Sacred Symbols+, #405 | When Grief Is Hijacked
Added 2024-09-14 16:00:08 +0000 UTCPlease welcome renowned actor and game studio head Abubakar Salim to Sacred+. You may know Salim best for his roles in shows like House of the Dragon, Raised by Wolves, and Jamestown, Ridley Scott's Napoleon film, and even in games like Assassin's Creed Origins and World of Warcraft. But he recently came to my (Colin's) attention because of his studio Surgent's first game, a delightful EA Originals-published Metroidvania called Tales of Kenzera: Zau. I really liked it, ended up Platinuming it, and then shared a Sacred Symbols clip on social media talking about my experience. This got his attention, and ultimately we were able to get in touch and put this episode together. I wanted to talk to Abubakar not about the ins-and-outs of his game specifically, but rather about the completely unearned chaos that seemed to surround it post-release. A lot of the negativity came off to me as forced, misdirected, and -- at worst -- racist. After all, this is a game about loss, grief, and overcoming a terrible tragedy, and has nothing to do whatsoever with race, gender, politics, or pretty much any other potential and predictable third rail. But listening to much of the outside narrative, you would think quite the opposite was true.
Comments
Late listening to this, but wow this was such a great conversation. Abubakar Salim is a delight. Wasn’t planning on playing Tales of Kenzera: Zau, but after listening to this I’m for sure picking it up.
Cyprus Davis
2024-09-29 14:05:16 +0000 UTCI’m late to commenting on this post, but I listened right when it dropped, and thought this was a great conversation! Abubakar’s comments on how he interpreted grief as a sort of Metroidvania was super interesting, and cool how that was how he approached developing the game. I picked the game up right after listening and I can’t wait to play it.
Lucas Hixon
2024-09-20 16:28:49 +0000 UTCVery thoughtful and interesting interview. Well done!
Jason Little
2024-09-19 16:26:26 +0000 UTCGreat interview! Abubakar seems like a super cool and down to earth guy. Hopefully he can come back on the show sometime!
Benjamin Pope
2024-09-19 13:50:26 +0000 UTCWhat a great interview, I was on the fence about checking out the game but will definitely give it a go now! I would love to see Abubakar come back on the show, well done Colin
Steve Gray
2024-09-19 07:25:15 +0000 UTCI remember Deathloop being called "woke" because you play as a black guy in it. These people simply can't be reasoned with
Luke Oliveto
2024-09-18 17:28:32 +0000 UTCIm looking forward to checking this out sometime soon! Hope to see Insurgent continue with a new project in the next few years.
Anthony Palerino
2024-09-18 14:22:44 +0000 UTCReally good to hear nuanced conversation. The game is great btw!
Elliott Morgan
2024-09-18 13:56:33 +0000 UTCA well-spoken interview on both sides, and I appreciate that. But it felt like Abubakar dodged the question as to what Sweet Baby Inc actually consulted on in the game -- whether intentionally or unintentionally.
Kevin Cooper
2024-09-18 12:51:47 +0000 UTCI am sad that Zau was cough on this, the game doesn't deserve it, however every game that has had sweet baby inc in it has been worse for it and had always had the same shit stink on it, on some games less (GoW ragnarok) and on some more (ssktjl) but always that stink. They have been such a bane on gaming that people went scorched earth with them and zau was caught on the crosshairs. However I don't know why they even had to work with them to be honest. It is an unfortunate situation.
Fotis Lyto
2024-09-18 10:12:10 +0000 UTCExcellent conversation. I bought this game because of Colin and also got the platinum. Had a great time with it and enjoyed the story 🙏🏻
Mykal
2024-09-17 23:28:36 +0000 UTCAbubakar is so cool. I loved Raised By Wolves and he was the best part. He was great on KF but I'd much rather hear him with Colin. I hope he comes back!
Tim Leibfritz
2024-09-17 23:25:15 +0000 UTCIf this guy wants some sort of vindication, he should make a strong sophomore attempt
Alec Davis
2024-09-17 18:32:06 +0000 UTCIf only there were a way for you to find out for sure...
Pauly Twos
2024-09-17 14:59:01 +0000 UTCAwesome interview🔥 Looking forward for a follow up one ❤️ After finishing Astro bot looking forward in trying out this game
🌊Finna D. Fresh Flow🌊
2024-09-17 14:42:36 +0000 UTCNice interview
Vito Chiaramonte
2024-09-17 13:36:24 +0000 UTCGame looks not bad but just middling and bland.
