Atypical E2F transcription factor that participates in various processes such as angiogenesis and polyploidization of specialized cells. Mainly acts as a transcription repressor that binds DNA independently of DP proteins and specifically recognizes the E2 recognition site 5'-TTTC[CG]CGC-3'. Directly represses transcription of classical E2F transcription factors such as E2F1: component of a feedback loop in S phase by repressing the expression of E2F1, thereby preventing p53/TP53-dependent apoptosis. Plays a key role in polyploidization of cells in placenta and liver by regulating the endocycle, probably by repressing genes promoting cytokinesis and antagonizing action of classical E2F proteins (E2F1, E2F2 and/or E2F3). Required for placental development by promoting polyploidization of trophoblast giant cells. Acts as a promoter of sprouting angiogenesis, possibly by acting as a transcription activator: associates with HIF1A, recognizes and binds the VEGFA promoter, which is different from canonical E2 recognition site, and activates expression of the VEGFA gene. {ECO:0000269|PubMed:15897886, ECO:0000269|PubMed:16179649, ECO:0000269|PubMed:18202719, ECO:0000269|PubMed:22903062}. This is the function of Ensembl gene identifier ENSG00000129173 (E2F8, E2F transcription factor 8).