Late this May it was announced that developer Monte Cristo was closing its doors.  Rumors swirled that their game Cities XL would be picked up by another developer/publisher, but until now news has been silent.

Today, however, we have recieved word that Focus Home Interactive has acquired the title, and is working on a new version, Cities XL 2011.

"It's important not to leave Cities XL without a future," declared Cedric Lagarrigue, CEO of Focus Home Interactive. "Though the game may not have reached the ambitious objectives set forth by Monte Cristo, it has been successful in Europe and via online platforms. There's a community that's developed around the game, hopes and expectations that we cannot leave without a future. We are convinced that the game must make its mark and become a reference as promised during the pre-release announcements of the original 2009 game. We will therefore release Cities XL 2011 in October and will do so with the intent to please those who bought the earlier version. Moreover, we are working on a special offer for the game's release which we will soon reveal. As for the other City Builder and management game fans, Cities XL 2011's content, options and features should give them great satisfaction." 

Check out the official website for more information: http://www2.citiesxl.com/