Tekken Director Katsuhiro Harada's LinkedIn Activity Sparks Speculation
Katsuhiro Harada, the director of the renowned Tekken fighting game series, recently updated his LinkedIn profile, indicating he's "open to work," igniting speculation about a potential departure from Bandai Namco, his employer of three decades.
The news, initially reported by Genki_JPN on X (formerly Twitter), showcased a screenshot of Harada's LinkedIn profile featuring the #OpenToWork tag. His post explicitly stated his interest in exploring new opportunities in roles such as Executive Producer, Game Director, Business Development, Vice President, or Marketing, all based in Tokyo. This announcement understandably caused concern among Tekken fans.
Harada Addresses the Speculation
Quickly responding to the ensuing fan inquiries on X, Harada clarified that his LinkedIn activity was not a prelude to leaving Bandai Namco. He explained his intention was to expand his professional network and collaborate with more individuals within the industry. He emphasized that the #OpenToWork feature on LinkedIn simply facilitates broader connections.
Positive Implications for Tekken's Future
This proactive networking strategy by Harada could potentially benefit the Tekken franchise. Recent collaborations, such as the inclusion of Final Fantasy XVI's Clive Rosfield as a playable character in Tekken 8, along with additional FFXVI-themed cosmetic content, demonstrate the franchise's openness to crossovers. Harada's expanded network might lead to even more exciting collaborations and innovative ideas for future Tekken installments.
