Key Takeaways
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- Midsummer Studios, founded by veterans from notable game franchises like Sid Meiers Civilization, XCOM, and The Sims, is ceasing operations after less than two years.
- The studios closure strongly suggests that the game they were developing, Burbank, an AI-powered life simulator blending elements of The Sims and The Truman Show, will not be completed or released.
- Despite the projects likely cancellation, cofounder and creative director Jake Solomon views the development of Burbank as a personal success and is proud to have seen his dream realized.
- The closure of Midsummer Studios will affect the 14 individuals who made up the team, including three founders and eleven employees.
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Midsummer Studios, founded in May 2024 by veterans of games like Sid Meier’s Civilization, XCOM, and The Sims, announced on February 19, 2026, that it will be ceasing operations. The studio, which secured over $6 million in investment, will close less than two years after its founding. Cofounder and creative director Jake Solomon announced the news on X, sharing pre-alpha footage of Burbank, the game Midsummer Studios was developing. Solomon described the experience of developing his dream game as an “incredible” success. “We built a studio, we made a game, and I’m really proud of both,” Solomon wrote. “Before we close the doors at Midsummer Studios, I’d like to share a glimpse of Burbank, the game we poured our hearts into. It’s like Life Sims meets The Truman Show, but it’s more than that. I believe people are…” According to GamesRadar, Burbank was conceived as an AI-powered life simulator, blending elements of The Sims with the narrative intrigue of The Truman Show. In a 2024 interview with PC Gamer, Solomon noted that the game used AI to manage character memory, reasoning, and interactions. The studio’s closure strongly suggests that Burbank will not be completed or released.
Closure of Midsummer Studios Affects Team, Solomon Sees Personal Success in Burbank Development
In 2024, PC Gamer reported that Midsummer comprised 14 individuals: three founders and eleven employees. These individuals will likely be affected by the studio’s closure. Despite the project’s likely cancellation, Solomon views the development of Burbank as a personal success, stating that he is proud to have seen his dream realized.
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