VS Studio Founded by Former Tekken Director Katsuhiro Harada

Katsuhiro Harada, the longtime director of the Tekken series, has established a new Tokyo-based game development studio called VS Studio, which is expected to become a consolidated subsidiary of SNK Corporation.

VS Studio was founded on May 1 and is headquartered in Tokyo. SNK has announced its support for the studio's launch and plans to collaborate on future game software development.

Background

Harada departed Bandai Namco in December 2024 (according to one source) or December 2025 (according to another source). He previously worked on the Tekken fighting game series at Bandai Namco for many years.

Studio Details

Harada serves as Representative Director and CEO of VS Studio. The studio lists its philosophy as: "Beyond tradition, crafted to perfection."

Harada stated that the name "VS" carries multiple meanings, including:

• Video game Soft (VS Development Division)
• Versus
• Visionary Standard
• Volition Shift
• Vanguard Spirit

Harada described the studio as an environment intended to generate new ideas and create games. He stated that the studio was established to combine technology and expertise to deliver gaming experiences to users worldwide. The studio is currently recruiting talent, and its official website is scheduled to launch in June 2025.

Industry Reactions

SNK developer Yasuyuki Oda remarked that Harada has been a long-time acquaintance and rival, and that the two had discussed working together. Oda stated that no specific projects have been decided but expressed optimism about future collaboration.

Future Projects

No information has been provided regarding the studio's first project.