Game designer Jake Solomon has announced the closure of his studio, Midsummer, which was developing a unique game titled Burbank. This "Life Sims + The Truman Show" concept allows players to direct TV shows by picking characters and creating their storylines. Solomon expressed pride in his team's work and hopes to share this innovative project with others despite the studio's closure. The game employs AI to enhance character interactions, making it an intriguing choice for potential players looking for an engaging storytelling experience.
What is the gameplay concept behind Burbank?Burbank allows players to create and control TV-like storylines featuring customizable characters, choosing their motivations and scenarios while watching how they react in real-time. The game's innovative use of AI helps bring players' stories to life.
Jake Solomon is known for his impactful work on popular games like XCOM and Marvel's Midnight Suns. Midsummer Studios was his venture to explore new ideas after his departure from Firaxis Games. Burbank represents his vision of merging life simulation with storytelling, encouraging players to become creators rather than mere spectators, similar to the engaging elements found in titles like Lionhead's The Movies.
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Man, it's always a bummer when a fresh idea from a veteran dev gets shelved. Here's hoping that AI-driven storytelling concept finds its way into players' hands someday.
It's a shame to see such a creative concept hit a roadblock, especially from a designer with Solomon's track record. The blend of AI-driven storytelling and player direction sounds like it could have been a real game-changer for the sim genre.