Katsuhiro Harada to Rethink Role After DLC Stage Backlash

Katsuhiro Harada, the chief of Tekken 8, has vowed to reassess his role after a backlash regarding the sale of the Genmaji Temple stage as DLC for $4.99. This decision, accompanying the release of the character Heihachi Mishima, led fans to accuse Bandai Namco of corporate greed, especially since prior DLC was offered for free. The community's reaction stemmed from a perceived inconsistency in expectations after the introduction of a free stage with another character's release. In response to the uproar, Harada admitted missteps in communication between the development and publishing sides of the game and promised to create a structure that better reflects community opinions moving forward. The recent controversy has also impacted the game's Steam reviews, which have turned 'mixed' as dissatisfaction grows among players.

Harada plans to rethink his role and organizational structure within Bandai Namco to better align with the community's expectations, ensuring that player feedback is more effectively integrated into future decisions.

Tekken 8 is part of a long-standing franchise known for its deep gameplay mechanics and diverse character roster. Launched in 2023, it has attracted both new players and veterans of the series, aiming to expand on the legacy of previous titles while introducing fresh content. The ongoing discussions around DLC pricing and community engagement highlight the challenges modern franchises face in balancing profitability with fan expectations.