The good news is that Maxis is developing a PC exclusive, and it’s a ‘big project’, but what does this mean for SimCity? Are they committing to a sequel or another IP?
Maybe SimTower will get a second chance at life, or maybe even SimFarm? There are always fields needing pesticide and Farmers Markets needing fresh produce.
”Our Maxis Emeryville studio is seeking you as our Director of Product Development or Senior Development Director on a new AAA PC game! This project represents a critical piece of Maxis’ strategy for growth and requires a leader who can pull from his experience, energy and creativity to attack new challenges,” reads the EA Careers post.
”Reporting to the Studio GM, you will have a unique opportunity to join the studio’s leadership staff and lead a newly formed team within Maxis. As Director or Product Development for this new game, you will be in charge of defining development strategy and successfully managing it to quality, time and budget goals.”
The only other big IP that Maxis has handled recently would be Spore, which didn’t live up to its initial premise of evolving lifeforms and birthing intelligent civilisations. If there’s a return to SimCity so soon then hopefully Maxis have paid attention to all the criticisms of the no-longer-always-online SimCity 5.
”We are looking for a professional with in-depth knowledge of game development acquired by having led the delivery of AAA and/or mobile game franchises. This role requires highly developed relationship building skills, the ability to build credibility and influence within and outside the Studio,” continued the description.
For the sake of the community, and Maxis’ reputation, we all hope they continue patching SimCity. Fortunately the SimCity modding community is thriving and new additions are trickling in regularly.
