experience.

21. Kazuya (B-Tier):

Pros: High damage potential, powerful 50/50 mix-ups, capable of strong comebacks, and effective in skilled hands.

Cons: Challenging execution and poor poke game.

Recommended for: Highly skilled players, fans of Mishima-style gameplay, or risk-takers.

Avoid if: You're a beginner or struggle with difficult execution requirements.

22. Lidia (B-Tier):

Pros: Good range on attacks, strong 50/50 mix-ups, and a versatile moveset.

Cons: Reliant on hard reads and can struggle against strong defensive play.

Recommended for: Players who value strong mix-up potential, fast movement, or political powerhouses.

Avoid if: You prefer a more reactionary playstyle or more accessible characters.

23. Heihachi (B-Tier):

Pros: High damage potential, strong wall game, variety of combo starters, and excellent pressure tools.

Cons: Challenging execution, less evasive than other Mishimas, and lacks reliable low pokes.

Recommended for: Players enjoying the Mishima style, high-risk gameplay, or mastering difficult characters.

Avoid if: You're new to Tekken or prefer to play it safe with strong low attack options.

24. Law (B-Tier):

Pros: Fast pokes, good mix-up potential, solid counter-hit tools, and easy-to-use moveset.

Cons: Predictable offense, and can be prone to pressure strategies.

Recommended for: Bruce Lee fans, aggressive players, or beginners looking for accessible characters.

Avoid if: You prefer unconventional moves or advanced strategies.

25. Shaheen (B-Tier):

Pros: Simple and effective moveset, good pokes, and strong 50/50 mix-ups.

Cons: Limited combo variety and predictable playstyle.

Recommended for: Players new to Tekken, those that appreciate military aesthetics, or fundamental gameplay enthusiasts.

Avoid if: You crave a more complex character or flashier moves.

26. Kunimitsu (B-Tier):

Pros: Agile movement, strong mix-ups, effective space control, and elusive stances.

Cons: Reliant on tricky moves and may struggle against aggressive opponents.

Recommended for: Players who love sneaky attacks, ninja-based characters, or confusing their opponents.

Avoid if: You prefer a straightforward approach or rely on powerful combos.

27. Josie (B-Tier):

Pros: Fast pokes, good mix-up potential, strong counter-hit game, and easy execution.

Cons: Predictable offensive patterns and lacks strong whiff punishment tools.

Recommended for: Players who enjoy the kickboxing style, aggressiveness, and fast-paced gameplay.

Avoid if: You play defensively or rely on zoning strategies.

28. Lee (B-Tier):

Pros: High combo potential, strong counter-hit tools, excellent poke game, and elusive movement.

Cons: Difficult execution and can struggle against strong defensive play.

Recommended for: Players who have a good execution, love stylish characters or excel at counter hits.

Avoid if: You're new to the game or prefer a more accessible character.

29. Devil Jin (B-Tier):

Pros: Well-rounded moveset, good mix-up potential, powerful wave dash, and utilizes Mishima-style gameplay.

Cons: Challenging execution and less potent high-low mix-ups than other Mishimas.

Recommended for: Players who appreciate versatile gameplay, demonic aesthetics, or Mishima-style characters.

Avoid if: You're new to Tekken or prefer less demanding execution.

30. Zafina (C-Tier):

Pros: Unique evasion abilities, strong mix-up potential, and unconventional moves.

Cons: Complex stances, reliant on hard reads, and requires strong matchup knowledge.

Recommended for: Players who enjoy unorthodox playstyles, high-risk-reward gameplay, or confusing their opponents.

Avoid if: You prefer a more straightforward character or struggle with stance transitions.

How To Get Better at Tekken 7?

Improving your Tekken 7 gameplay may seem like a daunting task with the game's technical depth and a massive roster of characters. However, with dedication, practice, and a focus on the key areas mentioned below, you'll undoubtedly see your skills improving over time.

• Fundamentals: Start by understanding the core fighting game mechanics, such as the Tekken 7 movement system, blocking, throw breaks, and basic attacks (such as jabs, lows, and mid attacks). It's crucial to build a strong foundation before moving on to advanced techniques.
• Learn a character: Select a character you enjoy and take the time to study their moves and combos. Stick with that character for a while, as it will help you build muscle memory and better understand the game mechanics.
• Combos and punishers: Practice your launchers, wall combos, punishers, and juggles. Being able to execute optimal combos for your character is essential, as it maximizes the damage dealt and capitalizes on your opponent's mistakes.
• Frame data: Study frame data to understand the properties of various moves. Learn which moves are safe or unsafe on the block, as well as the best punishers for each situation.
• Spacing and positioning: Develop a strong sense of spacing and stage awareness. Work on controlling the distance, staying out of your opponent's range or capitalizing on whiffed attacks. Maintain a mental map of the stage and ensure that you're positioning yourself optimally for wall combos or avoiding wall pressure.
• Matchup knowledge: Learn the strengths and weaknesses of each character and adjust your strategy accordingly. Knowing the habits and key moves of your opponent's character is crucial in anticipating and capitalizing on their actions.
• Adaptation: Be ready and open to changing your strategy during a match. Recognize your opponent's playstyle, whether they're aggressive or defensive, and adapt your game plan accordingly.
• Practice: Ensure regular practice, both online and offline. Experimenting against human opponents in different settings will significantly help in refining your skills.
• Review your matches: Analyze your gameplay by watching replays of your matches. Identify areas of improvement, such as missed opportunities, patterns in your playstyle, or moments of indecisiveness.
• Engage with the community: Join online forums, watch professional matches, and participate in local tournaments. Communicating with more experienced players and engaging with the Tekken 7 community will accelerate your growth as a player.

How To Unlock Characters in Tekken 7?

Unlocking characters in Tekken 7 is a relatively straightforward process. Unlike previous games in the franchise, Tekken 7 has done away with the need to complete specific challenges or slog through modes to unlock characters. Instead, almost all characters are available to play right from the start!

There are just a few exceptions, which include several DLC (downloadable content) characters that you won't have access to unless you purchase their respective packs. Here's what you need to do to unlock these additional characters:

• Purchase DLC characters/season passes: To unlock any character added to the game through DLC, you must buy their specific pack or the season pass that includes them. Characters like Geese Howard, Noctis, Leroy, and Fahkumram, for example, come from various DLC packs available for purchase through the PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, or Steam, depending on your platform.
• Download and install the characters: Once you've purchased the respective DLC, make sure to download and install the content on your system. The process may vary depending on the platform you're playing on, but it usually involves navigating to the respective store and accessing your account's download history.
• Access the characters in-game: After installing the additional content, the new characters should be available to select when you boot up Tekken 7. From here, enjoy playing your newly unlocked characters in any game mode.

Also Check: Dragon Ball FighterZ Tier List (2025)

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Our Tekken 7 tier list for 2025 provides a comprehensive breakdown of the best and worst characters currently dominating the game's meta. Keep in mind that this list is subject to change as new balance updates and character additions are introduced. However, it serves as an excellent starting point for crafting a versatile team or improving your gameplay. Whichever character you choose, remember that individual skill, practice, and determination are just as important as tier rankings.

Take this tier list as a valuable resource to gauge character potential, but don't forget to rely on your personal preferences and playstyle to hit that perfect synergy. After all, Tekken 7 is not just about winning – it's about enjoying the game and finding the characters you love. Now, get out there and make the most of your chosen fighters as you achieve new heights in the world of Tekken 7!