Casey Cieslikowski
2024-09-17 13:15:57 +0000 UTCThe comparison of metroidvanias and grief is so interesting and cool. Never thought of it like that but after hearing him explain it I totally see the similarities he drew from to make his game.
James
2024-09-17 12:41:17 +0000 UTCDoesn't this fit the anti woke narrative of "go make your own characters and stories" though? They didn't take an existing property and race swap characters, they didn't include any lgbt issues and they didn't supplant any opportunities for other games by existing. For the anti woke crowd, isn't this game an example of your own requests of the industry?
Yalingo
2024-09-17 08:58:40 +0000 UTCJust got the game on download , was on ps plus aswell .
Niall Harrison
2024-09-17 08:30:44 +0000 UTCThis game was great! I also got the platinum and enjoyed it all the way. Anyone who called this “woke” or pushing an agenda never even played it.
Napoleon in Rags
2024-09-17 06:51:17 +0000 UTCFantastic interview! Shows like these are the reason I support on patreon.
Jose Lopez
2024-09-16 22:30:51 +0000 UTCThis was fantastic. Listening to Abubakar was really insightful and I’d love to hear more from him. Seems like a really intelligent and fascinating dude. Will definitely be checking out this game and excited to see what Abubakar does next
RenegerGraeme
2024-09-16 19:16:54 +0000 UTCGreat conversation. Really looking forward to the follow up episode!
FourEyes Malone
2024-09-16 17:52:57 +0000 UTCGreat interview! I picked up this game on Colin’s recommendation and really loved the game. Would love to see more stories set in Africa that really leans into African culture the way that the yakuza games are unapologetically Japanese.
Christopher Smith
2024-09-16 17:36:52 +0000 UTCAbubakar was lovely in this interview. Glad you’re shining a light on this game, Colin.
Ember's Arcade
2024-09-16 16:47:07 +0000 UTCGot it. Those influencers and outlets aren’t typically on my feed. I just haven’t seen it n
Umkart
2024-09-16 15:28:38 +0000 UTCAwesome interview! I will be buying this game.
Omar Rosa
2024-09-16 14:27:08 +0000 UTCWhat an empowering yet heartbreaking interview
Dain
2024-09-16 13:43:43 +0000 UTCBecause this game was connected to SBI and the fact is has an all black cast was enough for a lot of people to dismiss this game. If you check the social pages of all the ''usual anti-woke influencers''. All of them made content about this game, even though there was nothing woke about it. Which can mean just 2 things. At best they didn't do their due diligence, and just assumed this game belonged in the culture war because it's connection to SBI. But were to lazy to actually play it. And at worst they were just being racist, which means anytime they call anything woke it should be called into question.
Dennis
2024-09-16 13:31:26 +0000 UTCAgree that Kenzera Zau was a unique and great metroidvania. Looking forward to seeing what they do next!
Michael Limauro
2024-09-16 13:08:08 +0000 UTCOh, it's that guy oh wow, I liked that show. And he's in House of Dragon? I got some TV to watch
KillwinDie
2024-09-16 08:10:11 +0000 UTCShe definitely knows Colin but idk how friendly they are. I know she's chill with Chris tho. I feel like a collaboration could happen if they had reason to.
Clit Yeastwood (the artist formerly known as Phallic Boldween)
2024-09-16 07:00:41 +0000 UTCI wish Alanah would appear on LSM but I doubt it since she’s close to the Kinda Funny and Rooster Teeth crowd. I think she and Colin could have fascinating conversations
Gabriel Baker
2024-09-16 06:49:55 +0000 UTCFantastic interview! I’m gonna go check this game out now
Jeremy Tan
2024-09-16 06:14:32 +0000 UTCThis was excellent. I already bought the game on Colin’s strong recommendation and to some extent to spite the ignorant haters, but hadn’t gotten to it yet. This discussion was really compelling about the game itself, and I agree that it’s truly sad that it has been tainted with that nonsense. I will move it up on my list and do my best to experience it on its own terms and forget the noise.
Mike R
2024-09-16 01:53:41 +0000 UTCOne of the most productive and interesting sacred symbols + eps in awhile. Well done!
Jeece
2024-09-16 00:48:29 +0000 UTCSeriously fantastic episode. I loved Abubakar Salim ever since I saw him as Father in Raised By Wolves. He is fantastic in House of the Dragon. I loved the quote about grief and metroidvania games. Please do more interviews like this.
