Top 11 Stages Pt.1

Most of you reading this probably think that stages to a fighting game don't matter.  Newsflash for ya folks, they do.  The Tekken series has given us some of the most colorful and unique areas for us to beat each other senseless in, and they should be commended for it.  That's why for the next two weeks I'll be counting down the Top 11 Stages in Tekken.  Why Top 11?  Because you people need to check out the Nostalgia Critic.  

Keep in mind the choices are subjective, and nostalgia plays a large role in my decision.  That being said, I won't take graphics into consideration since the Tekken games always've had pretty good graphics for their time period.  Now that that's out of the way, let's get started!

11. Skyring from Tekken 3

The main reason Skyring made the list was the fact that this level is nuts.  I mean, it's a metal wrestling ring located high above some mountains!  Why is it there?  Who built it?  Who would wanna build it?  I don't know, but this stage has crossed the line from Crazy to Crazy Awesome, and frankly, I can't think of a better stage to go with everyone's favorite vaguely religious jaguar-masked Mexican wrestler.

10. Electric Fountain from Tekken 6

When I first got the game, I didn't  take much notice of the Electric Fountain, but after careful consideration, I realized that this stage is quite visually appealing.  The shopping area around the fighting portion gives the area an urban look, while the laser-geyser's (I don't think they could have those in real life) add a colorful modern appeal.  Also, the background music (Karma) has hints of old-school Tekken in it.  This is definitely a perfect spot for two modern people to have a  random brawl.

9. Laboratory Courtyard from Tekken 3

I'm not gonna lie to you, the I picked this because it reminds me of Metal Gear Solid.  What can I say, I just love MGS's aesthetic appeal.  Uhhh...Oh wait!  All three of this stage's background music is cool!  Ha, related this back to Tekken.  Save!

8. Autumn Temple from Tekken 5: DR

There had to be at least one Japanese Temple on this list, and I dare you to pick a more beautiful one.  From the classic setting, to the gorgeous fall colors, to the music containing some very cool Japanese pipes (Or so I believe), the designer's have created a stage that is both pleasing to senses and a perfect set-up to a ninja fight (Alas, if only Kunimitsu were still here...)

7. Tiger Dojo Tokyo from Tekken 3

To me, this is the stage that embodies most what Tekken is.  I think of Jin Kazama, Heihachi, or the third installment itself, this is what comes to mind.  You can just picture Jin training to defeat Heihachi for betraying him.  From the designs inside, to the misty mountains outside, this is just a cool level.  And it has the most triumphant example of Tekken music ever to grace the series.  All-in-all a very Tekkeny place.

6. English Countryside from Tekken 2

Jun Kazama represents all that is good and pure in the Tekken world, and her stage is a perfect match.  The rolling green hills, blue sky and gentle music give this the clean and natural vibe of Jun herself.  Almost make you wish you didn't have to fight...just lay down...and go to...sleep...

Whelp, all this gushing seems to have tuckered me out, so tune in next week as I reveal the Top 5 Tekken Levels!  Until then...


Kami "Blue Rupees and Chevy Chase" Kamiya


P.S. All images used were taken from the Tekkenpedia, which I highly recommend for all your Tekken needs