The rumors are true, somewhat. The Cardboard Tube Samurai will be appearing in Tekken 6, at least in spirit, as a downloadable GameStop pre-order bonus costume for Yoshimitsu, who can be seen dual-wielding the powerful weapons in the official screenshots here. Along with a Pac-Man kimono, cardboard tubes, and a hat, the pre-order bonus DLC also features Samurai Battle Banners, which can be used to make any Tekken 6 character look a little more attractive. On top of that, GameStop customers who pre-order the game also receive a Tekken 6 calendar, which you can then use to retroactively circle the October 27th North American release date.

Now how much would you pay? But wait, there's more!

Both versions of Tekken 6 will also be available bundled with a limited-edition Hori fight stick and an art book, for only $149.99. That's cheaper than buying three copies of the game alone!

Check out the gallery for shots of the new bundles and the new Yoshimitsu outfit, and let us know if you're one of the few and the proud who plan on scoring one of those sexy stick bundles.

I suppose the backlit dual-wield weaponry could be argued to be anything - but the Pac Man logo on the gi means it's definitely Cardboard Tube Samurai. Note also the white socks and mandals.

Paustini, a cohost over at Gamertag radio, noticed it too and posits that we should expect to hear more at this year's PAX.

It seems some of website founders Gabe and Tycho's comic genius has made it into Namco's yearly Iron Fist Tournament. Namely, the upcoming Tekken 6, which is heading to Xbox 360 and PS3 this Fall.

If I were you, I'd expect a neat little announcement at this year's Penny Arcade Expo.

Penny Arcade Meets Tekken, Cardboard Tube Samurai a Character in Tekken 6 [Gamertag Radio, thanks mr_raccoon]