October 7, 2023
Esports isn’t as big in Pakistan, at least compared to other countries. But, it’s budding scene has birthed many exceptional pros in Dota, CSGO, and PUBG. Tekken, however, remains the game that Pakistan has absolutely owned. In the world of competitive gaming, Pakistan has emerged as a powerhouse, boasting exceptional talent and mastery in the beloved fighting game, Tekken. The prowess of Pakistani Tekken players in this digital battleground has become legendary, capturing the awe of fans and competitors alike.
But, is Pakistan really as good at Tekken as they say?
Stats prove that Pakistan is on the top
A quick glimpse into recent statistics paints a compelling portrait of Pakistan’s extraordinary achievements in the Tekken universe. The nation has consistently triumphed in various international tournaments, showcasing their mettle against some of the world’s best players. These victories underscore not only their strategic brilliance and technical prowess but also their unwavering dedication to the game.
Among the notable Pakistani Tekken players are:
Arsalan “Arslan Ash” Siddique, acclaimed as the greatest Tekken player of all time. Arslan Ash secured his last victory at Evo Las Vegas 2023, bringing his total Evo titles to an unprecedented four, a feat unmatched by any other player. In addition to his Evo triumphs, Arslan Ash has clinched titles like CEO 2021 Champion and Combo Breaker 2022, where he remained undefeated. His career, initiated in 2018, has seen him amass over $300,000 in tournament winnings, making him the second most rewarded player in Tekken history.
Atif “Atif Butt” Ijaz, the 2022 Tekken World Tour Champion, is a formidable force in the Tekken arena. Known for his versatility in playing multiple characters at a top-level, Atif Butt’s recent victories at IESF World Esports Championships 2023 and Gamers8 Nations Cup have propelled his total winnings to over $200,000, solidifying his position as the third highest rewarded player in the Tekken scene.
Imran “Khan”, the Evo 2022 runner-up, has been making waves in the FGC. His exceptional Tekken prowess was exemplified during the Gamers8 Nations Cup, where he remained undefeated, aiding Team Pakistan in securing a swift $500,000 victory. Since the initiation of his career in late 2019, Khan has accumulated close to $200,000 in total prize money, placing him among the top 5 highest rewarded players in the game.
These remarkable players collectively earned close to $600,000 in 2023 alone.
Success despite visa issues
Factors behind success are always taken into consideration, but friction matters as much. When it comes to esports, not everyone enjoys the same perks. So, top Tekken players across the globe reached the pinnacle with ample support from official channels, but such is not the case for Pakistani pros in Tekken. Visa issues and other legal process frictions are no secret, but Arslan Ash’s recent tweet confirmed that challenges are real. The fact that Pakistani pros have managed to achieve some massive milestones despite the issues, makes their success more special and valuable.
Pakistan’s Tekken scene is graced by exceptional players who have not only showcased their prowess within the game but have also triumphed over challenges beyond it. Atif Butt, Arslan Ash, and Khan are names synonymous with Tekken excellence. These players have bravely navigated through visa issues and financial constraints, displaying remarkable determination and passion for the game by pushing through these obstacles. Their ability to shine despite such challenges is a testament to their resilience and unwavering passion for the game.
Training and dedication
Becoming a Tekken master requires a lot of practice and dedication. Pakistani players understand this very well. They spend countless hours perfecting their moves, understanding the details of each move, and practicing relentlessly to improve. Their rigorous training regimens involve mastering each move’s nuances, understanding frame data, and dissecting opponent strategies.
The dedication doesn’t stop at personal training. The culture of collaborative training, where players come together to practice and learn from each other, is a prominent aspect of the Pakistani Tekken scene. This has created a community that supports and nurtures talent, allowing individuals to evolve and improve their skills collectively. Renowned players like Knee have recognized and embraced this culture, often traveling to Pakistan to train and compete with the very best.
Passion and love for the game
Beyond the competition and the desire for victory, Pakistanis have an unparalleled passion and love for Tekken. For them, it’s not merely a game; it’s a culture, a way of life. This deep-rooted affection for Tekken is what propels them forward in their quest for gaming excellence.
This passion is instilled at a young age, often passed down from one generation to the next. Families and communities encourage this love for gaming, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive and pursue their dreams within the gaming world.
The global impact
Pakistani Tekken players have not only dominated the local scene but have also left an indelible mark on the international stage. Their success in major tournaments across the globe has garnered respect and recognition from the global gaming community. They’ve shown the world what dedication, strategy, and an unrelenting passion for the game can achieve.
Their victories have sparked curiosity and admiration, prompting players from different parts of the world to study their techniques and playstyles. The impact of Pakistani Tekken players on the global gaming landscape is undeniable and continues to inspire a new generation of gamers.
The gaming community in Pakistan is tight-knit and passionate. Their unity and mutual support have played a pivotal role in the country’s rise to Tekken stardom. Gamers, regardless of their skill level, come together to celebrate the game they love. The spirit of collaboration and the eagerness to learn from one another have significantly contributed to their collective growth and expertise.
The sense of belonging to a community that shares the same passion for Tekken is a driving force that keeps the players motivated and hungry for success.