Harada's new SNK-backed VS Studio gets full autonomy
Katsuhiro Harada says his new SNK-backed studio, VS Studio, will hold complete decision-making authority, with a team recruited largely from developers over 45.
Katsuhiro Harada has founded a new studio, VS Studio, with backing from SNK, and says the team will operate with complete autonomy and decision-making authority, according to gamesindustry.biz.
Harada said the team was recruited organically, drawing largely on developers over the age of 45. He also said the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, described as a passionate gaming fan, was involved in the approach that led to the SNK deal.
The move follows Harada's departure from Bandai Namco, which he announced in December 2025 after more than three decades at the company, where he directed the Tekken series.
In August 2026, it was announced that Tekken 8 director Kohei Ikeda had joined VS Studio as a game designer.
Harada has also said that by the time he turned 50, he realised he might only have time to make one more game.
Quick answers
Who is backing VS Studio?
SNK is backing VS Studio, the new studio founded by Tekken director Katsuhiro Harada.
Who owns decision-making at VS Studio?
Harada says VS Studio will have complete autonomy and decision-making authority.
When did Katsuhiro Harada leave Bandai Namco?
Harada announced his departure from Bandai Namco in December 2025, after more than three decades at the company.