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 refusal to compromise, Harada's approach, while beloved by fans, hasn't always been met with complete understanding within the company.
Harada's independent streak is long-standing. He defied his parents' wishes to pursue a career in gaming, initially met with tears, and has consistently challenged expectations. Even after rising through the ranks at Bandai Namco, his commitment to Tekken remained paramount. He defied an unspoken rule by actively shaping the future of the series, despite a formal reassignment to the publishing division and a separate department from the development team.
This rebellious attitude extended to his team, the Tekken Project, who Harada jokingly refers to as "outlaws" within Bandai Namco. Their strong-willed nature and unwavering commitment to the Tekken series, however, have arguably been crucial to the franchise's enduring success.
Harada's reign as the rebellious leader of the Tekken Project may be nearing its end, with Tekken 9 potentially his final contribution to the gaming world. His legacy, forged in defiance and dedication, will be a tough act to follow.
