Sergei Dragunov, also known as the White Reaper, is one of the most popular characters in the Tekken franchise. This special agent from snowy Russia stands out not only for his distinctive appearance but also for his powerful sambo techniques. In the hands of a professional, Dragunov leaves no chance for his opponents, as he possesses a plethora of controlling moves and solid defense. Beginners also benefit from these qualities, making this hero a good choice for those looking to get into the game. 

In this Tekken 8 Dragunov guide, we will show you how to make the most of this character, showcasing his coolest moves and techniques.

Table of Content
  1. Playing as Dragunov
  2. Best Moves of Dragunov in Tekken 8
    1. Key moves
    2. Heat moves
    3. Pressure moves
    4. Throws
    5. Special Moves
  3. The Best Dragunov Combos in Tekken 8
    1. Wall Combo
  4. Dragunov Tactics Guide
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Playing as Dragunov

Best moves and combos of Dragunov in Tekken 8Image: bandainamcoent.eu

Without exaggeration, Dragunov is a very strong fighter. Each character in Tekken 8 has their unique traits. For White Reaper, it's his throws and immense pressure on the opponent. By using the right combinations, you will keep your opponent under constant pressure, preventing them from seizing the initiative. The opponent will be forced to keep their distance, as getting close to Dragunov is very dangerous. 

Should your opponent lose their vigilance, you can activate one of the throws to inflict massive damage. You can also effectively counter attacks, making this character strong in defense. Thus, only experienced players can break through Dragunov's defense, giving you an advantage.

Best Moves of Dragunov in Tekken 8

Best moves and combos of Dragunov in Tekken 8Image: fightersgeneration.com

To avoid overloading the guide with unnecessary information, we will skip the most basic movements of the character. Learning how to step left or right does not require becoming an expert in the game or studying dozens of guides. Let's start with a universal control layout, which will allow you to learn combos regardless of the platform you are playing on:

  • F, D, U, B — Forward, Down, Up, Back
  • DF / DB — Diagonal forward and down/Diagonal backward and down
  • 1 — Left Punch (■ / X)
  • 2 — Right Punch (▲ / Y)
  • 3 — Left Kick (X / A)
  • 4 — Right Kick (● / B)
  • 1+2/D+4 — Instant press
  • QCF / QCB — quarter circle forward/backward
  • SS / SSR / SSL — sidestep / sidestep right / sidestep left
  • FC / WS — while crouching / while standing
  • WR — while running

Key moves

Let's begin with the basic moves that are used in any fight. Mastering these will already put you in a good position.

  • WS4 — one of the most important moves for Dragunov. It allows you to track your opponent's behavior, which is crucial.
  • D/B2 — also enables you to monitor your opponent's behavior and inflict damage in the following combo: D/B2, 1, 2.
  • 2,1 — a quick series of strikes. It's a starter for snakedash.
  • D/F1 — an excellent move that can be followed by a combo. Without a combo, it serves as a poke.
  • D/F4 — a move with good range and damage, but risky if the opponent blocks and counterattacks.
  • B4 — don't hesitate to use this move. It's effective for offense and blocking.
  • B2 — also great for offense and blocking, allowing you to fully crouch.
  • WS1 — initiates various combinations. Can be used as WS1, 2 or WS1, 3. Also utilized in snakedash.

Heat moves

Heat moves are a key part of the combat system in Tekken 8. Using Heat, Dragunov can deal colossal damage to his opponent.

  • 1, 2, 1 (Salvo) guarantees control during a Heat throw.
  • B4, 3 (Tundra Slash) is a launcher in a Heat state during a throw.
  • 4, 3, 1+2 is also a launcher.
  • F3, 1+2 (Crushing Blizzard).
  • WR2, 1 + 2 (Russian Hook Special) is a powerful strike during Heat.
  • FC D/F1, 1+2 (Hail Slicer) is an unbreakable grab during Heat.
  • 2+3 (Heat Burst) is a quick, powerful attack.
  • D/B3, 1+2 (Feint & Low Catch) is a strike with a grab.
  • 2+3, D/B1+2 (Ultra Russian Sickle) is a devastating strike during Heat.

