SNK Corporation has announced a strategic investment in a new game development studio founded by Katsuhiro Harada, a long-time producer for Bandai Namco Entertainment best known for his work on the Tekken fighting game series. The announcement was made via a press release from the Japanese video game company on Tuesday.
The new entity, named VS Studio, will collaborate with SNK on game software development. According to the official statement, SNK will support the launch of the studio and plans to make it a consolidated subsidiary. The arrangement marks a formal partnership between the Osaka based publisher and the veteran developer.
Harada is widely recognized within the fighting game community for overseeing the Tekken franchise for more than two decades. He also served as a producer on the crossover title Tekken 7 and was a prominent figure in the development of Bandai Namco’s Soulcalibur series. His departure from Bandai Namco was first reported last year, though the company did not confirm the details of his exit at the time.
Strategic rationale behind the investment
SNK stated that the collaboration with VS Studio is intended to “further strengthen their development capabilities.” The company has been aggressive in expanding its portfolio since its acquisition by Saudi Arabia’s MiSK Foundation in 2020. SNK owns notable intellectual properties such as The King of Fighters, Samurai Shodown, and Fatal Fury.
The partnership with Harada could help SNK bolster its presence in the competitive fighting game market, which has seen a resurgence in popularity with titles like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8. SNK has been working on a new entry in the Fatal Fury series, titled Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, which is expected to launch later this year.
Harada’s background and industry implications
Harada left Bandai Namco in 2023 after a 30 year tenure. During his time at the company, he became one of the most recognizable figures in video game development, often appearing at tournaments and events wearing his signature sunglasses. He was also involved in the production of the Tekken animated series and the Tekken mobile game.
Industry analysts have noted that Harada’s experience with high profile fighting game franchises could provide SNK with valuable insights into game design, online infrastructure, and esports integration. SNK has been investing in its online capabilities and tournament support, aiming to compete with larger publishers such as Capcom and Bandai Namco.
Financial and corporate structure
The press release did not disclose the financial terms of the investment. However, SNK confirmed that it plans to make VS Studio a consolidated subsidiary, which means SNK will hold a controlling stake in the studio. This structure allows SNK to integrate the studio’s operations into its broader corporate strategy while still allowing Harada creative autonomy.
VS Studio will be based in Tokyo, according to reports from Japanese media. The studio is expected to begin hiring immediately, focusing on positions for game designers, programmers, and artists. No specific project details have been announced, but speculation within the industry points to the development of a new fighting game or a revival of an existing franchise.
Looking ahead
SNK has indicated that VS Studio will begin operations in the first half of 2025. The company has not provided a timeline for the first game release from the partnership. Further announcements regarding specific projects and key personnel are expected in the coming months. SNK is scheduled to hold its next major showcase at the Tokyo Game Show in September.
Source: GamesIndustry.biz
