Tekken Director Katsuhiro Harada Sparks Job Search Speculation on LinkedIn
Rumors are swirling that Tekken director Katsuhiro Harada is seeking new employment opportunities, as evidenced by a recent LinkedIn update. This has led to speculation about a potential departure from Bandai Namco, his employer of 30 years and the birthplace of the iconic Tekken franchise.
The news, initially highlighted by Japanese gaming news outlet Genki_JPN on X (formerly Twitter), showcased a screenshot of Harada's LinkedIn profile. A recent post indicated his openness to new roles, specifically mentioning Executive Producer, Game Director, Business Development, Vice President, or Marketing positions, all based in Tokyo. His profile picture also displayed the "#OpenToWork" indicator.
This announcement understandably caused concern among fans, prompting numerous replies seeking confirmation from Harada himself.
Harada Addresses the Speculation
Ever active on X (Twitter), Harada swiftly addressed the speculation. He clarified that he is not leaving Bandai Namco, but rather aims to expand his professional network and explore new collaborations within the industry. In response to a fan, he stated that his LinkedIn activity is simply a means of connecting with more people and broadening his horizons.
Positive Implications for Tekken's Future
This move could have positive implications for the Tekken franchise. The recent successful collaboration with Final Fantasy 16, adding Clive Rosfield as a playable character and incorporating other FF16 characters via skins and accessories, demonstrates the potential benefits of expanded industry connections. Harada's networking efforts may lead to even more exciting collaborations and innovative ideas for future Tekken installments.
