Midway Studios Austin
Midway Studios Austin was an American video game development studio based in Austin, Texas. The studio was part of Midway Games and was best known for its sci-fi action shooters, particularly the games Area 51 and BlackSite: Area 51.
The studio’s roots trace back to Inevitable Entertainment, which was founded in 2000. Midway Games later acquired the studio and integrated it into its organisation, with the team subsequently operating under the name Midway Studios Austin.
One of its best-known projects is Area 51 from 2005, released for PlayStation 2, Xbox and PC. It is a first-person sci-fi shooter inspired by the legends and conspiracy theories surrounding the secret American base, Area 51.
The main character is specialist Ethan Cole, who, together with his team, is sent to the Area 51 complex, where a dangerous infection is spreading. During their exploration, the player gradually uncovers experiments, alien technologies and other secrets hidden deep beneath the base.
Area 51 also attracted attention for its impressive voice cast. Ethan Cole was voiced by David Duchovny, best known for his role in the TV series The X-Files, whilst other voices included Marilyn Manson and Powers Boothe.
This title was loosely followed by the game BlackSite: Area 51, released in 2007 for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC. Although it utilises the setting and themes associated with Area 51, it presents a new story and new characters.
BlackSite: Area 51 once again combines military action with science fiction, alien technologies and mutants. The player takes on the role of soldier Aeran Pierce, who takes part in operations against an unusual enemy and gradually uncovers the background to the entire conflict.
Alongside the Area 51 series, the studio was also involved in other projects. Its history is closely linked to the period when Midway Games was investing in major console titles and building its own network of development studios.
The situation changed with Midway Games’ financial difficulties. Midway Studios Austin was closed in 2008, i.e. even before Midway Games went into administration and Warner Bros. subsequently acquired some of its brands and studios.
Although the studio operated for a relatively short time, it left behind several titles typical of the PlayStation 2, Xbox, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era. The most notable of these remain Area 51 and BlackSite: Area 51, thanks to which Midway Studios Austin is still primarily associated with sci-fi shooters and the mysterious setting of the legendary Area 51 base.
