Rare's Everwild Update from Xbox Head

Rare's Everwild: Still in Development, Says Xbox Boss

Over five years after its initial announcement at Microsoft's X019, the fate of Rare's Everwild remains a topic of speculation. Absent from recent Xbox showcases and plagued by reboot rumors, many questioned the game's future. However, Xbox head Phil Spencer recently confirmed its continued development.

In a conversation 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 the studio's dedication, alongside other projects like State of Decay and the next Double Fine title. Spencer emphasized Microsoft's ability to provide development teams ample time, even with a busy release schedule fueled by acquisitions like Bethesda and Activision Blizzard.

The development of Everwild hasn't been without its challenges. Following 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) took the helm.

While initially described as a third-person adventure game with god game elements, the game's prolonged development suggests potential shifts in its design. The last trailer, from July 2020, simply described Everwild as "a brand new IP from Rare. A unique and unforgettable experience awaits in a natural and magical world."

With a vast portfolio of upcoming titles including Perfect Dark, the next Halo installment, Playground Games' Fable, Bethesda's Elder Scrolls 6, and Activision's Call of Duty, Everwild's release date remains undisclosed. However, Spencer's comments offer reassurance to fans eagerly anticipating this enigmatic title.