What's Happening?
Midsummer Studios, co-founded by former XCOM designer Jake Solomon, is closing its doors. The announcement was made by Solomon, who served as the CEO and creative director, through a social media post where he shared pre-alpha footage of the studio's unreleased game, Burbank. Solomon expressed pride in the studio's achievements, stating that the game was a dream realized by the team. He clarified that while AI was used for character performances, all art was created by human artists, emphasizing that there was no intention to replace developers with AI. Midsummer Studios was established in 2024 by Solomon, alongside ex-Firaxis lead designer Will Miller and financial expert Nelsie Birch. The studio had raised $6 million in funding from various
investors, including Transcend Fund and Betaworks Ventures.
Why It's Important?
The closure of Midsummer Studios highlights the challenges faced by independent game developers in a competitive industry. Despite securing significant funding and having experienced leadership, the studio's inability to bring its game to market underscores the difficulties in sustaining operations and achieving commercial success. This development may impact stakeholders, including investors and employees, who had vested interests in the studio's success. Additionally, the use of AI in game development, as demonstrated by Midsummer Studios, reflects a growing trend in the industry, raising questions about the balance between technological innovation and traditional artistry.
