This extensive interview with Christopher Ortiz, creator of the acclaimed game VA-11 Hall-A, delves into his career, inspirations, and the highly anticipated new project, .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND. Ortiz discusses the unexpected success of VA-11 Hall-A, its merchandise, and the challenges of porting the game to different platforms, including the abandoned iPad version. He also shares insights into the creative process, his collaborations with other artists, and his personal influences, including the works of Suda51 and the impact of specific cities on his artistic vision.
The interview covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of Sukeban Games as a studio to the development process of .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND, its visual style, and gameplay mechanics. Ortiz details the inspirations behind the game's aesthetic, drawing parallels to classic games and his personal experiences in cities like Milan and Buenos Aires. He also reflects on the current state of indie game development, expressing both excitement and concern about the industry's trends.
A significant portion of the interview focuses on the design and character of Reila Mikazuchi, the protagonist of .45 PARABELLUM BLOODHOUND, with Ortiz revealing the influences behind her striking visual style and personality. He also addresses fan reactions to the game's announcement and discusses plans for future projects and potential console releases. The conversation concludes with a personal reflection on Ortiz's daily life, his favorite games, and his preferred beverage—black coffee, ideally paired with cheesecake.
