Sukeban Games: Inside the Making of .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND

This extensive interview delves into the mind of Christopher Ortiz, the creator behind the beloved indie game VA-11 Hall-A, and offers a fascinating glimpse into the development of his upcoming project, .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND. Ortiz discusses his journey, inspirations, and the overwhelmingly positive reception of his previous work.

The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including:

• The unexpected success of VA-11 Hall-A: Ortiz reveals his initial sales expectations were far lower than the game's actual performance, highlighting the surprising scale of its success and the ongoing impact it continues to have. He also addresses the long-awaited (and ultimately unreleased) iPad version.

• The evolution of Sukeban Games: From a two-person team to a larger, yet still tightly-knit, group, Ortiz discusses the growth and collaborative spirit within the studio, particularly highlighting the contributions of key collaborators like MerengeDoll and Garoad.

• Merchandise and fan engagement: Ortiz shares his perspective on the extensive merchandise created for VA-11 Hall-A, expressing a desire for more involvement in future merchandise production for .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND.

• Inspirations and influences: The interview explores Ortiz's artistic inspirations, including his admiration for Gustavo Cerati and the impact of his personal experiences on his work. He also discusses the influence of Suda51 and The Silver Case, a game that profoundly impacted his creative process.

• .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND development: Ortiz provides detailed insights into the development process of .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND, including the game's unique gameplay mechanics, visual style, and the challenges faced during its creation. He also discusses the team's approach to balancing accessibility and difficulty.

• The future of Sukeban Games: The interview concludes with a discussion of future plans, including the possibility of console ports for .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND and the potential for future projects.

Throughout the interview, Ortiz shares personal anecdotes, reflections on the gaming industry, and his passion for creating unique and engaging experiences. The interview is filled with insightful commentary on the creative process, the challenges of indie game development, and the importance of personal experiences as a source of inspiration.