Pressure moves

These moves will keep your opponent under constant pressure. They have specific effects, so let's just list the moves:

  • D1
  • D2
  • B1+2
  • QCF4
  • D/B3+4
  • FC D/F1, 4
  • WR2

Throws

Throws are one of Dragunov's strongest advantages. Using them will lead you to victory.

  • 1+3 (Volk Clutch)
  • 2 + 4 (Purge Slam)
  • 1 + 3 / 2 + 4 (Tarantula Sting) — Approach left
  • 1 + 3 / 2 + 4 (Reverse Fracture) — Approach right
  • 1 + 3 / 2 + 4 (Absolute Silence) — Approach behind
  • F1+4 (Reverse Victor Clutch)
  • F2+3 (Victor Clutch)
  • U/F1+2 (Blizzard Rush)
  • D1+3 / D2+4 (Cold Fate) — Approach crouching
  • U / F3 + 4 (Scorpion Scissors)

Special Moves

  • D / F1 + 2 (White Angel of Death) — During Rage
  • 1+2+3+4 (Ki Charge) — Special Move

The Best Dragunov Combos in Tekken 8

Best moves and combos of Dragunov in Tekken 8Image: bandainamcoent.eu

It's time to discuss Dragunov's best combinations. Of course, he can inflict massive damage with his regular throws, but for a confident victory, it's essential to utilize his deadly combos.

  • WR2 (Counter Hit), D2, WS4, B1, 2, 3, 2, 4
  • WS2, F4, 4, 3, B1, 2, 3, 1D/F, Sneak 1+2
  • D/F2, 4, 4, FC, D/F1, 4, Sneak 2, Dash 3, 1, D/F, Sneak 1+2
  • QCF2, 4, 4, FC, D/F1, 4, Sneak 2, Dash 3, 1, D/F, Sneak 2
  • 1, 3, 2, 4, 4, FC, D/F1, 4, Sneak 2, Dash 3, 1, D/F, Sneak 2
  • D/B2, 1, 2, 4, 4, FC, D/F1, 4, Sneak 2, Dash 3, 1, D/F, Sneak 2
  • D/F2, 4, 4, FC, D/F1, 4, Sneak 2, Dash 3, 1, D/F, Sneak 3+4
  • D/F1, 4, QCF3+4, 4, 4, FC, D/F1, 4, Sneak 2, Dash 3, 1, D/F, Sneak 2
  • Heat Dash Combo: D/F2, F4, 4, 3, (during Heat) B4, 3F, 3, 1D/F, Sneak 2, F, F3

Wall Combo

  • U / F1, WR4, D3, 1+2, 1+2
  • U / F1, QCF2, WR4
  • U / F1, QCF2, D3, 1+2, 1+2

Dragunov Tactics Guide

In Tekken 8, Dragunov always aims to keep his opponent under control. Your main tool is the F, F2 moves, which allow you to corner your opponent and keep them there. You can also activate this hit on a counter-attack, so use the move as often as possible. Only experienced players will be able to react in time and evade such a cunning attack.

Another advantage is the B1+2 move. It's an excellent trap for opponents unfamiliar with the tactics of fighting against Dragunov. If you see your opponent pressing all the buttons in a row to attack you, confidently execute the B1+2 combination, and your enemy will be trapped!

Most importantly, the throws. The White Reaper has very deceptive throws that are difficult to break. You can constantly pressure your opponent with 1+2 or 2+4 to drive them to despair. An inexperienced player will likely lose to you immediately, as they won't be able to consistently block quick throws.

We hope this Tekken 8 Dragunov guide has been useful to you. This character is indeed a very strong opponent. We can recommend him to beginners as well, because even without complex combos, he can win by relying on his throws.

Main image: deviantart.com/naviup32