Rare's Everwild: Still in Development, Says Xbox Boss
Over five years after its announcement at Microsoft's X019, Everwild's prolonged absence from Xbox showcases and reboot rumors have fueled speculation about its fate. However, Xbox head Phil Spencer confirms the game is still actively in development.
In a recent interview with XboxEra, Spencer expressed his excitement for Everwild, highlighting a recent visit to Rare Studios in the UK to assess the game's progress. He mentioned Everwild alongside other anticipated titles, emphasizing Microsoft's ability to provide development teams ample time, even with a robust release schedule fueled by acquisitions like Bethesda and Activision Blizzard.
Spencer's comments address concerns stemming from a denied reboot rumor and the departure of creative director Simon Woodroffe in 2020. Veteran designer Gregg Mayles (known for his work on Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Pinata, and Sea of Thieves) has since taken the director's reins.
While early reports described Everwild as a third-person adventure with god game elements, its extended development period suggests potential changes. The last trailer (July 2020) simply described it as "a brand new IP from Rare. A unique and unforgettable experience await in a natural and magical world."
Everwild joins a substantial lineup of Microsoft's upcoming games, including the Perfect Dark reboot, the next Halo installment, Playground's Fable, Bethesda's The Elder Scrolls 6, and Activision's annual Call of Duty release. This underscores Microsoft's commitment to a diverse and expansive gaming portfolio.
