Former Tekken Director Katsuhiro Harada Launches New Studio, VS Studio

Katsuhiro Harada, the former director of the Tekken series, has founded his own game development company called VS Studio. After 31 years at Bandai Namco, Harada has partnered with SNK Corporation—the developer and publisher behind the Neo Geo system and iconic fighting games like The King of Fighters, Fatal Fury, and Samurai Showdown—to create a studio that promises to be 'beyond tradition, crafted to perfection.'

The 'VS' in the studio's name carries multiple meanings, reflecting its roots in video game software design, as well as 'versus' in the sense of tackling challenges. Harada notes that it also symbolizes innovation and competition through concepts like Visionary Standard, Volition Shift, and Vanguard Spirit.

'We will combine technology, sensibility, and world-class expertise to pursue the ultimate,' said Harada, who will serve as both representative director and CEO. 'From a free, open, and spacious environment, we will generate new ideas and create memorable games. We established this studio to bring this vision to life.'

The studio is headquartered in Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo. While the specific game Harada is developing remains unknown, given his extensive history with fighting games, it's easy to speculate.

'Having been involved in game development for many years, I've constantly considered how I want to spend my time as a developer and what kind of environment allows developers to perform at their best. VS Studio is one answer to that question,' Harada added.

'By bringing together technology and knowledge, and working with passionate colleagues, we aim to deliver the best gaming experiences to users worldwide. VS Studio aspires to be a studio that continues to take on such challenges, and we are looking for new team members who share our vision. Please look forward to the future of VS Studio.'

Harada announced his departure from Bandai Namco in December, having previously spoken publicly about his difficult relationship with both the Tekken franchise and the IP holder, Bandai Namco. Tekken 8 had caused friction between players and the development team, with Harada stepping in multiple times on social media to address fan concerns, including a controversy over premium stage DLC. Prior to that, he was candid about why Soul Calibur disappeared and discussed attempts to include KFC mascot Colonel Sanders in Tekken, which ultimately failed.