Top 50 Most Influential People in the FGC – Part 10

We’re at the final entry of our Top 50 Most Influential People in the FGC project, where we highlight FGC’s shining stars and community leaders whose names are destined for the Halls of Fame. These figures, whether through their exceptional gaming skill, their extraordinary contributions to the community, or their tireless efforts in fostering growth and inclusivity, have helped shape the FGC into what it is today.

However, it's essential to note that while this list aims to honor some of the most remarkable individuals within the FGC, the inherent subjectivity of such rankings means that many other influential figures may not find themselves among these fifty names. The FGC is diverse and expansive, teeming with talent and dedication at every level, and influence often extends beyond the boundaries of a list. This compilation serves as a tribute to those who have undoubtedly played a significant role in the growth and evolution of the Fighting Game Community, but it's important to remember that the impact of countless others is equally valuable and deserving of recognition.

Today, we have industry icons that make millions of people happy with either their visionary direction for the games they make, or by organizing tournaments enjoyed but hundreds of thousands yearly. These people are Ed Boon, Masahiro Sakurai, Alex Jebailey, Rick "TheHadou" Thiher, and Katsuhiro Harada! Congratulations!

Alex Jebailey

As the founder of CEO Gaming, Jebailey has orchestrated some of the most iconic and memorable fighting game tournaments on the planet. His innovative approach to event organization, blending competitive intensity with a touch of showmanship, has elevated the spectator experience to new heights. He always pours his heart and soul into what he does, and his events like CEO Dreamland and CEOtaku are a testament to his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what competitive gaming can be. Alex Jebailey's impact on the FGC is not just about tournaments and competitions; it's about fostering a sense of community and camaraderie that transcends the digital arena. Please jebait us for many years to come!

Rick “TheHadou” Thiher

Rick “TheHadou” Thiher isn’t just a person running two big events. He’s a true community leader with everyone’s trust on his shoulders. After creating Combo Breaker, he steadily developed it into the premier fighting game destination, adding more tournaments, pro tours, and game announcements while staying grassroots-oriented, gaining the community’s trust and admiration in the process.

All this made him an ideal candidate for the role of Evo’s general manager after PlayStation acquired it from the previous owners. Now, leading two of the biggest FGC events on the calendar, he’s more active than ever in leading the community because he precisely understands the needs and requirements of both the grassroots and corporate sides. And there’s no one the FGC would trust more to maintain the balance.

Masahiro Sakurai

Sakurai's journey in the FGC began when he took the helm of the original Super Smash Bros. title for the Nintendo 64, released in 1999. Little did the gaming world know that this was just the start of a saga that would transcend generations, platforms, and competitive landscapes. Sakurai's ability to blend diverse universes and characters into a cohesive and accessible fighting experience has turned Super Smash Bros. into a cultural phenomenon. The franchise has become a staple at competitive gaming events, captivating both casual players and professional esports athletes alike. Under Sakurai's guidance, the series evolved into one of Nintendo’s many system-seller franchises, Smash continues to improve and impress, setting an example for many platform fighters to follow. And all of this is thanks to Sakurai’s vision and leadership.

Ed Boon

Renowned as the co-creator of the iconic Mortal Kombat franchise, Ed Boon has not only left a sizeable mark on the gaming industry but has also played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural landscape of competitive gaming. You wouldn’t be able to find a single person born in the 80s or 90s who hasn’t heard of Mortal Kombat. The series he created isn’t just a great fighting game franchise; it’s a cultural phenomenon. From iconic live-action and animated adaptations to countless copycats trying to repeat MK's success and visceral nature, it’s all a testament to the impactful legacy that Ed Boon has crafted.

From Midway Games to NetherRealm Studios, he personally oversaw the development of the first game, the sequels that reinforced the success, the spinoffs, the 2021 reboot, and the latest entry that’s currently taking the world by storm.

Katsuhiro Harada

Harada's journey began with a passion for creating immersive gaming experiences, leading him to become the producer and director of the iconic Tekken series. His vision led Tekken through the tumultuous times for the 3D fighting games, leaving it as the only big and active game on the market. As the driving force behind Tekken, Harada not only refined the mechanics of the genre but also infused it with cultural diversity, ensuring that players from all walks of life could find representation within the game. His dedication to authenticity and attention to detail has resonated with millions, transforming Tekken into a cultural phenomenon.

In 2019, Harada became a general manager at Bandai Namco Entertainment, now responsible for more than just Tekken. Still, he remains the executive producer of the upcoming game, and his leadership and direction still play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Tekken series.

And that's it for our Top 50 Most Influential People in the FGC series! Do you agree with the people we put on our top?