This extensive interview with Christopher Ortiz (kiririn51) of Sukeban Games delves deep into the creation of their acclaimed titles, VA-11 Hall-A and the upcoming .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND. Ortiz discusses the unexpected success of VA-11 Hall-A, its merchandise, and the challenges of porting to various platforms, including the abandoned iPad version. He also shares insights into the team's evolution, collaborations with key artists like MerengeDoll and Garoad, and the inspirations behind the games' unique visual styles and soundtracks.
The conversation touches upon Ortiz's personal experiences, influences (including a strong admiration for Suda51 and The Silver Case), and reflections on the current state of indie game development. He reveals the creative process behind .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND, its gameplay mechanics inspired by titles like Parasite Eve, and the visual design influenced by the urban landscapes of Milan and Buenos Aires. The interview also features a discussion of the game's characters, particularly Reila Mikazuchi, and Ortiz's approach to balancing originality with personal experiences and cultural sensitivity.
Ortiz candidly discusses the challenges and rewards of independent game development, the emotional toll of working on long-term projects, and the importance of maintaining a strong team dynamic. He expresses his excitement about the positive fan reception to .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND, the creation of fan art, and the potential for future collaborations and console ports. The interview concludes with a personal look at Ortiz's daily life, gaming habits, and preferences, including a detailed description of his coffee ritual.
This interview provides a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and personal journey of a talented indie game developer.