Sucker Punch Productions, renowned for its immersive open-world experiences, has carved a niche in the gaming landscape with titles like Ghost of Tsushima and its eagerly awaited sequel, Ghost of Yōtei. While the studio’s recent endeavors have focused on the lush landscapes of feudal Japan, its roots trace back to the Infamous series and the beloved Sly Cooper, a franchise that captivated audiences during the PS2 era.
Reflections on Sly Cooper
In a recent interview with MinnMax, Sucker Punch’s Nate Fox addressed the potential for a new Sly Cooper game. When asked about the likelihood of the development team being interested in reviving the series, Fox candidly estimated that only “ten percent” of the developers would be enthusiastic about such a project. This response caught host Ben Hanson off guard, prompting Fox to clarify the long hiatus since the last installment, which was released in 2013 and not developed by Sucker Punch.
However, the fate of Sly Cooper lies beyond the studio’s control. The franchise is owned by Sony, meaning any revival would require the publisher’s endorsement. While it remains a possibility that Sony could delegate the project to another developer, the company has recently shown a preference for pursuing a live-service model, which has not resonated well with all fans.
Looking Ahead
As for Sucker Punch’s current projects, Ghost of Yōtei stands out as one of the few single-player exclusives in Sony’s lineup. Scheduled for release on October 6 for the PS5, there is speculation that a PC version may follow, potentially arriving in 2026. This aligns with Sony’s recent trend of bringing its titles to the PC platform, much to the delight of a broader gaming audience.
In a lighthearted moment during the interview, Fox shared that the team celebrated the delay of Grand Theft Auto 6 with a bit of revelry, humorously noting, “We’re all still hungover. Multi-month hangover. That was a great day.” This candidness reflects the camaraderie within the studio, even as they continue to push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay in their upcoming titles.
