Longtime Tekken architect Katsuhiro Harada has left Bandai Namco after three decades to helm his own venture, VS Studio, a Tokyo‑based subsidiary of rival SNK. Harada’s departure in December shocked the fighting‑game community, and the new studio’s launch was announced via a brief video in which he described a “free, open and spacious environment” for development.

In the press release Harada outlined VS Studio’s philosophy as “beyond tradition, crafted to perfection,” with the initials standing for Visionary Standard, Volition Shift and Vanguard Spirit. He invited seasoned developers to apply, emphasizing collaboration with trusted colleagues. SNK veteran Yasuyuki Oda praised the partnership, noting that while concrete projects remain undefined, the collaboration promises fresh competition in the crowded fighting‑game market.

SNK, known for Fatal Fury, Samurai Shodown and The King of Fighters, gained additional financial backing when Saudi Arabia’s crown prince acquired the Electronic Gaming Development Company in 2022. That same investment arm recently took a stake in Capcom, raising eyebrows about Saudi influence in the industry. Harada’s move places a seasoned creator under SNK’s umbrella, setting the stage for potentially groundbreaking fighting titles.