Sucker Punch Productions co-founder Brian Fleming is leaving the gaming studio after working there since it opened 28 years ago in 1997. What’s he doing next? Fleming says he does not know.
In a post on LinkedIn, Fleming said, “I really don’t know what’s next.”
He’s staying with Sucker Punch through April 2026 to help with the transition efforts, and after that he said he plans to travel. He’s also going to spend the time trying to “sort out which opportunities” he wants to pursue next. Fleming said he’s considering a lot of different options for the future, including staying in games, moving to the wider technology space, getting into the “entertainment” business, and even working in the “advocacy/politics” areas.
“After 28 absolutely life changing years at the helm of Sucker Punch, I’ve decided it’s time to shake up the snow-globe,” he said.
Jason Connell (Ghost of Tsushima and Yotei co-creative director) and Adrian Bentley (technical director) will take over as co-studio heads on January 1. Nate Fox will continue his role as co-creative director. Fleming said he’s leaving Sucker Punch “in the capable hands of the strongest leadership team we’ve ever had.”
“They are all so capable and so READY for new challenges that I have nothing but confidence the studio will continue to flourish,” he explained.
After releasing the N64 game Rocket: Robot on Wheels in 1999, Sucker Punch’s first big hit was 2002’s Sly Cooper, which became a franchise that spawned multiple sequels. In 2009, the studio released Infamous, which would also become a success. Sony acquired Sucker Punch in 2011.
Next up for Sucker Punch in 2026’s Ghost of Yotei: Legends, which is free multiplayer DLC.