- Tekken creator Katsuhiro Harada has founded a new studio called VS Studio
- The developer will be supported by Fatal Fury publisher SNK
- VS Studio will develop new, unannounced projects under SNK
Fatal Fury publisher SNK has announced its investment in a newly established game development studio founded by Tekken creator Katsuhiro Harada.
VS Studio was established earlier this month and will be supported by SNK, which will help launch the new team and plans to make it a consolidated subsidiary. The new studio and the publisher will also collaborate on brand new, unannounced development projects to "further strengthen their development capabilities."
"We are pleased to announce the launch of our new game development studio, VS Studio," said CEO Katsuhiro Harada in a press release. "VS Studio's philosophy is 'Beyond tradition, crafted to perfection.' We will combine technology, sensibility, and world-class expertise to pursue the ultimate.
"From a free, open, and spacious environment, we will generate new ideas and create memorable games. We established this studio to bring this vision to life."
According to Harada, the "VS" in the studio's name holds various meanings, but mainly represents its roots in "Video game Soft (VS Development Division)," the spirit of "Versus" challenging tradition, as well as other meanings that symbolize "innovation and challenge" such as "Visionary Standard," "Volition Shift," and "Vanguard Spirit."
"Having been involved in game development for many years, I've constantly considered how I want to spend my time as a developer and what kind of environment allows developers to perform at their best. VS Studio is one answer to that question," Harada continued.
"By bringing together technology and knowledge, and working with passionate colleagues, we aim to deliver the best gaming experiences to users worldwide. VS Studio aspires to be a studio that continues to take on such challenges, and we are looking for new team members who share our vision. Please look forward to the future of VS Studio."
Harada, who was the Tekken series director and producer, left Bandai Namco at the end of 2025 as the iconic franchise celebrated its 30th anniversary. At the time, the developer confirmed that he'd planned to depart the company for several years and had gradually handed over all his responsibilities to the team.
"I am extremely proud to welcome Mr. Katsuhiro Harada, who has been a long-time friend and a worthy rival to us, into our group," said SNK game designer Yasuyuki Oda.
"We’ve long discussed the hypothetical scenario of working together, and now that dream has become a reality. To be honest, nothing has been decided yet, but I have no doubt that things will become even more exciting than ever before. We look forward to your continued support for SNK and VS Studio."
