Tekken’s Director Katsuhiro Harada Isn't Looking For a New Job

Tekken Director Katsuhiro Harada's LinkedIn Activity Sparks Speculation

Katsuhiro Harada, the director of the renowned Tekken fighting game series, has reportedly updated his LinkedIn profile, indicating he's "open to work," igniting rumors of a potential departure from Bandai Namco after a three-decade tenure.

The news, initially highlighted by the Japanese gaming news outlet Genki_JPN on X (formerly Twitter), showcased a screenshot of Harada's LinkedIn profile. The post, recently published, explicitly states his interest in exploring new opportunities and positions. He's listed several desired roles, including Executive Producer, Game Director, Business Development roles, Vice President, or Marketing positions, all based in Tokyo.

This announcement understandably caused concern among fans, many of whom directly contacted Harada on social media for clarification.

Harada Addresses the Speculation

Quickly addressing the swirling speculation, Harada, known for his active engagement on X, confirmed that he's not leaving Bandai Namco. He clarified that his LinkedIn update was simply a means to broaden his professional network and engage with more individuals within the gaming industry. He emphasized a desire to expand his horizons and collaborate with a wider range of professionals.

Positive Implications for Tekken's Future

This development could potentially lead to exciting new collaborations and innovations for the Tekken franchise. The recent successful crossover with Final Fantasy XVI, featuring Clive Rosfield as a playable character and additional FFXVI-themed content, demonstrates the potential benefits of expanding industry connections. Harada's networking efforts could inject fresh ideas and perspectives into the future of the Tekken series.