Tekken 7 focuses on 1-on-1 battles. Two new mechanisms are introduced in the game.
The first, Rage Art, allows the player to execute several unblockable moves that deal roughly 30% damage depending on the character (the location test had several characters dealing up to 80% damage, but were changed in the release version after feedback) once their health bar is critical, in exchange for inactivating the normal attack power increase.
The second, Power Crush, lets the player continue their attacks even while being hit by the enemy, although they would still receive the damage dealt by the enemy's attacks. The mechanic also works only for absorbing high or mid attacks. The bound system, which staggers a character to increase opportunity for additional hits, is replaced by Screw Attack, which makes the enemy spin sideways when they are hit airborne, allowing the player to inflict additional hits after they reach the ground.
Unlike bound, however, Screw Attack cannot be used to do wall combos. Thanks to a new display system, the game's multiplayer allows players to choose which side of the screen to play on. Movement has undergone some changes and now is similar to the movement mechanics found in Tekken Revolution, most notably when characters walk backwards.
The arcade version features the traditional stage-based play through, in which the player progresses by beating five different opponents one by one, ending with a fixed penultimate and final stage. Matches may be interrupted if another player joins the game. Online mode is available for both local and international play. Character customisation is featured, allowing the player to modify characters' appearances. For the first time in the arcade series, the game features a practice mode, which allows players to train moves against an opponent for a limited amount of time, as well as an option to collect in-game rewards, mainly customisation items, through "Treasure Box" by winning enough matches.
