Coconut Lizard welcomes Ben Pearson, Associate QA Tester to the team!

Tell us a bit of information about your experience/career background?

After leaving school, I went on to study Interactive Media at college. Whilst I enjoyed studying this, I always felt that I wanted to spend time working within the armed forces which I went on to do.

I spent five years within the armed forces where I travelled the world and met some amazing people. Since leaving the armed forces in 2020, I struggled to settle down in a new career path due to pandemic, with my most recent role working as a lift engineer which I had done for the past two years.

However, working and having a career within the games industry has always been something that I have been keen to undertake, and I am excited to get started!

Why Coconut Lizard?

I first discovered Coconut Lizard and their sister studio d3t when they worked on the remake of Shenmue. Since then, I have continued to follow and look into the studios more alongside the different roles and careers available.

What I saw from the studio’s social media channels and from all of the awards they have won, is that it looked like an amazing place to work! An aspect which was certainly confirmed during my interview process where everyone I met was extremely welcoming.

What do you love about games?

I love the combination of creativity and storytelling which then allows you to escape into a new world. I also like how challenging and rewarding games can be.

I love being part of the gaming community and being able to dive into a game with my friends online or playing some old school couch co-op. Gaming for me is more than just playing a game it’s the memories, experiences and emotions that come with it. I still feel sad when I think of Dom’s wife in Gears of War 2 and the excitement I felt when I saw the Final Fantasy 7 remake announced! Oh and I also love a good soundtrack.

What games are you currently playing, and what is your favourite game?

I am currently playing Bloodborne and Teardown on the PS5. I mostly play single player games these days with the exception of Hell Let Loose. I enjoy most types of genres and I love to discover unique indie games.

My favourite game of all time is difficult to say, but if I had to it would either be Donkey Kong Country for the SNES or Final Fantasy 7 - the original and remake!

Do you have any fun facts or hobbies?

I enjoy playing and watching football and taking part in open water swimming. I meet a few friends for gaming nights playing anything from Magic the Gathering to D&D. I enjoy a good movie especially anything by Studio Ghibli. I also enjoy just having chilled weekends with my daughter.