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Tekken 8 director Katsuhiro Harada's unwavering dedication to the series sometimes clashed with Bandai Namco's corporate structure. Known for his rebellious spirit and refusal to compromise, Harada's approach, while beloved by fans, wasn't always understood internally. His commitment to Tekken, even defying expectations, sometimes strained relationships with colleagues.
Harada's unconventional path began early. He defied his parents' wishes to pursue a career in gaming, initially working at Bandai Namco as an arcade game promoter. Even with seniority, his rebellious streak persisted. He defied an unspoken rule by actively participating in Tekken's development despite being assigned to a publishing role – a move that went against the typical transition of lead developers into management. He effectively operated outside his assigned department to ensure Tekken's future.
This rebellious spirit extended to his team, whom Harada jokingly referred to as "outlaws" within Bandai Namco. Their unwavering dedication to the Tekken franchise, however, undeniably contributed to its lasting success.
However, Harada's tenure as Tekken's rebellious leader may be nearing its end. He's stated that Tekken 9 will be his final project before retirement. The future of the franchise and whether his successor can maintain his legacy remains to be seen.
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