Katsuhiro Harada has announced the formation of a new development studio with SNK following his departure from Bandai Namco.
The new studio, SNK VS Studio, is based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, with Harada serving as CEO. The “VS” in the studio’s name carries multiple meanings, including “Video game Soft (VS Development Division)” and the spirit of Versus challenging tradition.
The studio’s philosophy is “Beyond tradition, crafted to perfection,” adding that the team aims to combine technology, creativity, and development experience to create new games in a more open development environment.
While no projects have been announced yet, the move brings together one of the most recognizable names behind the Tekken franchise with the company known for The King of Fighters, Fatal Fury, and Samurai Shodown.
SNK designer Yasuyuki Oda also commented on the announcement, calling Harada a longtime friend and rival. Oda said discussions about working together had gone on for years and that the partnership had finally become a reality.
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