The classic mini-game returns at last, while Super Ghost Battle generates AI ghosts based on past fight data of real players.

Bandai Namco’s Tekken 8 is one of the major releases to look forward to in 2024, with a closed beta set for October. Before that, the development team revealed several new features (via PlayStation Blog Japan), including the return of Tekken Ball.

Last seen in Tekken 3 and the Wii U version of Tekken Tag Tournament 2, it sees two players hitting a beach ball back and forth, with heavier hits increasing its power. A powerful strike slows the action and switches to a dramatic camera angle for maximum impact. Another new feature is Super Ghost Battle, which offers AI ghosts that learn from humans.

If you’re in a Tekken Fight Lounge, the AI will examine the fight data for the players present. It can even analyze pro fighters and allow you to fight their ghosts. Before fighting a real player, you can challenge their AI ghost to get a feel for their tactics.

Check out some new hands-on gameplay below courtesy of BahaGameCrazy, which showcases Tekken Ball, Super Ghost Battle, avatar customization and 1v1 matches. Tekken 8 launches on January 26th, 2024, for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PS4, PC and Xbox One.