Tekken 8 director Katsuhiro Harada's unwavering dedication to the franchise has sometimes clashed with Bandai Namco's internal structure. Known for his rebellious spirit and strong-willed approach, Harada's commitment to Tekken hasn't always aligned with company norms, occasionally causing friction with colleagues.
Harada's independent streak is legendary. He's famously defied Tekken fans and even his own parents, who initially disapproved of his gaming passion and career choice. His journey into the video game industry, against their wishes, highlights his determined nature. Even after achieving seniority at Bandai Namco, his rebellious spirit persisted. He defied unspoken company rules by actively shaping the future of the Tekken series, despite being assigned to a different department and role.
This independent spirit extended to his team. Harada describes the Tekken development team as "outlaws" within Bandai Namco, a group known for their strong will and unwavering devotion to the Tekken franchise. This dedication, he believes, has been crucial to the series' enduring success.
However, Harada's era as the rebellious Tekken leader might be drawing to a close. He's stated that Tekken 9 will be his final project before retirement. The future of the franchise hinges on whether his successor can maintain the legacy he’s forged.
