Katsuhiro Harada, the esteemed producer and director of the Tekken series, recently shared insights into his preferred fighting stick, offering fans a glimpse into the tool that has become an integral part of his gaming experience. Delve into the story behind Harada's choice and the sentimental value it holds for him.

Tekken Producer and Director Still Rocks a PS3 Fight Stick

Harada’s Fightstick is his ‘Fighting EDGE’

Katsuhiro Harada's interest in custom arcade sticks was piqued after observing an Olympic Sharpshooter's use of a specialized part during the Olympic Games. This sparked curiosity among fans about his own gaming setup. Surprisingly, Harada revealed his continued dedication to the Hori Fighting EDGE, a fightstick originally designed for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, which is no longer manufactured.

The Hori Fighting EDGE itself isn't particularly notable; it's a controller from twelve years ago. However, its serial number, "00765", holds a special significance. These digits correspond to the Japanese pronunciation of "Namco", the iconic company behind the Tekken series. Whether Harada specifically requested this serial number, received it as a thoughtful gift from Hori, or it was a fortunate coincidence remains a mystery. Nonetheless, this number deeply resonates with Harada, symbolizing the roots of his beloved company. His attachment to it is so strong that he has even incorporated these numbers into his car's license plate.

Despite the allure of modern, advanced fighting sticks like the Tekken 8 Pro FS Arcade Fight Stick, which Harada utilized in his EVO 2024 match against Twitch streamer LilyPichu, his preference for the Hori Fighting EDGE remains unwavering. While newer models boast enhanced features, the sentimental value and longstanding companionship of the Hori Fighting EDGE secure its irreplaceable position in Harada's heart.