Jake Solomon
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"I was chomping at the bit to crack the code": How procedural maps became XCOM 2's biggest ambition, after Firaxis couldn't manage it in Enemy Unknown
Firaxis Games initially struggled with procedural map generation for XCOM: Enemy Unknown, opting for handcrafted levels to ensure quality. For XCOM 2, the team prioritized cracking procedural generation, developing a 'plot and parcel' system to create varied and believable maps across different environments. Key figures like Garth DeAngelis, Jake Solomon, Greg Foertsch, and Brian Hess were instrumental in overcoming the technical and design challenges.
Just like XCOM, superhero comedy Dispatch cheats random percentages of success in the player's favor: 'anything that had over a 76% success chance would automatically succeed'
The game Dispatch, developed by AdHoc Studios, employs a mechanic similar to XCOM where random success percentages are subtly manipulated in the player's favor. This approach aims to mitigate the frustration of perceived unfairness from true randomness, though the developers noted that in the finale, these 'invisible helpers' are disabled to increase difficulty.
Highguard's failure is emblematic of something that has tormented videogame investors for years now: past live service hits do not equal future live service hits
The failure of live service games like Highguard highlights a persistent problem for investors: past success does not guarantee future hits. Even experienced developers like those from Apex Legends and major companies like Riot Games and Valve have struggled to replicate live service success, leading to cancellations and layoffs across the industry.
XCOM designer Jake Solomon reveals "Life Sims + The Truman Show" game... while announcing his studio's closure
Midsummer Studios, co-founded by XCOM developer Jake Solomon, is closing down just months after its May 2024 announcement. The studio's debut project, 'Burbank,' described as 'Life Sims + The Truman Show' and featuring generative AI for character interaction, will not be released by the company. Solomon expressed pride in the studio and the game despite the closure.
Jake Solomon-led Midsummer Studios shuts down
Midsummer Studios, founded by Firaxis Games veteran Jake Solomon, has ceased operations after two years. The studio, which raised $6 million in funding, was developing a life simulation game called Burbank. Solomon shared footage of the game, noting its use of AI for character writing and voice acting, while emphasizing that all art was created by human artists.
Former Firaxis Games creative director announces closure of Midsummer Studios
Midsummer Studios, co-founded by former XCOM designer Jake Solomon, is closing its doors. Solomon announced the closure and shared pre-alpha footage of the studio's unreleased game, Burbank. He also clarified that while AI was used for character performances, all art was created by human artists.
