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Former XCOM and The Sims Developers Launching Midsummer Studios to Reinvent Life Sims

Casey Scheld3 weeks ago

After two decades with Firaxis, Jake Solomon and Will Miller are launching Midsummer Studios. 

The studio was formed alongside COO/CFO Nelsie Birch (who possesses 25 years in financial and operations management), launching with $6 million raised from major investors. 

Transcend Fund led this round, joined by Tirta Ventures, Betaworks Ventures, 1Up Ventures, F4 Fund, Krafton, and Day Zero Productions. 

Their first order of business? Reinvent the Life Sim genre. This title will emphasize player-driven narratives, giving communities the chance to share memorable moments that grow out of the creativity of players themselves.

Jake Solomon, CEO and Creative Director of Midsummer Studios, said the following:

“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.” 

Jake Solomon

Shanti Bergel, Founding Partner at Transcend, added:

“Leading the Seed for Midsummer was a natural fit for Transcend. As a Producer on The Sims myself nearly twenty years ago, I am well acquainted with the power that meaningful player-driven stories can unlock. I also have an abiding respect for how hard it is to deliver the alchemy of community, systems design, gameplay, and user generated content necessary to do so. The Midsummer founders are industry veterans with the rare experience and design artistry required to deliver against this massive opportunity. I am delighted to join the board and support their journey to redefine the Life Sim category.”

Shanti Bergel


All those interested can learn more via the official Midsummer Studios website.

Source: Press Release

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Casey Scheld3 weeks ago
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Casey Scheld

Casey Scheld has more than 15 years of experience in the gaming industry as a community manager, social media director, event specialist, and (of course) gaming editor. He has previously worked with gaming start-ups like Raptr, publishers like Konami, and roller derby girls at PAX West (check out Jam City Rollergirls)! Gamers Heroes is a passion project for him, giving him a chance to tap into the underground side of gaming. He is all too eager to give these lesser-known heroes of the indie space the attention they so rightly deserve, seeking out the next gem and sharing it with the world. Previously making appearances at events like CES, GDC, and (the late) E3, he is all too happy to seek out the next big thing. For those that want to talk shop, send over a tip, or get an easy win in a fighting game of their choosing, be sure to check out his social media channels below.

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