Random: Katsuhiro Harada Describes Masahiro Sakurai As “A Saiyan”
Legendary developer Masahiro Sakurai has earned widespread respect across the gaming industry, and his peers frequently acknowledge his exceptional contributions. Former Tekken director Katsuhiro Harada recently offered a humorous yet telling tribute, describing Sakurai as “A Saiyan”—a playful comparison that underscores his seemingly superhuman dedication and abilities in game development.
Sakurai’s portfolio demonstrates why such admiration is warranted. He has led the development of multiple acclaimed titles, including Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Kirby Air Riders, and Kid Icarus: Uprising. Beyond his direct game development work, Sakurai has become an influential figure in the broader industry through his comprehensive YouTube channel dedicated to game development education.
Harada’s Saiyan comparison appears to reference not just Sakurai’s professional accomplishments, but also his work ethic and passion—with the anecdote noting that he sometimes expresses himself in ways reminiscent of Goku, the legendary Saiyan protagonist of Dragon Ball. This lighthearted observation reflects the genuine appreciation Sakurai commands from fellow industry veterans who recognize his unique combination of technical expertise, creative vision, and commitment to advancing game development as a discipline.