William Harding
2024-09-16 00:17:40 +0000 UTCGreat episode. I had not heard of the game until Colin mentioned it and after listening to this episode I picked it up on PSN. I can’t wait to get to it! Abubakar’s story and passion really resonated with me. Thanks again!
Brett Altmiller
2024-09-15 23:50:51 +0000 UTCAbubakar Salim co-host a monthly podcast on Alanah Preace's YouTube channel, if anyone wants to hear more of this dude. He always has very interesting perspectives & seems really passionate about gaming.
Clit Yeastwood (the artist formerly known as Phallic Boldween)
2024-09-15 20:23:50 +0000 UTCI agree they should put this out on free feeds. This was a great conversation, & kinda a unique interview for the gaming space these days. Could do some good having this out there for more people to hear.
Clit Yeastwood (the artist formerly known as Phallic Boldween)
2024-09-15 20:17:08 +0000 UTCHonestly, this should be out out free feeds as soon as possible. People need to hear this.
Hozi
2024-09-15 17:17:57 +0000 UTCWhat an amazing show Salim comes across as a really nice guy who is open minded and honest. Downloaded the game and will be playing it tonight. Thanks Colin this was the best interview you’ve done on SS+ especially as he seems willinh to talk about everything he can brilliant man.
Garry
2024-09-15 16:00:43 +0000 UTCGreat conversation. So excited at the potential of hearing this guy go in depth on his ideas of about games in the future
Benji_B2sick
2024-09-15 15:46:59 +0000 UTCYou are a npc with no actual personal opinion and only used as a tool for cultural warriors.
Breno Bezerra Bluhm
2024-09-15 14:39:57 +0000 UTCThis dude is great.
Kenneth Koepnick
2024-09-15 14:16:12 +0000 UTCDude Abubakar…what a beautiful human, this was a very touching episode. It is refreshing to have something that resonates on an emotional level beyond the usual chicanery/humor/nihilism, even when those are always welcome and ever present.
Tom Gentry
2024-09-15 13:48:44 +0000 UTCLoved this. Platinumed the game as well and thought it was a solid Metroidvania. The culture-war non-troversy around the game is ridiculous and I’m sad it got buried in the BS because of disingenuous and misinformed actors.
Evan
2024-09-15 11:23:09 +0000 UTCDownloaded the game because honestly up until you mentioned it about a month ago, I never even heard of it. What a Gem of a metriodvania. And once it goes off Extra, come pay day, I’ll buy it to show my support. People that have been making culture war clickbait videos about this title DEFINITELY have not even played it.
Jamie Milligan
2024-09-15 09:13:24 +0000 UTCWeirdo.
Madsines
2024-09-15 09:00:09 +0000 UTCThis might be one of the best episodes of SS+, truly. Loved hearing Abubakar talk about the game and hear his thoughts on the noise that plagues it. Will be buying and playing it once I get my next paycheck.
SpectreBull
2024-09-15 06:24:46 +0000 UTCDownloading the game right now.
Dante B
2024-09-15 04:23:30 +0000 UTCGoing to save the last few mins of this till I've beaten Zau, but gotta say this has become one of my favourite episodes of SS+. Just all round great discussion, and exactly what games discourse needs more of. Would be awesome to see Abubakar back at some point!
JoshM
2024-09-15 03:38:57 +0000 UTCSolid ep. Glad to see Abubakar is as chill as he seemed. His moment at The Game Awards was touching. Also, he’s dope in HOTD. Hope to see him back for sure.
NeO JD
2024-09-15 02:09:52 +0000 UTCAgreed, it would be great to have a developer “war stories” SS+ every quarter or something.
Jimmy G
2024-09-15 01:14:02 +0000 UTCReally loved this episode. Such a great discussion. This has made me interested in picking up the game.
Cameron Sturre
2024-09-15 01:13:15 +0000 UTCThat was an awesome interview. I’d expect nothing less from SS+
Special Needs Cannon
2024-09-15 00:47:48 +0000 UTCI really enjoyed listening to Mr. Salim. Metroidvanias aren't usually my thing, but I might have to check this game out.
Adam Razak
2024-09-14 23:43:29 +0000 UTCFantastic interview! His description of a ‘parenting rogue’ VG tickled the creative side of my brain. 👏
Directional Joy
2024-09-14 23:37:57 +0000 UTCNo clue how you can listen to this entire episode (which you probably didn’t listen to at all since you commented this) and come to this conclusion of all things. You’re mad over a boogeyman that doesn’t exist.
