Online fighting coming to Tekken 5:DR

Sony's experiment in digital distribution last March was a bittersweet package for Tekken fans. Though GameSpot's reviewer called the download-only Tekken 5: Dark Resurrection "practically arcade-perfect," it lacked online play, which disappointed many fans of competition-oriented fighting series.

However, all may soon be forgiven, as Sony today has announced a major update is in store for Namco Bandai's brawler. Headlining the update will be the addition of a feature-heavy online mode. Fighters can participate in ranked and nonranked matches, with matchmaking options including an opti match, quick match, custom match, and friend match.

Further fueling the competition, players can view their opponents' stats and voice-chat with one another while observing others' fisticuffs. The online mode will also include a news ticker, which will be regularly updated with the weekly, monthly, and overall rank leaders.

Also included in the update will be two new single-player modes. Practice mode affords you a virtual dojo, where you can practice your moves. Survival mode tasks you with defeating as many opponents as possible with a limited health bar.

A release date has not yet been revealed. However, when it is released, the update will come included in full-version downloads, with an update pack for those who already have the game also available through Sony's online PlayStation Store. Tekken 5: Dark Resurrection is rated T for Teen. For more on the game, check out GameSpot's previous coverage.