Rare's Everwild: Still in Development, According to Xbox Boss
Over five years after its initial announcement at Microsoft's X019 event, the status of Rare's Everwild remains a topic of discussion. The game's absence from subsequent Xbox showcases and circulating reboot rumors have fueled speculation about its fate. However, Xbox head Phil Spencer has confirmed that Everwild is still actively in development.
In a recent interview with XboxEra, Spencer expressed his excitement for Everwild, highlighting a recent visit to Rare's UK studio to assess the game's progress. He mentioned Everwild alongside other anticipated titles, emphasizing the time afforded to developers, even amidst Microsoft's busy release schedule, enhanced by acquisitions like Bethesda and Activision Blizzard. Spencer's statement underscores Microsoft's commitment to providing development teams with the necessary time and resources.
The development of Everwild has faced challenges, including a denied reboot rumor and the departure of creative director Simon Woodroffe in 2020. However, veteran designer Gregg Mayles, known for his work on titles such as Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Pinata, and Sea of Thieves, has since taken the helm.
While initially described as a third-person adventure game with god game elements, the game's extended development period suggests potential shifts in its design. The last trailer, released in July 2020, simply described Everwild as "a brand new IP from Rare. A unique and unforgettable experience await in a natural and magical world."
Everwild joins a substantial roster of games currently under development at Microsoft, including the Perfect Dark reboot, the next Halo installment, Playground Games' new Fable title, Bethesda's The Elder Scrolls 6, and Activision's annual Call of Duty release. This underscores the breadth of Microsoft's gaming portfolio.
