This extensive interview delves into the mind of Christopher Ortiz, the creative force behind Sukeban Games and the beloved title, VA-11 Hall-A. 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 reflects on the evolution of Sukeban Games, highlighting the collaborative spirit with artists like MerengeDoll and composer Garoad.
The conversation covers the inspirations behind VA-11 Hall-A's characters and art style, referencing Ortiz's admiration for artists and musicians. He also shares insights into his creative process, emphasizing the importance of intuition and avoiding rigid formulas. A significant portion is dedicated to the highly anticipated new project, .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND, detailing its visual and gameplay inspirations, development process, and the team's approach to creating a unique experience. The interview touches upon Ortiz's personal life, his love for coffee, and his perspectives on the current state of indie game development.
Ortiz expresses his admiration for Suda51 and Grasshopper Manufacture, discussing his thoughts on their recent works and the impact of The Silver Case on his own creative vision. He also reveals details about the development of .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND, including the evolution of the protagonist's design and the decision to self-publish on PC while seeking a console publishing partner. The interview concludes with Ortiz sharing his current gaming interests and his excitement for upcoming indie titles.