New Simulation Game Development Studio Opened By Former
Microsoft Aces Studio Veterans
Cascade Game Foundry, a new game
development studio in Washington, announced their entry into the
simulation marketplace Thursday. An experienced team of industry
pros is poised to create a portfolio of innovative and
engaging products which will appeal to both aficionados and people
new to the genre.
The two founders, Creative Director Rick Selby and Managing
Director Kathie Flood, are no strangers to simulations – both
are former Microsoft Aces Studio leaders and industry
veterans. Not only will Cascade Game Foundry address the
significant hole in the simulation market left by Microsoft’s
recent departure, it will push new boundaries with the latest in
cutting-edge graphics, simulation and web technology.
“The beauty of starting a new studio is that we get to
reconsider all our preconceived notions,” comments Selby, a
former Lead Product Designer at Microsoft. “Our
previous efforts focused on building traditional simulation titles.
However, now we get to redefine what a simulation game can
be. As a designer, that is incredibly
liberating.” From a gameplay standpoint, Cascade Game
Foundry is looking to broaden the market. “The hardcore
simulation fan is the critical foundation, but why stop
there?” says Selby. “We want to deliver unique
experiences that appeal to diverse audiences around the
world.”
Flood, a former Microsoft Senior Program Manager with 15 years
of industry experience, is excited about the possibilities.
“We want to combine the naturally inquisitive nature of the
human spirit with the stunning resources of the planet. The
simulation market is known to be a strong, consistent performer,
but our vision extends beyond flying and railroading,” she
says. “Think of SCUBA diving off Hawaii, traversing the
Andes, hiking the Great Wall of China … the possibilities
are endless.”
Selby and Flood are joined by a number of other former Aces
members and game industry veterans. “We have an incredible
team lined up across all disciplines,” adds Flood.
“Every person has numerous years of professional experience
and a proven track record of delivering multi-million-selling
titles. “We see this as a wonderful opportunity to
reinvigorate the simulation market with a quantum step forward and
our products will convey that sense of passion, fun and excitement
that we have always had for the genre.”
“If you love simulations, the news is going to get better
and better,” hints Selby.
Cascade Game Foundry, LLC is hard at work on the design and demo
for their first project.