Former Tekken Director Harada Launches VS Studio at SNK

Katsuhiro Harada has opened VS Studio in Tokyo this week and assumed the roles of CEO and game director. The new studio operates within SNK Corporation and will develop original games while recruiting new team members.

Harada outlined the studio’s guiding phrase as “Beyond tradition, crafted to perfection.” In a statement he wrote the studio will combine technology, sensibility and world-class expertise and aims to foster a free, open and spacious workplace to generate ideas and games.

Harada explained the letters ‘VS’ carry multiple meanings, referencing SNK’s ‘Video game Soft’ development roots, the competitive sense of ‘Versus’ and other concepts he listed, including ‘Visionary Standard,’ ‘Volition Shift’ and ‘Vanguard Spirit.’ He said the studio reflects his thinking on the type of environment where developers can perform at their best.

SNK confirmed the establishment of VS Studio within its corporate structure. SNK is owned by the Electronic Gaming Development Company, a subsidiary of the MiSK Foundation. VS Studio will be based in Tokyo and is currently recruiting staff.

Harada is best known for directing the Tekken series at Bandai Namco; he left that company in December after Tekken’s 30th anniversary. SNK’s recent fighter Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves maintains an active competitive scene and has featured guest fighters such as Cristiano Ronaldo and DJ Salvatore Ganacci.

Harada invited people who share the studio’s goals to apply. He did not disclose project details, release schedules or staffing numbers. SNK and VS Studio indicated they will provide further information as the studio begins operations.