TL;DR
Katsuhiro Harada, the renowned Tekken director, has left Bandai Namco and established VS Studio, a new development team under SNK. This marks a significant change for his career and the fighting game industry. The studio is still in early stages, with few details on upcoming projects.
Veteran fighting game director Katsuhiro Harada has established a new Tokyo-based studio called VS Studio, which is a subsidiary of SNK Corporation, after leaving Bandai Namco in December 2023. This marks a major career shift for Harada, who has been the face of Tekken for over 30 years, and signals a potential new direction in fighting game development under SNK’s umbrella.
Harada revealed the new studio via a short video, explaining his move to SNK and his focus on collaborative game development with trusted colleagues. He emphasized that VS Studio is still in its early phases, with a call for developers to join. According to a press release, Harada described the studio’s philosophy as “beyond tradition, crafted to perfection,” with the acronym “VS” standing for Visionary Standard, Volition Shift, and Vanguard Spirit. Harada stated, “We will combine technology, sensibility and world-class expertise to pursue the ultimate,” aiming to generate innovative ideas in a free and open environment.
SNK, known for franchises like Fatal Fury, Samurai Shodown, and The King of Fighters, now partners with Harada, whose departure from Bandai Namco surprised many in the fighting game community. Yasuyuki Oda, a longtime SNK developer, expressed optimism about the collaboration, noting that discussions about working together had long been ongoing. Oda added, “Nothing has been decided yet, but I have no doubt that things will become even more exciting than ever before.”
Why It Matters
This development is significant because it signals a potential new era for Harada, one of the most influential figures in fighting games, and could lead to innovative titles that challenge existing franchises. The partnership with SNK also introduces a new dynamic in the fighting game industry, which has been traditionally dominated by companies like Capcom, Bandai Namco, and SNK itself. Fans and industry insiders will be watching closely to see what projects emerge from VS Studio and how they might reshape competitive gaming and fighting game design.
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Background
Harada’s departure from Bandai Namco in December 2023 ended a three-decade tenure during which he directed and shaped the Tekken franchise, one of the most successful fighting game series globally. His move to SNK, a rival company with a storied history in the genre, is unprecedented and raises questions about the future direction of his creative work. SNK, owned by Saudi Arabia’s Electronic Gaming Development Company (EGDC), has recently expanded its influence through investments in other major game companies, amid ongoing industry debates about the role of Saudi investments in gaming and human rights concerns.
“We will combine technology, sensibility and world-class expertise to pursue the ultimate.”
— Katsuhiro Harada
“Nothing has been decided yet, but I have no doubt that things will become even more exciting than ever before.”
— Yasuyuki Oda
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What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear what specific games or projects VS Studio will develop under SNK, as the studio is still in its infancy. Details about the studio’s staffing, funding, and strategic direction are also not yet confirmed. Additionally, the broader industry impact and how this partnership will influence competitive fighting games are still uncertain.
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What’s Next
Harada and VS Studio are expected to announce their first projects in the coming months. Industry watchers will look for any official statements or game reveals at upcoming gaming events or industry conferences. The next milestones include studio staffing updates, project teasers, and potential collaborations with other developers or publishers.
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Key Questions
What kind of games will VS Studio develop?
It is not yet clear what specific titles VS Studio will produce, but given Harada’s background, fighting games are the most likely focus.
Why did Harada leave Bandai Namco?
Harada announced his departure in December 2023 after a 30-year tenure, citing a desire to pursue new creative opportunities and collaborations.
How might this affect the fighting game industry?
This move could introduce new competition and innovation, potentially leading to fresh titles that challenge existing franchises and inspire other developers.
Is SNK financially stable enough to support this new studio?
SNK is owned by the Electronic Gaming Development Company, backed by Saudi investment, which provides financial stability, though industry concerns about Saudi investments persist.
Will this impact Tekken or other Bandai Namco franchises?
No, Harada’s departure from Bandai Namco means he will no longer be involved with Tekken or other Bandai Namco titles. His new focus is on projects under SNK.
