This extensive interview with Christopher Ortiz, creator of the beloved VA-11 Hall-A, delves deep into the development of Sukeban Games' latest project, .45 Parabellum Bloodhound. Ortiz discusses the unexpected success of VA-11 Hall-A, its merchandise, and the challenges of managing a growing fanbase. He also shares insights into the creative process, inspirations (including Suda51 and The Silver Case), and the team's journey. The interview covers the evolution of Sukeban Games, the creation of VA-11 Hall-A's iconic characters, and the unique challenges of navigating the indie game landscape. Ortiz provides detailed information about .45 Parabellum Bloodhound's development, including its visual style, gameplay mechanics, and inspirations, along with a glimpse into his personal life and creative influences. The interview concludes with a discussion of Ortiz's coffee preferences and anticipation for future projects.

TouchArcade (TA): Learn about Christopher Ortiz's role at Sukeban Games and his creative process.

Christopher Ortiz (CO): Ortiz describes himself as a game creator wearing many hats within the company, balancing work with enjoying leisure time.

TA: A retrospective on VA-11 Hall-A's phenomenal success, its global reception (especially in Japan), and the impact on Ortiz's recent visit to Japan for Bitsummit.

CO: Ortiz expresses his deep emotional connection to Japan and the overwhelming positive reception to VA-11 Hall-A and the upcoming .45 Parabellum Bloodhound. He reflects on his return to exhibiting at game events after a long hiatus.

TA: A discussion of VA-11 Hall-A's unexpected popularity and its extensive merchandise line, including the upcoming Jill figure.

CO: Ortiz admits to initially underestimating the game's success and expresses surprise at its scale.

TA: The long-awaited iPad version of VA-11 Hall-A is addressed, along with the possibility of an Xbox port.

CO: Ortiz reveals his involvement in playtesting an iPad build, but notes that its release depends on the publisher.

TA: The evolution of Sukeban Games' team size and structure is examined, along with the collaborative relationship with artist MerengeDoll.

CO: Ortiz discusses the growth of the team from two to six members, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a close-knit group. He praises MerengeDoll's artistic talents and resilience.

TA: The creative collaboration with composer Garoad on VA-11 Hall-A's critically acclaimed soundtrack is discussed.

CO: Ortiz describes the collaborative and organic nature of their work together, highlighting their shared musical influences and creative synergy.

TA: The significant impact of VA-11 Hall-A's merchandise, including the popular "SLUT" shirt and vinyl box sets, is explored.

CO: Ortiz reveals limited involvement in merchandise creation but expresses a desire for greater participation in future projects.

TA: The inspiration behind the Japanese art book cover for VA-11 Hall-A and the influence of personal experiences on Ortiz's artistic choices.

CO: Ortiz shares personal struggles during the creation of the art book cover and reveals its connection to Gustavo Cerati's music.

TA: The unexpected popularity of specific VA-11 Hall-A characters is discussed, and Ortiz reflects on the unpredictability of audience reception.

CO: Ortiz discusses the popularity of Stella and other characters, emphasizing the importance of allowing creative projects to organically evolve.

TA: The status of N1RV Ann-A and Ortiz's creative process for future projects are examined.

CO: Ortiz shares his approach to world-building and character development, noting that the development of N1RV Ann-A will accelerate after the release of .45 Parabellum Bloodhound.

TA: Ortiz's thoughts on Grasshopper Manufacture's work under Netease and the announced remasters, along with Suda51's desire to bring Flower, Sun, and Rain to Steam.

CO: Ortiz expresses hope that Netease's acquisition will provide Grasshopper Manufacture with the resources to continue creating high-quality games.

TA: The challenges of international game releases and merchandise distribution, particularly in Argentina and Brazil, are discussed.

CO: Ortiz shares his frustration with protectionist trade policies and their impact on importing goods.

TA: The development process for .45 Parabellum Bloodhound, its positive reception, and the team's experiences leading up to its reveal.

CO: Ortiz describes the development process as focused and enjoyable, emphasizing the team's efforts to manage expectations and avoid crunch.

TA: The inspirations behind .45 Parabellum Bloodhound's visual style and gameplay mechanics are revealed, along with the challenges of balancing accessibility and action-oriented gameplay.

CO: Ortiz details the influence of cities like Milan and Buenos Aires, emphasizing the importance of leveraging personal experiences and cultural identity. He explains the game's battle system as a bridge between visual novel fans and action game players.

TA: A deeper look into the team working on .45 Parabellum Bloodhound, including the composer Juneji, and the length of its development.

CO: Ortiz introduces the team members, discusses the challenges of long-term development, and highlights the team's dedication and resilience.

TA: The possibility of a PC demo for .45 Parabellum Bloodhound is discussed.

CO: Ortiz explains the challenges of maintaining a demo for the game but leaves the possibility open.

TA: The accessibility of .45 Parabellum Bloodhound for different player types is addressed.

CO: Ortiz states that it's too early to discuss difficulty but reiterates the intention to bridge the gap between different player preferences.

TA: Ortiz shares his favorite aspects of .45 Parabellum Bloodhound.

CO: Ortiz highlights the game's atmosphere, script, and combat system as his favorite elements.

TA: A development anecdote regarding the evolution of .45 Parabellum Bloodhound's setting and the influence of cultural identity on the creative process.

CO: Ortiz shares a story about shifting the game's setting from Hong Kong to a South American cyberpunk aesthetic, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and leveraging personal experiences.

TA: The publishing plans for .45 Parabellum Bloodhound are revealed.

CO: Ortiz discusses the plan to self-publish on PC and partner with other companies for console releases.

TA: The inspirations behind Reila Mikazuchi's character design are explored, referencing actor Meiko Kaji.

CO: Ortiz reveals the influence of Meiko Kaji on Reila's visual design and discusses the creative process behind her character.

TA: The possibility of smaller projects following .45 Parabellum Bloodhound is addressed.

CO: Ortiz states that there are no current plans for DLC or smaller projects.

TA: A glimpse into Ortiz's daily life and routines is provided.

CO: Ortiz shares details about his daily work schedule and how he balances work with leisure activities.

TA: Ortiz shares his recent gaming experiences and preferences.

CO: Ortiz lists several games he's recently enjoyed, showcasing a diverse range of titles.

TA: Ortiz discusses his thoughts on the current state of indie games.

CO: Ortiz expresses his admiration for the creativity and community within the indie game scene while also highlighting concerns about over-reliance on familiar tropes.

TA: Ortiz discusses his anticipation for upcoming games.

CO: Ortiz lists several indie games he's looking forward to playing.

TA: A detailed discussion of The Silver Case's influence on Ortiz's work.

CO: Ortiz shares his deep appreciation for The Silver Case, highlighting its impact on his creative process and visual style.

TA: Ortiz discusses his experiences playing The Silver Case on different platforms.

CO: Ortiz shares his experience playing The Silver Case on various platforms.

TA: Ortiz discusses the visual elements of The Silver Case that captivated him.

CO: Ortiz discusses the visual style of The Silver Case and its impact on his work.

TA: Ortiz shares his interactions with Suda51 and discusses whether Suda51 has played VA-11 Hall-A.

CO: Ortiz discusses his meetings with Suda51 and shares his thoughts on whether Suda51 has played VA-11 Hall-A.

TA: Ortiz's coffee preferences are discussed.

CO: Ortiz shares his preference for black coffee, particularly when paired with cheesecake.