Xbox Boss Phil Spencer Issues Update on Rare’s Long in Development Everwild

Rare's Everwild: Still in Development, According to Xbox Boss

Over five years since its announcement at Microsoft's X019, the fate of Rare's Everwild has been shrouded in uncertainty. Absent from numerous Xbox showcases and plagued by reboot rumors, many questioned its existence. However, Xbox head Phil Spencer recently confirmed its ongoing 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 Double Fine's upcoming title. Spencer emphasized Microsoft's ability to provide development teams ample time, even with a packed release schedule fueled by acquisitions like Bethesda and Activision Blizzard. This allows for focused development without compromising quality.

Everwild's journey has been marked by 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 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 (based on the July 2020 trailer: "Everwild is a brand new IP from Rare. A unique and unforgettable experience awaits in a natural and magical world."), the game's prolonged development suggests potential shifts in its design.

Everwild joins a substantial roster of Microsoft's in-development titles, including the Perfect Dark reboot, the next Halo installment, Playground's Fable, Bethesda's Elder Scrolls 6, Activision's Call of Duty, and id Software's Doom: The Dark Ages (May release). Despite the numerous projects, Spencer's comments reassure fans that Everwild remains a priority for Microsoft and Rare.