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.
A screenshot of Harada's LinkedIn profile, shared by Genki_JPN on X (formerly Twitter), shows him actively seeking new opportunities. He lists desired roles including Executive Producer, Game Director, Business Development, Vice President, and Marketing positions, all based in Tokyo. The profile also prominently displays the "#OpenToWork" tag. This news understandably caused concern among fans regarding Harada's future and the Tekken franchise.
Harada Addresses the Speculation
Quickly responding to the online buzz, Harada reassured fans via X that his LinkedIn activity wasn't a precursor to leaving Bandai Namco. He clarified that his intention is to expand his professional network and collaborate with more individuals within the gaming industry. He explained that enabling the "#OpenToWork" feature on LinkedIn simply allows him to connect with a wider range of professionals.
Positive Implications for Tekken's Future
Harada's proactive networking 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 skins and accessories featuring Jill, Joshua, and even Nektar the Moogle!), demonstrate the positive impact of cross-franchise partnerships. An expanded network could lead to even more exciting collaborations and fresh ideas for future Tekken installments.
