With the way of the news lately, it’s easy to get bogged down with all the talk around numbers, closures, layoffs, and downsizing (both studios and expectations), but lo’ there’s some positive news in and amongst that noise too.
Today, it was revealed that Jake Solomon, a former designer and director at Firaxis (of XCOM and Marvel’s Midnight Suns fame) has formed a new company, Midsummer Studios, comprised of former Firaxis, and Maxis designers.
Solomon will assume the role of CEO and creative director for Midsummer Studios, and has spoken about the new game they are working on, which has been described as a “next-gen life sim” that will “emphasise player-driven narratives, allowing communities to share memorable moments that grow out of the creativity of players themselves.”
Bringing on board a veteran of “The Sims” series in Grant Rodiek, it’s probably safe to assume we’re going to be getting a well thought out life-sim. That being said, there isn’t much else in the way of details, so we’ll just have to let Midsummer Studios, and its small team of 10 or so folk, cook.
Speaking on the upcoming game, Solomon noted: "The best stories in games are written by the players. At Midsummer we're making a life sim focused on the drama of modern life, where our players will write meaningful stories just by playing, and then share those stories with the world."
Certainly sounds intriguing. I’m not big on life-sims myself, but if there’s an interesting hook I’d certainly have a gander. How about you, are you excited to see what comes from the brand new studio? Let us know in the comments.
