Veteran Developers from XCOM and The Sims Launch Midsummer Studios
A powerhouse team of veteran developers from renowned games like Sid Meiers Civilization, XCOM, and The Sims have come together to launch Midsummer Studios. Spearheaded by Creative Director Jake Solomon and Game Director Will Miller, both formerly of Firaxis Games, alongside COO/CFO Nelsie Birch, the studio aims to revolutionize the Life Sim genre with a next-gen entry that emphasizes player-driven narratives.
Midsummer Studios, bolstered by $6 million in funding from prominent investors such as Transcend Fund, Tirta Ventures, Betaworks Ventures, 1Up Ventures, F4 Fund, Krafton, and Day Zero Productions, plans to offer players the tools to create and share meaningful stories. The co-founders shared a glimpse of their unannounced debut project, a next-gen Life Sim designed to foster community-driven narratives and creativity.
“The best stories in games are written by the players,” said Jake Solomon, CEO and Creative Director of Midsummer Studios. “At Midsummer we are 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.”
Shanti Bergel, Founding Partner at Transcend, expressed excitement about the project. “Leading the Seed for Midsummer was a natural fit for Transcend. As a Producer on The Sims nearly twenty years ago, I understand the power of meaningful player-driven stories. 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.”
Talent and Vision
The new studio has already attracted acclaimed talent, including Grant Rodiek, who brings 18 years of experience from Maxis Studios as a Producer and Director on The Sims series. Jake Solomon, with 23 years at Firaxis Games, was the Designer and Director of the XCOM franchise and Marvels Midnight Suns. Will Miller, with 16 years at Firaxis, served as Lead Designer of Civilization Beyond Earth and Lead Engineer on Marvels Midnight Suns. Nelsie Birch, while new to the gaming industry, has over two decades of experience in financial and operational leadership for cities and counties.
Midsummer Studios is committed to growing sustainably, focusing on the health and happiness of their team members by offering shared equity and unlimited paid time off.
