Harada's Favorite Fighting Stick Unveiled

Tekken series producer and director, Katsuhiro Harada, recently discussed his favored fighting stick. Read on to learn more about the controller that has become an extension of himself and its sentimental significance.

Tekken Producer and Director Still Uses a PS3 Fight StickHarada’s Fightstick is his ‘Fighting EDGE’

Katsuhiro Harada, the Tekken series producer and director, noticed an Olympic sharpshooter using a custom arcade stick component during the recent Olympic Games. This led fans to inquire about his preferred fighting stick. Surprisingly, the Tekken 8 producer revealed his allegiance to the outdated Hori Fighting EDGE, a PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 fightstick no longer manufactured.

The Hori Fighting EDGE is unremarkable; a controller released twelve years ago. However, its serial number, "00765", is noteworthy. These digits sound like "Namco," the Tekken series' developer, in Japanese.

It's unclear if Harada requested that serial number, received it as a gift, or if it's coincidental. Regardless, the number holds significant sentimental value for Harada, representing the company's origins. His attachment is such that he’s incorporated those numbers into his car's license plate.

Given the availability of newer, top-tier fighting sticks like the Tekken 8 Pro FS Arcade Fight Stick—which Harada used during his EVO 2024 match against Twitch streamer LilyPichu—many were intrigued by his selection. While the Hori Fighting EDGE might lack the advanced features of newer models, the fact that it has been his loyal companion for so many years is enough for it to hold a special place in Harada’s heart.