The hardest boss in Tekken 7 is widely considered to be Akuma. Featured prominently in the game's story mode, The Mishima Saga, Akuma, who originally hails from the Street Fighter series, poses a unique and formidable challenge unlike any other opponent in Tekken 7, released in 2017.
Why Akuma is Considered the Hardest
Akuma's difficulty stems from his distinct fighting style and mechanics, which are borrowed from 2D fighting games, setting him apart from the traditional 3D combat of Tekken. This hybrid approach often catches players off guard.
- Unique Mechanics: Unlike standard Tekken characters, Akuma utilizes a "Super Meter" (often referred to as an EX Meter) that allows him to perform enhanced versions of his special moves (EX moves) and his powerful Rage Arts, the "Messatsu Gohado" and "Shun Goku Satsu" (Raging Demon). These moves can deal immense damage and bypass typical Tekken defensive options.
- Aggressive AI and High Damage Output: Akuma's artificial intelligence is highly aggressive, frequently utilizing fast, high-damaging combos and special moves that can quickly deplete a player's health bar. His fireballs (Gohadoken) and dragon punches (Goshoryu) have excellent range and priority, making it difficult to approach him safely.
- Input Reading: The AI often appears to "read" player inputs, executing counter-attacks or evasive maneuvers with precision, making standard strategies less effective.
- Raging Demon: His ultimate Rage Art, the "Shun Goku Satsu" or "Raging Demon," is particularly infamous. It's a cinematic attack that instantly defeats the player if it connects, regardless of remaining health, and is frequently used by the AI when Akuma is in Rage state.
Strategies to Overcome Akuma
Defeating Akuma requires a different mindset and approach compared to other Tekken fights.
- Understand His Meter: Pay attention to his Super Meter. When it's full, be prepared for his powerful EX moves or a potential Raging Demon.
- Punish Whiffs and Block: Akuma's moves, while strong, can leave him vulnerable if they miss or are blocked. Learning his frame data and punishing his recovery frames is crucial.
- Sidestep Effectively: Many of Akuma's projectile and linear attacks can be sidestepped, opening him up for counter-attacks.
- Utilize Rage Arts/Drives: Your own character's Rage Art can sometimes be used to interrupt Akuma's animations or as a last-resort damage burst. Rage Drives can also provide armor or unique offensive opportunities.
- Patience and Defense: Rushing in blindly against Akuma is often a recipe for defeat. A more defensive, patient approach, focusing on blocking and punishing, often yields better results.
Other Challenging Opponents in Tekken 7
While Akuma stands out, Tekken 7 features other formidable bosses in its story and arcade modes.
| Boss Name | Challenge Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Akuma | Very High | Unique 2D mechanics, high damage, input-reading AI, instant-kill Raging Demon. |
| Kazuya Mishima | High | Powerful Devil Gene abilities, strong offensive pressure, and a challenging final form. |
| Devil Kazuya | High | Kazuya's transformed state, featuring enhanced power, speed, and devastating laser attacks. |
| Heihachi Mishima | Moderate-High | A traditional Tekken powerhouse with strong fundamentals, aggressive rushdown, and powerful combos. |
Akuma truly tests a player's adaptability and understanding of different fighting game mechanics, solidifying his reputation as Tekken 7's most challenging boss.
