Tekken Director Harada's Favorite Fighting Stick: A Sentimental Choice
Katsuhiro Harada, the renowned producer and director of the Tekken series, recently revealed his preferred fighting stick, sparking curiosity among fans. This isn't some cutting-edge, high-tech controller; instead, Harada remains loyal to the Hori Fighting EDGE, a PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 fightstick discontinued over a decade ago.
The controller's appeal isn't its advanced features—it's the sentimental value attached to its serial number: "00765," which sounds like "Namco" in Japanese, the very company behind Tekken. Whether this was a deliberate choice, a gift, or pure coincidence, the number holds deep significance for Harada, representing his connection to the company's origins. He even incorporates these numbers into his car's license plate!
This preference for the older Hori Fighting EDGE is particularly noteworthy given the availability of newer, more advanced controllers like the Tekken 8 Pro FS Arcade Fight Stick, which Harada used in his EVO 2024 match against streamer LilyPichu. However, the long-standing companionship and sentimental connection to his Hori Fighting EDGE clearly outweigh any technological advancements for Harada. It's a testament to the enduring power of personal connection over cutting-edge technology.
