Sucker Punch Co-Founder Steps Down as Studio Head to Begin New Era of Creative Leadership

Brian Fleming, co-founder and head of Sucker Punch, has announced his departure from the studio after an impressive 28-year run. He will remain on board until the end of April to ensure a smooth transition, after which Jason Connell and Adrian Bentley will step in as co-studio heads.

Jason Connell began his journey at Sucker Punch as the lighting director for the Infamous series and has since taken on the role of creative and art director for the Ghost series. Adrian Bentley, who started as an engine and gameplay programmer on Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves, now serves as the technical director, focusing on the studio’s technical aspects.

The leadership change was initially shared in a blog post titled ‘Sucker Punch Productions co-founder Brian Fleming passes the reins to the next chapter of creative leadership.’ Fleming later elaborated on his decision to step down in a statement, expressing his thoughts on what lies ahead.

“So, what do you think I should do next? That’s the big question,” Fleming wrote. “After 28 life-changing years at Sucker Punch, I’ve decided it’s time to shake up the snow-globe. I leave 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.”

Fleming also shared his plans for the future. “And me? I really don’t know what’s next,” he continued. “I’m going to stay at SP through April to assist with the transition, and then take some time with Krista to visit friends and places we’ve always wanted to go. Meanwhile, I’m trying to sort out which opportunities I want to explore next… Some industry, some tech, some entertainment, and some advocacy/politics stuff are all part of the space I’m thinking hard about.”

Here’s hoping that Connell and Bentley are huge Sly Cooper fans.

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