This extensive interview delves into the mind of Christopher Ortiz, the creator behind the acclaimed indie game VA-11 Hall-A, and offers a glimpse into Sukeban Games' latest project, .45 Parabellum Bloodhound. Ortiz discusses the unexpected success of VA-11 Hall-A, its merchandise, and the challenges and triumphs of independent game development. He also shares insights into his inspirations, including Suda51 and The Silver Case, and offers a fascinating look at the creative process behind .45 Parabellum Bloodhound's unique visual style and gameplay mechanics.
The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of Sukeban Games as a team to the challenges of navigating international game releases and the complexities of cultural inspiration in game design. Ortiz reflects on the overwhelmingly positive fan response to .45 Parabellum Bloodhound's announcement and shares anecdotes about the development process, including the evolution of the game's setting and the design of its protagonist, Reila Mikazuchi.
The interview also touches upon Ortiz's personal life, his love for coffee, and his thoughts on the current state of indie game development. He expresses both excitement and concern about the industry's trends, highlighting the importance of originality and creative risk-taking. The conversation concludes with a discussion of The Silver Case, a game that has profoundly influenced Ortiz's work, and a look forward to future projects.
