Tekken Director Katsuhiro Harada Sparks Speculation with LinkedIn Job Search
Katsuhiro Harada, the renowned director of the Tekken fighting game franchise, has reportedly updated his LinkedIn profile to indicate he's "Open to Work," igniting speculation about a potential departure from Bandai Namco after a three-decade tenure.
The news, initially highlighted by Japanese gaming news outlet Genki_JPN on X (formerly Twitter), showcased a screenshot of Harada's LinkedIn profile. The post, which detailed his search for roles such as Executive Producer, Game Director, Business Development, Vice President, or Marketing positions based in Tokyo, quickly spread among fans.
Concerns arose among the Tekken community regarding Harada's future and the franchise's direction. Numerous comments on the original post tagged Harada, seeking confirmation.
Harada swiftly addressed the swirling rumors via X, reassuring fans that he isn't leaving Bandai Namco. He clarified that his LinkedIn activity was intended to expand his professional network and explore new collaborations within the industry. He stated his desire to connect with more individuals, broaden his perspectives, and leverage LinkedIn's networking features.
This news offers a positive outlook for Tekken fans. Harada's expanded network could lead to exciting new collaborations and innovative ideas for future installments. The recent successful crossover with Final Fantasy XVI, featuring Clive Rosfield as a playable character alongside additional FFXVI themed content, exemplifies the potential benefits of such collaborations. The prospect of further collaborations and fresh creative input promises an exciting future for the Tekken franchise.