Noah
2024-09-14 23:29:25 +0000 UTCIt’s too bad that the people who’d get the most out of this interview will be least likely to listen. If you hate Sweet Baby Inc. this is worth your time.
Jimmy G
2024-09-14 23:12:09 +0000 UTCLoved the episode and agree that this game got caught in the crossfire of the culture war unfairly. As much as I liked it I look forward to a more in depth episode about the game and metroidvania's. Abubakar has really interesting thoughts on the level design of his game and I can't wait for you two to explore that more.
Tyler Andersen
2024-09-14 23:05:04 +0000 UTCAmazing interview. Can't wait till he comes back
Deathspank
2024-09-14 22:44:49 +0000 UTCAwesome actor, and a very friendly guy. Great get Colin.
Your Boi Nicky V
2024-09-14 20:49:14 +0000 UTCI don’t understand the narrative Colin seems to think is being used by the games and social media against the game. I guess I’ll watch and find out as it has never been clear what his point is.
Umkart
2024-09-14 20:45:35 +0000 UTCThis was good shit man
Bogey
2024-09-14 20:35:55 +0000 UTCSeek help and touch a healthy dose of grass.
Logan
2024-09-14 19:48:40 +0000 UTCOh my God I saw Colin's eye twitch when Salim laughed about not wanting to play side scrollers forever he has no idea the dangerous waters he was treading in 🤣
Zac Lebeau
2024-09-14 19:40:47 +0000 UTCPlease stop being exploited by cultural war propagandists who want you to waste your time being obsessed abt DEI. None of this impacts your life. It is a scapegoat and a distraction. Get help.
Jose
2024-09-14 19:11:22 +0000 UTCThis is one of the best SS+ episodes ever. Such an important, multifaceted discussion. I will absolutely be buying Tales of Kanzera and hope Abubakar returns to the show sooner rather than later!
Noah Teuber
2024-09-14 18:27:30 +0000 UTCAdding this to my backlog. Hope to play it soon :)
Diddy’s Dong Quest
2024-09-14 18:14:14 +0000 UTCYou guys are deranged
Pianopower
2024-09-14 18:11:22 +0000 UTCSo good!
Noah Friscopp
2024-09-14 18:04:36 +0000 UTCThis just makes DEI look cool and good
Definitely Stephanie
2024-09-14 18:04:35 +0000 UTCHe lied to your face, Colin. British governement site business search: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/14831091/officers "Bebe Sucre Ltd" from French is "Sugar Baby Ltd" or "Sweet Baby Ltd." One of Bebe Sucre Ltd's directors is Salim, Abubakar Ali - creator of Tales of Kenzera: Zau. Another one of Bebe Sucre Ltd's directors is one Belair, Kimberly Ann...co-founder of Sweet Baby Inc. The game is a SBI creation, born of DEI. Abubakar Salim is one of them. Colin got taken for a ride.
Rufián
2024-09-14 17:55:50 +0000 UTCBest episode of Sacred+ in a long time, always love the interviews. Definitely going to download this game now
Stevie Walnuts
2024-09-14 17:53:10 +0000 UTCThe emotional and deeper description about Metroidvanias blew my mind. I'm playing through the new Castlevania collection and this feeling rings so true. They're at their hardest in the beginning and only get more manageable.
Shadi Haddad
2024-09-14 17:27:36 +0000 UTCHe ate the ending 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
ShinyRyuji
2024-09-14 17:27:36 +0000 UTCSo…Dustborn spoiler cast with the two of you?
Zachary Beach
2024-09-14 17:15:32 +0000 UTCFinally something helpful to put out in the wild!
Robbie Agnew
2024-09-14 16:53:44 +0000 UTCwell I have to get this game now
Trevor Myers
2024-09-14 16:50:34 +0000 UTCI'm currently 20 minutes into this conversation and it has me feeling very emotional. It's been years and years of absolutely exhausting culture war conversations in every avenue of life and to hear two people talk in an honest, nuanced way is so refreshing. Can't wait to finish but this is fantastic. Stellar work, Colin.
Joe Cross
2024-09-14 16:26:20 +0000 UTCTales of Kanzera is amazing, everyone who enjoys Metroid-vanias should play it. Thank you Mr. Salim for the game.
Hashim Barakat
2024-09-14 16:21:49 +0000 UTCBayek of Siwa might be the greatest video game character of all time. Excited to listen!
No Relaxation without Taxation
2024-09-14 16:09:34 +0000 UTC
