It's a one-two move with Sucker Punch's Chris Zimmerman and Brian Fleming. Now shipping Ghost of Yotei, they tell us about leaving Microsoft for Sony and becoming a gamedev powerhouse. Tales of exact pitches and being great instead of good - this week!Episode Highlights[00:00:00] Intro: Chris Zimmerman & Brian Fleming of Sucker Punch ProductionsAn introduction to Chris and Brian, co-founders of Sucker Punch Productions (Sly Cooper, Infamous, Ghost of Tsushima).[00:08:23] “Name it Anything But Sucker Punch”Brian and Chris talk about the founding of Sucker Punch and how the studio got its name. [00:14:06] Early Days at MicrosoftBrian and Chris reminisce on learning how to run a business, trial and error, and early days at Microsoft.[00:21:04] Growing Up in the “Right” PlaceBrian and Chris trade stories of growing up and working in tech in the early 90s. [00:27:54] Leaving Microsoft and Starting Sucker PunchChris and Brian talk about leaving Microsoft, building a team from scratch, making their first games, and landing a deal with Ubisoft.[00:37:17] The Silver LiningAfter a release riddled with mistakes, the team lands a first party deal for their next game series, Sly Cooper. [00:47:28] Was Sony the Right Choice?Chris and Brian discuss the advantage of having a stable, long-term relationship with your publisher and building trust.[00:51:19] How Ghost of Tsushima StartedFrom an alpha that never got approval, to developing one of the fastest-selling first-party PlayStation titles and a BAFTA-winning game.[01:01:50] The Studio Now vs. Then and COVID’s ImpactReleasing 3 months into the COVID-19 pandemic, Chris and Brian review how they adjusted their plans and how the studio has evolved over time.[1:10:27] Outro: Closing RemarksSupport the showThank you for listening to our podcast all about videogames and the amazing people who bring them to life!Hosted by Alexander Seropian and Aaron MarroquinFind us at www.thefourthcurtain.comJoin our Patreon for early, ad-free episodes plus bonus content at https://patreon.com/FourthCurtainCome join the conversation at https://discord.gg/KWeGE4xHfeVideos available at https://www.youtube.com/@thefourthcurtainFollow us on Twitter: @fourthcurtainEdited and mastered at https://noise-floor.comAudio Editor: Bryen HensleyVideo Editor: Sarkis GrigorianProducer: Kimya TaheriArt: Paul RusselCommunity Manager: Doug ZartmanFeaturing Liberation by 505