Colonel Sanders in Tekken? The Boss Reaches Out to KFC!
Could we see Colonel Sanders in Tekken? Tekken boss Katsuhiro Harada certainly thinks so. Harada revealed that he once tried to include the famous fast-food icon in the game. Although his efforts were unsuccessful, the idea of Colonel Sanders in Tekken still sparks curiosity among fans.
Harada’s Attempt to Add Colonel Sanders
A KFC-inspired fighter almost made it into the Tekken roster.
Katsuhiro Harada, Tekken’s lead developer, has always sought unique additions to the series. In a recent interview, he explained that he approached KFC's Japan headquarters to explore adding Colonel Sanders in Tekken. Despite the novelty, the proposal was rejected due to concerns about the brand's image.
KFC’s Concerns Over Fighting
Why KFC may have said no to a Tekken collaboration.
While KFC's refusal left Harada puzzled, he later speculated that it wasn’t gaming itself that posed an issue, but rather the combat. Colonel Sanders fighting against someone might have conflicted with the mascot’s wholesome image. Interestingly, Sanders has appeared in other games, such as a dating simulator, which further adds to the mystery of KFC's decision.
Tekken’s Quirky Roster
Tekken’s history with unusual characters could have made this work.
Tekken is no stranger to unconventional characters. From bears to fighting robots, the franchise has always embraced the strange. Colonel Sanders would have fitted right in, offering fans a comical yet formidable fighter. Unfortunately, KFC wasn’t keen on the idea, leaving Tekken fans to imagine what might have been.
Heihachi Returns in Tekken 8
New fighters and a returning legend.
While Colonel Sanders in Tekken remains a dream, the upcoming Tekken 8 will bring back a familiar face. Heihachi Mishima, one of the series' main antagonists, will return this autumn. His reveal trailer at the Evo fighting event teased a new story mode chapter, "The Dark Awakens." Tekken 8 continues expanding its roster, though it seems Colonel Sanders won’t join the fight.
Will We Ever See Colonel Sanders in Tekken?
The door isn’t entirely closed.
While Colonel Sanders in Tekken didn’t happen this time, the idea isn’t entirely dead. Given Sanders’ appearance in other games, perhaps the fighting game community will someday convince KFC to reconsider. Until then, Tekken’s iconic fighters will have to battle without a bucket of chicken in sight.