Tekken's renowned producer and director, Katsuhiro Harada, recently revealed his trusty fighting stick, a controller that's become an integral part of his gaming journey. Discover the story behind this cherished piece of equipment and its sentimental significance.
Tekken's Mastermind Favors a Classic PS3 Fightstick
Harada's Fighting EDGE: A Legacy of Loyalty
Katsuhiro Harada, the driving force behind the Tekken franchise, sparked curiosity among fans after noticing a custom arcade stick used by an Olympic sharpshooter. This led to questions about his own preferred controller. Surprisingly, Harada confessed his unwavering allegiance to the now-discontinued Hori Fighting EDGE, a PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 fightstick.
The Hori Fighting EDGE itself isn't extraordinary; it's a twelve-year-old controller. However, its serial number, "00765," holds a special meaning. This number corresponds to the Japanese pronunciation of "Namco," Tekken's parent company.
Whether Harada specifically requested this serial number, received it as a gift, or it was a chance occurrence remains unknown. Regardless, the number carries deep sentimental value for Harada, representing his company's heritage. His affection for "00765" extends beyond the fightstick; he even incorporates it into his car's license plate.
Given the availability of modern, high-tech fighting sticks like the Tekken 8 Pro FS Arcade Fight Stick (used by Harada during his EVO 2024 match against LilyPichu), his choice is intriguing. While the Hori Fighting EDGE may lack the advanced features of newer models, its enduring companionship over countless years makes it irreplaceable to Harada.
