In an unexpected turn of events, players from Pakistan have emerged as dominant forces in the competitive Tekken scene. This rise has left many in the gaming industry, including Tekken’s director, Katsuhiro Harada, intrigued by their rapid ascent.
Tekken, a Japanese-developed fighting game, saw its eighth numbered instalment released earlier this year. Traditionally dominated by players from the Far East, the current top rankings now include multiple Pakistani players, raising questions about the factors behind this phenomenon.
The Rise of Pakistani Players
In just a few years, Pakistani players have significantly impacted the global Tekken landscape. From being virtually unknown to becoming top contenders, their journey is remarkable. Four of the current top ten players hail from Pakistan, a feat that has caught the attention of the gaming community.
One of the most notable figures is Arslan ‘Arslan Ash’ Siddique, whose victory at the 2019 EVO fighting game tournament propelled him to international fame. His success has inspired many other players in Pakistan to pursue competitive gaming.
Harada’s Perspective
Katsuhiro Harada, the director of Tekken, has openly expressed his surprise at the dominance of Pakistani players. During a recent tournament, he remarked that this emergence ‘came out of nowhere,’ highlighting the sudden impact these players have made.
Harada admitted, ‘We never knew they were playing Tekken. Even now, we’ve never been to Pakistan, so I’m still quite interested to hear why they became so obsessed with Tekken and so good at the game.’
The Influence of Arslan Ash
Arslan Ash’s influence on the Tekken community cannot be overstated. He became an overnight sensation following his victory in 2019, capturing the imagination of fans worldwide.
Currently ranked 10th globally, Arslan Ash continues to be a formidable player despite a recent early exit from the Red Bull Golden Letters Tournament in London.
Michael Murray, Tekken’s producer, recalled the excitement when Arslan Ash first made headlines. ‘No-one knew him,’ Murray said. ‘Then out of nowhere, someone no-one’s talking about comes along, and you find this other community.’
Pakistan’s Growing Presence
Besides Arslan Ash, other Pakistani players like Atif Butt have steadily climbed the ranks. Atif Butt currently holds the second spot globally, further cementing Pakistan’s reputation in the Tekken esports scene.
Their collective success has undeniably put Pakistan on the map, prompting discussions about the country’s gaming culture and its potential.
The Global Impact
The global Tekken community has taken notice of the rise of Pakistani players. This phenomenon is not limited to just one or two players but reflects a broader trend.
The international success of these players has sparked interest in Pakistan’s gaming scene, encouraging further exploration and support for budding talents.
Additionally, this shift has influenced how tournaments are perceived, with a new focus on previously unheralded regions, demonstrating the universal appeal and accessibility of esports.
Personal Reflections from Harada
Harada has been involved with Tekken for three decades. He shared personal anecdotes about his journey in the gaming industry, reflecting on how the competitive scene evolved with the release of Tekken 7.
He recounted how his mother’s initial scepticism turned into pride as she saw his achievements. ‘They’re like, ‘wow, you’re actually doing something with it, that’s good,’ he said.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Harada remains optimistic about Tekken’s future. He expressed his desire for more competition within the 3D fighting game genre to make the scene even more dynamic.
Harada stated, ‘It would be more interesting if there were other rivals, right?’ This sentiment underscores his commitment to seeing Tekken continue to thrive and evolve.
The unforeseen rise of Pakistani players in the Tekken esports scene is a testament to the global reach and inclusivity of competitive gaming. It highlights the potential for talent to emerge from unexpected places, reshaping the landscape of esports.
As Tekken continues to grow and evolve, the contributions of Pakistani players will undoubtedly remain a significant part of its history. The gaming world eagerly anticipates what the future holds for these talented individuals and the broader community.
