The Tekken series seamlessly blends grounded realism with fantastical elements, epitomized by the Devil Gene. While the specifics of how the Devils within each person function remain shrouded in mystery, they are often treated as separate personalities – potential entities or alter egos within the mind.
What Is The Devil?
Many Mysteries Here, Still
Definitively, these transformations are genetic, bolstered by the user’s personality and desires, primarily serving to protect the host. Triggered during near-death situations, users can learn to control or achieve harmony between their human and Devil forms, although many mysteries persist.
Where Does It Come From?
Azazel, The First Devil
In Tekken 6, the enigmatic figure Azazel is introduced as the origin of the Devil Gene. An ancient demon, Azazel spread demonic powers among his followers, establishing multiple Devil bloodlines in ancient times. Tekken 8 suggests Azazel as the source of demons across various cultures, against whom the Mishima Clan fought. Though defeated and sealed away, Azazel’s influence endured, impacting families like the Hachijo Clan.
The Hachijo Clan
Kazumi And Using The Devil For ‘Good’
Thousands of years later, Kazumi Hachijo enters the scene, later becoming Kazumi Mishima and introducing the Devil Gene to the Mishima family. Part of the Hachijo family, Kazumi wielded demonic powers to eliminate perceived threats to the world. Despite her mission being allegedly noble, her Devil form prioritized the mission over her human self, leading to tragic consequences.
Devil Kazuya
When A Bad Person Has The Devil Gene
Kazuya Mishima, influenced by a traumatic childhood and fueled by revenge, exemplifies how one’s personality shapes the Devil within. Unlike Jin, who strives for good, Kazuya’s Devil form desires power and vengeance, driving him to seize control of the Mishima Zaibatsu and seek world domination. In Tekken 4, Kazuya achieves a unique unity between his human and Devil forms, becoming a singular force of evil.
Jin And The Kazamas
Purifying The Devil
Jin Kazama, born from the union of Kazuya and Jun Kazama, inherits the Devil Gene. Unlike his predecessors, Jin initially rejects the Devil Gene as a curse. His internal struggle and ultimate acceptance lead to the emergence of Devil Jin, a separate yet interconnected persona focused on protecting Jin in dire situations. Even when making morally questionable choices, Jin’s decisions are conscious, seeking to eliminate the source of the Devil Gene.
Honorable Mention: Jinpachi Mishima
His Appearance Is Deceptive
Jinpachi Mishima, despite his demonic appearance, is unrelated to the Devil Gene. Originating from Heihachi’s side, Jinpachi’s possession by a vengeful spirit in Tekken 5 is unrelated to the Devil Gene. Heihachi’s experiments with illegitimate children, including Lars and Reina, add further layers of complexity and mysteries yet to be unraveled.
The Tekken series continues to weave a complex narrative around the Devil Gene, blending martial arts precision with supernatural elements in a captivating and mysterious saga.
