For some time now, Tekken fans have been clamoring for a unique experience: a trip to Waffle House, but not in real life. Instead, they're eager to see it as a stage within the game. Despite the enthusiasm from the community and even Tekken 8's director, Katsuhiro Harada, expressing interest, there hasn't been a positive response from Waffle House itself.
On X/Twitter, Harada engaged with fans still passionately requesting a Waffle House stage in Tekken 8. This demand has gained significant traction, especially since Harada has shown a keen interest in exploring this possibility further.
Harada conveyed that he "fully understands" the fans' requests and has been proactive in trying to make it a reality. He revealed, "Over the past year or more, I've actually tried to make contact through several different channels," but speculates that the lack of response might be due to the association of his projects with "fighting-themed video games."
"Over the past year or more, I've actually tried to make contact through several different channels," Harada stated on X/Twitter. "However, and this is purely my own speculation, I suspect that the lack of response may be due to the fact that the project I'm known for revolves around 'fighting-themed video games.'"To be honest, within the bounds of what I can say, I fully understand your (you guys) request—that's precisely why I had considered taking on this challenge. In fact, I had already been thinking about it quite a while ago.
Over the past year or more, I've actually tried to make… https://t.co/Sa5oSpk2IZ
— Katsuhiro Harada (@Harada_TEKKEN) May 13, 2025
Harada emphasized that "no response" is a rare occurrence. He also mentioned that if using an alternative name or format is acceptable, as long as "the core message is maintained," he would be open to reevaluating and exploring this concept again.
It appears that fans won't see Kazuya and Jin battling it out under the iconic yellow lights of a Waffle House anytime soon. However, a parody or an in-universe equivalent might be possible. Harada suggested "Hustle House" as a potential alternative, which could be a viable option.
Currently, Tekken 8 is rolling out Patch 2.01, following the announcement of Fahkumram's addition to the roster. Back in April, Harada addressed fan frustrations over Tekken 8's Season 2, stating that the tuning team is working "around the clock" to incorporate feedback and enhance future updates.
