Only two Tekken characters, Nina Williams and Paul Phoenix, have been consistently playable in every major installment of the fighting game series since its inception. While King has also appeared in all games, he is represented by two distinct characters across the series' history.
Enduring Fighters: The Tekken Veterans
The Tekken series is renowned for its diverse roster of martial artists, but a select few have maintained their presence throughout every main game, solidifying their status as core figures in the King of Iron Fist Tournament.
Nina Williams
Nina Williams, the cold-blooded assassin, is one of the iconic characters who has been playable in all thirteen major Tekken games. Known for her unique blend of Aikido and Koppojutsu, Nina's intricate fighting style and enigmatic persona have made her a fan favorite and a constant fixture in the series' narrative. Her long-standing rivalry with her sister, Anna Williams, is a recurring storyline element.
Paul Phoenix
Paul Phoenix, the hot-headed American martial artist, stands alongside Nina as a character present in every single Tekken release. Specializing in powerful Judo-based techniques, Paul is famous for his signature "Phoenix Smasher" and his never-ending quest to prove himself as the universe's toughest fighter. Despite his comical failures, Paul's commitment to the tournament remains unwavering, making him a consistent and beloved character.
The Legacy of King
While King has been present in every Tekken game, his legacy is carried by two different individuals:
- King I: The original masked wrestler, King I, appeared in the first two Tekken games. He was an orphan who became a pro-wrestler to fund his orphanage.
- King II: Following the presumed death of King I, his protégé, King II, adopted the mask and fighting style, continuing his predecessor's mission. King II has been playable in all subsequent games, from Tekken 3 onwards. This transition ensures that the character of "King" has always been represented, albeit by different individuals.
Overview of Ever-Present Characters
The table below summarizes the characters who have appeared in every main Tekken game:
| Character Name | Playable in All Games | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nina Williams | Yes | Consistent character throughout all 13 major titles. |
| Paul Phoenix | Yes | Consistent character throughout all 13 major titles. |
| King | Yes | Represented by King I (Tekken 1 & 2) and King II (Tekken 3 onwards). |
These characters not only represent the core gameplay mechanics but also tie together the overarching narrative of the Tekken universe, providing continuity and a sense of history across its numerous installments.
