Tekken Director's Preferred Fight Stick Uncovered

Tekken's renowned producer and director, Katsuhiro Harada, recently revealed his trusty fighting stick, a testament to his dedication and a piece of gaming history. Discover the story behind this controller, a cherished companion with sentimental significance.

Harada's Fighting Stick: A Legacy of Loyalty

The Hori Fighting EDGE: More Than Just a Controller

Katsuhiro Harada, the driving force behind the Tekken franchise, sparked curiosity among fans after observing 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 Hori Fighting EDGE, a PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 fightstick discontinued years ago.

While the Hori Fighting EDGE is unremarkable in its design—a twelve-year-old controller—its serial number, "00765," holds a special place in Harada's heart. This number is a phonetic equivalent of "Namco," the company behind the Tekken series.

The origin of this serial number remains a mystery—a deliberate request, a thoughtful gift, or a fortunate coincidence? Regardless, the number's connection to Namco's legacy imbues it with profound sentimental value for Harada, extending even to his car's license plate.

Given the existence 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 all the more intriguing. While lacking the advanced features of newer models, the Hori Fighting EDGE's enduring companionship over countless years makes it irreplaceable to Harada.