Tekken Development Chief Katsuhiro Harada Announces Bandai Namco Exit After 30 Years

IGN
Mon, 08 Dec 2025 09:11:32 +0000

Katsuhiro Harada, the development chief of Tekken, has announced his departure from Bandai Namco after 30 years, effective at the end of 2025. Reflecting on personal losses and professional challenges, he emphasized the importance of community feedback in game development. Harada has been a pivotal figure in the Tekken series, which celebrates its 30th anniversary, and he plans to share details about his future endeavors later.

2025-12-08 | Gematsu: Katsuhiro Harada to leave Bandai Namco after more than 31 years

Katsuhiro Harada, a key figure at Bandai Namco for over 31 years, will leave the company at the end of 2025. Known for his work on the Tekken series since 1994, Harada's decision stems from personal reflections following the loss of friends and colleagues. He plans to share more about his future later and will appear at the Tekken World Tournament Finals in January 2026. He will also release a DJ mix as a farewell.

2025-12-08 | GameSpot: Tekken Boss Katsuhiro Harada Is Leaving Bandai Namco After 30 Years Of Iron Fist Tournaments

Katsuhiro Harada, the development chief of Tekken, will leave Bandai Namco at the end of 2025 after 30 years with the franchise. His decision was influenced by personal losses and reflections on his time as a creator. Harada has prepared the Tekken team for his departure and expressed gratitude for his work on Tekken, Pokken Tournament, and SoulCalibur. Bandai Namco remains committed to Tekken 8's future development despite recent criticisms from fans regarding gameplay updates and microtransactions.

2025-12-08 | GamesIndustry.biz: Katsuhiro Harada leaving Bandai Namco at end of 2025

Katsuhiro Harada, a key figure in the Tekken franchise, announced he will leave Bandai Namco at the end of 2025 after three decades with the company. Reflecting on his career and personal losses, he felt the 30th anniversary of Tekken was an appropriate time to conclude this chapter. Harada has gradually transferred his responsibilities to the Tekken team and expressed gratitude to supporters and colleagues throughout his journey.