Jake Solomon is a veteran with over 20 years of experience who is fascinated by what life simulations are up to behind the scenes
The director of XCOM and Marvel’s Midnight Suns wants to make a life simulation game that feels “original” and “authentic.”
Solomon appeared on the ‘My Perfect Console’ podcast last year, shortly after leaving Firaxis, the studio behind XCOM and Marvel’s Midnight Suns, after more than 20 years. The seasoned developer was enthusiastic about the concept of life simulation games, which RockPaperShotgun inquired about at last year’s Game Developer’s Conference.
“Without talking specifically about what it is I want to do, I think that the appeal of life sims is kind of manifold, but I think that, one, it’s just life in miniature, right? From model train sets to doll houses to army men, there’s something about life in miniature that I think is just naturally appealing,” Solomon responded when asked what he enjoys about the genre.
Solomon went on to describe life simulation games as “playful” by nature, inviting and encouraging experimentation. “Simulations can be a lot of fun because they follow these rules that are sometimes hidden from you.” And they can surprise you, and it just feels more authentic,” he added, mentioning Dwarf Fortress as a simulation game that can truly “surprise” players.
When asked if it was player stories from life simulation games that piqued his interest, Solomon responded emphatically in the affirmative. “Everything feels original to you because it’s procedural. And when it feels original, it feels authentic. And it feels shareable. Even if it’s just turning to your partner and saying, ‘You’re never going to believe what just happened!’ Whether it’s Dwarf Fortress, or whether it’s The Sims or whatever it is, simulation can create some really fun experiences,” Solomon added.
Despite this, we still don’t know what Solomon’s next venture will be – the veteran strategy developer hasn’t announced anything since leaving Firaxis last year. In terms of life simulations, The Sims 5 is still on the way, and competitor Life By You will be available in early access later this year.