Sukeban Games Interview: Kiririn51 Discusses 'Bloodhound' Vision, Inspirations

This extensive interview with Christopher Ortiz, the creative mind behind Sukeban Games, delves deep into the development of their acclaimed titles, VA-11 Hall-A and the upcoming .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND. Ortiz shares personal anecdotes, design inspirations, and insights into the creative process, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of indie game development.

The conversation begins with Ortiz's background and current role at Sukeban Games, followed by a reflection on the overwhelming success of VA-11 Hall-A, its unexpected global reach, and the enthusiastic reception in Japan. The interview touches upon the game's enduring popularity, the extensive merchandise, and the now-infamous "slut" shirt. Ortiz discusses the evolution of the Sukeban Games team, highlighting collaborations with key individuals like MerengeDoll and Garoad, whose contributions to the visual and musical aspects of VA-11 Hall-A are pivotal to its success.

A significant portion of the interview focuses on .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND. Ortiz details the game's visual and gameplay inspirations, drawing parallels to classic titles like Vagrant Story, and explains the design choices behind the protagonist, Reila Mikazuchi. The discussion also includes the team's approach to development, their creative process, and their plans for future releases. Ortiz's reflections on the indie game landscape, his admiration for Suda51 and The Silver Case, and his personal preferences, including his love for coffee and cheesecake, add a personal touch to the interview.

The interview concludes with Ortiz's thoughts on the current state of indie game development, his excitement for upcoming titles, and a final reflection on the creative journey that has shaped Sukeban Games. The conversation is peppered with candid observations, humorous anecdotes, and a genuine passion for game creation, making it a compelling read for both fans of Sukeban Games and those interested in the indie game development process.