Following the recent Tekken 8 beta test, Bandai Namco has sent out a strong warning to fans who are still trying to access beta content.

Tekken 8 developer Bandai Namco has issued a strong warning to fans who may be trying to access the now-closed network test through less-than-trusted sources. Nearly a year after the game debuted at Sony’s State of Play event last September, excitement remains high thanks to new trailers, and character reveals. Bandai Namco has continued to unveil more and more characters. Many of them have been redesigned or have been significantly improved thanks to the studio’s use of Unreal Engine 5.

This past weekend, however, many fans got their first real taste of Tekken 8, thanks to a second closed network test that began on July 24 and ended on July 31.

During the limited test, fans were given access to all the characters revealed so far. With no new characters included, players were at least able to play with Tekken 8’s new mechanics and features like the Heat System. Although the test has since closed, some players have found a way to get back into the network test. This is something Bandai Namco doesn’t like.

A dual announcement from TEKKEN Project and Bandai Namco Esports has issued an essential reminder to fans after it was revealed that the network test had been hacked. According to the notice, some players have managed to regain access to the closed network test of Tekken 8. They were able to play the game beyond the specified completion time. According to Bandai Namco, this action violates the terms of service and the Tekken World Tour Code of Conduct. Unauthorised distribution or downloading of the game is illegal.

Bandai Namco’s message went on to say that any player found to have entered the network test without prior permission may be disqualified from the upcoming Tekken World Tour. Also, from other official events.

The message concluded by asking for the cooperation of fans to maintain the integrity and fairness of the tournament. Those who have access to the hacked network test can use the training mode. This gives them an unethical advantage.

Unfortunately for Bandai Namco, hacking the network test was only part of the problem. During the first Network Test weekend, the Cheat Engine was not only used to access the PS5 build but six additional unannounced characters were leaked. Long before the developer was ready to reveal them. It is unknown if the leaked roster is the full launch version. Or just part of what will eventually be the complete set. What wasn’t included were the possible guest characters, which has become a franchise staple.

Source: Twitter

An important reminder from the TEKKEN Project and Bandai Namco Esports Team. pic.twitter.com/0Fcke36yU5

— Bandai Namco Esports (@BNEesports) July 31, 2023