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 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. However, Xbox head Phil Spencer recently confirmed the game's 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 project's progress. He mentioned the studio's dedication to Everwild alongside their work on Sea of Thieves, emphasizing the time afforded to developers for key projects. This, he stated, is possible despite Microsoft's extensive release schedule, further boosted by acquisitions such as Bethesda and Activision Blizzard.

Spencer's comments also touched upon the development time given to other titles, including State of Decay and the next project from Double Fine. He highlighted the importance of providing sufficient development time, citing a forthcoming visit to Coalition, the studio behind Gears of War, as an example.

Everwild has faced scrutiny following rumors of a reboot (denied by Microsoft) and the departure of creative director Simon Woodroffe in 2020. The director's role was subsequently filled by veteran designer Gregg Mayles (known for his work on Donkey Kong Country, Banjo-Kazooie, Viva Pinata, and Sea of Thieves).

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

Microsoft's development pipeline is currently extensive, encompassing projects like 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 this, Spencer's comments offer reassurance regarding Everwild's ongoing development.