Designer Katsuhiro Harada announced in December 2025 that he is leaving Bandai Namco and the Tekken series he has worked on for 31 years. It seems that this veteran is not ready for retirement after all, as he returns to his passion (fighting video games). Harada has founded a new studio called VS Studio in collaboration with SNK.
The headquarters will be in Shinagawa, Tokyo, and this studio will assist SNK with video game software to further strengthen their development skills. "I am very proud to welcome Mr. Katsuhiro Harada, who has been my friend for many years, but also an adversary in terms of the video game genre. We have talked for a long time about the hypothetical scenario of working together, and now that dream has become a reality. To be honest, we haven't decided anything yet, but I have no doubt that things will become more exciting than before. We look forward to your continued support for SNK and VS Studio," said SNK's Yasuyuki Oda in an official media statement.
Harada also commented, saying: "We are pleased to announce the establishment of our new video game development studio named VS Studio. Our philosophy is 'above tradition, forged to perfection.' We will combine technology, sensitivity, and global experience to achieve the greatest goal. From a free, open, and spacious environment, we will create new ideas and unforgettable games. That is why we established this studio to realize our vision. The VS in the name represents our roots in Video game Soft (VS development department), the spirit of combativeness, and many other symbols of challenge and innovation such as: Visionary Standard, Volition Shift, and Vanguard Spirit."
He also added that: "I have been involved in video game development for many years and have always thought about how I want to spend my time as a designer and what kind of environment best provides that. VS Studio is one of the answers to that question. By combining technology and knowledge with the work of colleagues who also share the passion, we want to bring the best gaming experience to players around the world. VS Studio is inspired to become just that and to continue the fight against challenges, which is why we are also looking for new team members who will share the vision."
