Katsuhiro Harada, the iconic director of the Tekken franchise, has announced his departure from Bandai Namco after 30 years. His decision comes as he reflects on the impact of personal losses and the legacy of Tekken, particularly as the series approaches its 30th anniversary. Harada, who has been integral to Tekken's evolution, emphasized his intent to reorganize and better align the game's direction with community feedback, particularly after recent tensions around DLC pricing in Tekken 8. He plans to conclude his tenure at the end of 2025, leaving behind a notable legacy that includes titles like the critically acclaimed Tekken 3.

What are the future plans for Tekken and who will succeed Harada?

While Harada has not revealed specific future plans for the Tekken series post-departure, there is speculation around potential new leadership and developments. As Tekken 8 continues to perform well, Bandai Namco may look to capitalize on this momentum, possibly hinting at a Tekken 9 in the future.

Harada joined Namco in the '90s, becoming the face of the Tekken series after directing Tekken 3, which sold over 8 million copies. His dedication to community engagement has made him a beloved figure in the gaming world. His exit adds uncertainty to the franchise's direction as it seeks to balance profitability with player satisfaction.